Save Pin 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 truffle macaroni & cheese was for a cozy family dinner. The aroma of truffle oil drifting from the oven had everyone excited to dig in, and it quickly became one of our favorite indulgent meals.
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.
- Prepare 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 macaroni and sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble in baking dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Make 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 Pin This recipe is a favorite at our family gatherings, and even the kids love its creamy texture and subtle truffle aroma.
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 product labels if you have sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 590 calories, 32 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, 24 g protein
Save Pin This truffle macaroni and cheese makes any meal feel extra special. Serve it hot for maximum creaminess and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal due to its shape that holds sauce well, but small pasta like shells or cavatappi can be used too.
- → How does truffle oil affect the flavor?
Truffle oil adds a rich, earthy aroma that enhances the cheese mixture without overpowering the dish.
- → Can I substitute the kind of cheese used?
Yes, Gruyère can be swapped with Fontina or Emmental for different flavor profiles while maintaining creaminess.
- → What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in the sauce?
Dijon mustard adds subtle tang and depth that balances the richness of the cheeses and cream.
- → How should I achieve the crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then bake until golden and bubbling for crunchy texture contrast.
- → Is it better to add extra truffle oil before serving?
Adding a few drops just before serving brightens the earthy aroma and flavor without overwhelming the dish.