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 this dish, my friends were amazed by the rich, earthy taste truffle oil added to familiar macaroni and cheese. It's always a requested favorite at potlucks.
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 Oven & 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 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.
- Add Cheese & Truffle Oil:
- 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 & Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble:
- 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.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save My family loves sharing this luxurious comfort dish during movie nights. It's become our go-to treat for celebrations and cozy evenings at home.
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. Always check cheese and truffle oil labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 24 g protein.
Save Savor every creamy, truffle-infused bite and impress your guests with this upscale comfort classic.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How does truffle oil influence the flavor?
Truffle oil imparts an earthy, aromatic richness that elevates the creamy cheese base, adding depth and a subtle luxury to the dish.
- → Can I substitute the cheese blend?
Yes, Gruyère can be swapped with Fontina or Emmental to vary the taste while maintaining a creamy texture.
- → What is the best pasta choice for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal due to its shape, allowing it to hold the cheese sauce well and provide a satisfying bite.
- → How to achieve a crunchy topping?
Mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then baking until golden, creates a crisp contrast to the creamy base.
- → Can I enhance the dish with additional ingredients?
Adding sautéed mushrooms introduces an earthy dimension that complements the truffle and cheese flavors.