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.
Every time I make this dish, it instantly brings warmth and a touch of indulgence to our dinner table. The first time I tried truffle oil in mac and cheese, it became an instant family favorite and a frequent request for special occasions.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 350 g (12 oz)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp for sauce + 1 tbsp melted for topping
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Gruyère cheese, grated: 120 g (1 cup)
- Sharp white cheddar cheese, grated: 120 g (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 60 g (½ cup) for sauce + 2 tbsp for topping
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Sea salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Truffle oil: 1½ tbsp (plus more for drizzling)
- Panko breadcrumbs: 60 g (½ cup)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook macaroni:
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Make cheese sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine macaroni and sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble in baking dish:
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Mix and add topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and finish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around the table as the aroma of truffle oil wafts through the kitchen. Sharing this gooey, decadent mac and cheese always sparks smiles and laughter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this truffle macaroni & cheese on its own, or pair it with a crisp green salad or a light vegetable side for a balanced meal.
Customize Your Mac & Cheese
For an earthy flavor boost, add sautéed mushrooms or try swapping Gruyère for Fontina or Emmental. You can also mix in caramelized onions or roasted garlic for extra depth.
Nutritional Info
Each serving contains approximately 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 24 g protein.
Save This truffle macaroni & cheese is a true crowd-pleaser – creamy, fragrant, and unforgettable for any gathering.
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What types of cheese are used in this dish?
Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses combine to create a rich, creamy sauce with depth and complexity.
- → How does truffle oil enhance the flavor?
Truffle oil adds an earthy, aromatic note that elevates the creamy cheese sauce, bringing gourmet character to the dish.
- → Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, the ingredients listed are vegetarian-friendly, focusing on dairy and plant-based components.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy topping?
Mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan creates a crunchy, golden crust when baked.
- → Are there suitable ingredient substitutions?
Gruyère can be replaced with Fontina or Emmental for a different cheese profile, and mushrooms can be added for an earthy touch.