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 macaroni and cheese for my friends, everyone was amazed by the decadent flavors. The truffle oil really transforms the dish into something special for any occasion.
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 and 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.
- Make cheese sauce:
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add cheeses and seasoning:
- 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.
- Transfer mixture:
- 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 finish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around the table when I bake this macaroni and cheese. It always brings smiles and requests for seconds.
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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 590, Total Fat 32 g, Carbohydrates 52 g, Protein 24 g
Save Enjoy your luxurious mac and cheese hot for maximum creaminess and beautiful aroma. Pair with a crisp white wine for a memorable meal.
Cooking Guide
- → What cheeses are best for this dish?
Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan provide a balanced, rich flavor and smooth melt for the sauce.
- → How does truffle oil affect the taste?
Truffle oil adds an earthy, aromatic depth that elevates the creamy cheese base with subtle complexity.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, this version uses dairy cheeses and butter without any meat products, suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- → How to get a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, then bake until golden for a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- → Can I add other ingredients for variation?
Adding sautéed mushrooms or swapping cheeses like Fontina can provide different textures and flavor dimensions.