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.
The first time I made truffle macaroni & cheese, my whole kitchen was filled with an incredible aroma. I loved seeing everyone’s faces light up at the first creamy bite, instantly knowing this wasn’t an ordinary mac & cheese—truffle oil truly makes it unforgettable.
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
- Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat 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 Roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Form Cheese Sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3 to 4 minutes).
- Add Cheeses & Flavor:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until melted and smooth.
- Combine & Assemble:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Topping:
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until top is golden and bubbling.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save This truffle mac & cheese quickly became a favorite at family gatherings, with my kids asking for second helpings and my partner always requesting it for birthday dinners. Sharing it has become a cozy tradition in our home.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this luxurious mac & cheese as a main course or serve alongside a crisp salad. It pairs especially well with a glass of chilled Chardonnay.
Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to add sauteed mushrooms for earthiness, or substitute Gruyère with Fontina for a milder flavor. For extra crunch, use homemade toasted breadcrumbs for the topping.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Save This truffle macaroni & cheese is guaranteed to elevate any meal, delighting both kids and adults. Serve hot and watch the compliments roll in.
Kitchen Guide
- → How can I enhance the truffle flavor?
Add a few extra drops of truffle oil just before serving to intensify the aroma and taste.
- → What cheeses are best for this dish?
Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan blend to create a rich, balanced cheese sauce with depth.
- → Can I add other ingredients to the dish?
Sautéed mushrooms make an earthy addition, complementing the truffle and cheese perfectly.
- → What type of pasta should I use?
Elbow macaroni works best for its shape and ability to hold the creamy cheese sauce well.
- → Is there a recommended cooking technique for the sauce?
Cook the roux carefully, then whisk in milk gradually to achieve a smooth, thickened cheese sauce.
- → How do I achieve a crunchy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly before baking until golden.