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 tried truffle mac & cheese at a small bistro and was immediately hooked on its indulgent flavor. Bringing that elegance into my own kitchen turned a family favorite into something truly special.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 350 g (12 oz)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (plus 1 tbsp for topping)
- All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
- Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
- Gruyère cheese, grated: 120 g (1 cup)
- Sharp white cheddar cheese, grated: 120 g (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 60 g (½ cup, plus 2 tbsp 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
- 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 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 milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
- Finish cheese sauce:
- Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Assemble:
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish.
- Add topping:
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, until top is golden and bubbling.
- Garnish and serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley (if using) before serving.
Save This dish became a staple for our holiday celebrations, and now my family insists on it for every special gathering & cozy weekend dinner alike.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a perfectly balanced meal that complements the richness of the macaroni and cheese.
Make It Your Own
Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor or swap Gruyère for Fontina or Emmental for a new cheesy twist.
Wine Pairings
A glass of Chardonnay or dry Riesling cuts through the creamy cheese and highlights the aromatic truffle oil beautifully.
Save This truffle macaroni & cheese brings restaurant-worthy decadence right to your table. Treat yourself and your loved ones with every creamy bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What types of cheese are used in this dish?
Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan combine to create a balanced, rich cheese sauce.
- → How does truffle oil affect the flavor?
Truffle oil adds a deep, earthy aroma and luxurious complexity to the creamy base.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses if unavailable?
Yes, Fontina or Emmental work well as alternatives to Gruyère for similar melt and flavor.
- → What is the purpose of the breadcrumb topping?
Mixing panko breadcrumbs with butter and Parmesan creates a crunchy, golden crust after baking.
- → How can I add more depth to the dish?
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy layer or drizzle extra truffle oil just before serving.