Description
This Truffle Mac & Cheese recipe elevates the classic comfort food with the luxurious aroma of truffle oil and a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, this indulgent dish is baked to perfection, making it an ideal treat for special meals or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup truffle oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter slowly ensuring it doesn’t brown.
- Make Roux: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute while whisking continuously to form a smooth roux without lumps.
- Add Milk: Gradually add the milk in a slow stream while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened into a creamy béchamel sauce.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the sauce, stirring gently until fully melted and silky.
- Season Sauce: Stir in truffle oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well for a fragrant, flavorful sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until all the pasta is evenly coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- For a richer flavor, you can replace some milk with heavy cream.
- To make breadcrumbs crunchy, toast them lightly before sprinkling on top.
- Adjust truffle oil quantity based on your preference as it has a strong aroma.
- This dish can be reheated covered in the oven to maintain creaminess.
