Go Back
In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the decadence of mac and cheese. However, the classic version has undergone a gourmet transformation with the addition of truffle oil, elevating it to a dish fit for any special occasion or cozy night in. This Creamy Truffle Mac & Cheese recipe combines the rich flavors of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan with the earthy aroma of truffles, creating a creamy, indulgent experience. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting bowl of pasta, this dish promises to satisfy your taste buds.

Classic Macaroni and Cheese with a Twist

Indulge in the delightful richness of Creamy Truffle Mac & Cheese, a gourmet twist on a classic comfort food. This recipe features a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses, complemented by the earthy aroma of truffle oil. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a creamy sauce that coats perfectly cooked pasta, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for added texture. Perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in, this dish is sure to impress!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz macaroni pasta (elbow or cavatappi works great)

3 tbsp unsalted butter

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk, heated

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

2 tbsp truffle oil (or more, to taste)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: additional cheese for topping (like mozzarella or extra cheddar)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Make the Cheese Sauce:

      - In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly but not browned.

        - Gradually add the heated milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

          Add the Cheeses:

            - Reduce the heat to low, and stir in the sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until melted and creamy.

              - Add the truffle oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings based on your preference.

                Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash more milk.

                  Prepare Panko Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and a pinch of salt. This adds a crunchy texture to the dish.

                    Bake the Mac & Cheese:

                      - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                        - Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top before adding the panko mixture evenly over the surface.

                          - Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                            Serve: Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of truffle oil, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your gourmet twist on a classic!

                              Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 6-8