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 truffle macaroni & cheese, it instantly became a family favorite with its irresistible combination of silky sauce and savory flavor. It's both special enough for entertaining and easy enough for a weeknight treat.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp for sauce, 1 tbsp melted for topping
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Gruyère cheese: 120 g (1 cup) grated
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: 120 g (1 cup) grated
- Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup) grated for sauce, 2 tbsp grated for topping
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
- Sea salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
- Truffle oil: 1½ tbsp (plus more for drizzling)
- Panko breadcrumbs: 60 g (½ cup)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Prep the dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook the pasta:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the milk:
- Gradually whisk in 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 cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add cooked macaroni to sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble:
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Make the topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake 15–18 minutes, until top is golden and bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Finish and serve:
- Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save Whenever I serve this at family gatherings, everyone fights over the crispy corners and creamy middle. It always disappears quickly, leaving only memories of cheesy goodness and laughter.
Variations
Try swapping Gruyère with Fontina or Emmental for a new cheese flavor, or add some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect on its own or paired with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Save Make this truffle macaroni & cheese for a cozy night in or to impress your guests. Every bite is pure culinary luxury!
Recipe FAQ
- → What cheeses are used for the sauce?
Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses create a rich, flavorful blend in the sauce.
- → How does truffle oil affect the flavor?
Truffle oil adds an earthy, aromatic richness that elevates the traditional cheese sauce with a luxurious twist.
- → Can I substitute the pasta type?
Elbow macaroni is traditional for texture, but similar pasta shapes like cavatappi or shells work well too.
- → What is the purpose of panko breadcrumbs on top?
Panko creates a crunchy, golden crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it contains no meat and uses vegetarian-friendly cheeses, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.