Pin 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 truffle macaroni & cheese for a family dinner, and everyone swooned over the aroma as it baked. It instantly became a beloved comfort dish that adds a gourmet touch to any meal.
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
- Preheat:
- 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.
- Finish sauce:
- 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:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- 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.
- Finish:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
Pin Every time I serve this mac & cheese, my family gathers promptly at the table for seconds and shares stories, making this dish a centerpiece for laughter and warmth.
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 ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 590, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 24 g (per serving)
Pin Serve hot and finish with an extra drizzle of truffle oil for maximum flavor. Enjoy every luxurious bite!
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well and provides a classic texture.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses in the sauce?
Yes, Gruyère can be swapped for Fontina or Emmental for a different but complementary flavor profile.
- → How do you enhance the truffle flavor?
Add a few drops of truffle oil just before serving to intensify the aromatic notes.
- → What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in the sauce?
Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cheeses and enhances depth.
- → How do you achieve a crispy topping?
Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle on top before baking until golden.
- → Are there any suggested additions to vary the dish?
Sautéed mushrooms can be added for an earthy dimension, complementing the truffle oil’s aroma.
