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.
I first made this truffle macaroni & cheese for a family celebration, and it quickly became a requested favorite by everyone who loves classic comfort food with a gourmet touch.
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 Baking 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:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Flavorings:
- 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 and Bake:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top and Bake:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni. 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 It was always a special treat growing up when my parents dressed up a simple mac & cheese with fancy cheese blends. The addition of truffle oil now makes it extra memorable for our holiday dinners.
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 review cheese and truffle oil packaging.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 590, Total Fat 32 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 24 g
Save This luxurious truffle mac & cheese is simple enough for weeknights but special enough for entertaining. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy bite!
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni works perfectly as it holds the creamy sauce well, but small shells or cavatappi can be good alternatives.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used in the sauce?
Yes, Gruyère can be swapped with Fontina or Emmental for a different but equally smooth cheese flavor.
- → How much truffle oil should be used?
1½ tablespoons of truffle oil is used in the sauce, with more optionally drizzled on top to enhance the aroma before serving.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then sprinkle evenly over the pasta before baking to get a golden, crunchy crust.
- → Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?
Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving contributes a fresh finish.