Save A decadent twist on the classic comfort food, this creamy macaroni and cheese is elevated with aromatic truffle oil and a blend of luxurious cheeses.
I first tasted truffle mac & cheese at a restaurant and was blown away by how extravagant comfort food can be. Making it at home lets you customize every detail, and it always impresses guests.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 500 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 120 g (1 cup) grated Gruyère cheese, 120 g (1 cup) grated sharp white cheddar cheese, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1½ tbsp truffle oil (plus more for drizzling)
- Topping: 60 g (½ cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Mix in Cheese & Flavorings:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruy`re, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer & Add Topping:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save I love making this dish for special occasions because it always draws big smiles from my family. It’s one of those meals that gets everyone gathering around the table for seconds.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and may contain mustard. Check cheese and truffle oil labels for allergens or cross-contamination if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 590, Total Fat 32 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 24 g
Save Serve immediately for best creaminess and flavor. Enjoy this elegant comfort dish as a main or a decadent side.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute Gruyère cheese?
Yes, Fontina or Emmental are excellent alternatives for a different flavor profile in the cheese sauce.
- → How do I enhance the truffle flavor?
Add a few drops of truffle oil just before serving for a more pronounced aroma and taste.
- → Which wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Chardonnay complements the creamy, rich flavors of the macaroni and cheese.
- → Can I add vegetables to the macaroni?
Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms or spinach work well, adding an earthy note to the dish.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly, but check cheese and truffle oil labels for animal-derived ingredients.
- → What should I do if I want a crunchier topping?
Increase the amount of panko breadcrumbs and bake a few minutes longer for extra crunch.