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 recipe for a special family dinner, everyone raved about the unique flavor and rich, silky cheese sauce. Even self-proclaimed mac & cheese purists came back for seconds. Sharing this dish makes regular weeknights feel like celebrations.
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 Baking Dish:
- 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.
- Add Cheese and Flavor:
- 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.
- Fill Baking 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.
- Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save This dish instantly takes me back to cozy winter nights gathered as a family, sharing warm servings of truffle macaroni & cheese straight from the oven. These are the flavorful moments we still reminisce about.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, large pot, whisk, baking dish, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information
Each serving includes: Calories 590, Total Fat 32 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 24 g
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or pair with your favorite white wine such as Chardonnay for a restaurant-worthy meal at home.
Save A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and a fresh finish. Make extra—this truffle mac & cheese disappears quickly!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as its shape holds the cheese sauce well, but similar small tubular pastas can also be used.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses used?
Yes, Gruyère can be swapped for Fontina or Emmental for varied flavor profiles without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How is truffle oil incorporated?
Truffle oil is stirred into the cheese sauce and optionally drizzled on top after baking for an aromatic finish.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy topping?
Combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then bake until golden and crunchy.
- → Are there recommended pairings for this dish?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements the creamy, earthy flavors beautifully.