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- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour - 2 cups whole milk - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded - ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated - 2 tablespoons truffle oil (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - Optional: ½ cup cooked bacon bits - Optional: 1 cup sautéed mushrooms

Classic Mac and Cheese with a Twist

Indulge in the creamy delight of Cheesy Truffle Mac 'n' Cheese, where comfort food meets gourmet flair. This recipe features a rich blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, elevated by the luxurious touch of truffle oil. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights, this dish promises to impress with its savory flavors and silky texture. Discover how to create this satisfying meal and enjoy a taste of culinary elegance right at home.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 tablespoon truffle oil (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

½ cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: ½ cup cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

      Add the Cheese and Seasoning: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until fully melted and combined. Mix in the truffle oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure that all the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. If desired, fold in the cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for an added flavor twist.

          Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

            Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil (or melted butter) and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.

              Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    15 min | 50 min | 6 servings