Pin it 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.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my family for special occasions, thanks to its creamy texture and gourmet flavor.
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 Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook Macaroni:
- 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.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Mix 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:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer to Dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare 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.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Pin it This dish is always a hit during family dinners, sparking warm memories and requests for seconds.
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch or sprinkle with extra fresh herbs for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
Pin it This truffle macaroni and cheese is sure to impress both guests and family with its rich and luxurious flavor.
Common Questions
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni holds the creamy sauce well, but small tubular or shell pasta can be good alternatives.
- → How can I intensify the truffle flavor?
Adding a few drops of truffle oil just before serving enhances the aroma and richness.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used here?
Gruyère can be swapped for Fontina or Emmental to alter the cheese profile while keeping creaminess.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then bake until golden and bubbling for optimal crunch.
- → Is there a way to add more earthy flavors?
Sautéed mushrooms incorporated into the dish bring an additional earthy note complementing the truffle.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Chardonnay balances the richness and enhances the overall flavor experience.