Save to Pinterest 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.
Macaroni & cheese has always been a family favorite, but adding truffle oil transforms it into a true showstopper for special occasions or just a cozy night in.
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
- Prep Oven and 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 Base:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Milk and Thicken:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 – 4 minutes.
- Finish Cheese Sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer to Dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping:
- 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 and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save to Pinterest My kids always ask for seconds whenever I make this! The crunchy topping always makes it a hit at family gatherings.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains milk, wheat, and possibly mustard. Always check cheese and truffle oil packaging for cross-contamination risks if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 24 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This truffle macaroni & cheese is sure to become your new comfort favorite — creamy, cheesy, and simply unforgettable.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other kinds of cheese?
Absolutely! Gruyère can be swapped for Fontina or Emmental, or mix your favorite cheeses for unique flavor.
- → Is truffle oil essential for the dish?
Truffle oil lends distinct aroma but you can omit it or use less if preferred. The cheese blend and sauce will still shine.
- → How do I get a crunchy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then bake until golden and bubbling for perfect crunch.
- → Can I add vegetables or proteins?
Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cooked chicken work well as additional ingredients for extra depth and texture.
- → What's the best pasta for this dish?
Elbow macaroni holds the sauce nicely, but shells or cavatappi also make excellent substitutes.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish contains dairy but no meat, making it a flavorful vegetarian option.