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 mac & cheese for a cozy dinner at home, and it quickly became a favorite. The aroma from the truffle oil fills the kitchen and everyone always asks for seconds.
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 oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook 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.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Flavorings:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add cooked macaroni to sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Bake:
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Add Topping:
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Finish & Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Save Serving this to my family always brings everyone together at the dinner table, eager to dig into the bubbling, fragrant mac & cheese. It turns a regular meal into something truly memorable.
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 labels for sensitive allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 590. Total Fat: 32 g. Carbohydrates: 52 g. Protein: 24 g.
Save This mac & cheese makes any dinner feel special. Enjoy the rich taste and creamy texture with each bite!
Cooking Questions
- → What cheeses work best for a rich flavor?
Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan create a complex, creamy base for depth and richness in every bite.
- → How can I intensify the truffle taste?
A few drops of additional truffle oil drizzled before serving will amplify the signature earthy aroma and flavor.
- → Can I swap out Gruyère cheese?
You may substitute Gruyère with Fontina or Emmental, which offer slightly different notes while retaining creaminess.
- → What can I add for extra texture or flavor?
Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy dimension, while fresh parsley brightens the finished dish with herbal freshness.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this macaroni preparation uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients. Confirm cheese and truffle oil labels for compliance.
- → What wines pair well with this meal?
A crisp Chardonnay highlights the cheese and complements the richness and aroma of the truffle oil beautifully.