Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with the most luxurious mac and cheese you've ever tasted! This Baked Truffle Macaroni and Cheese isn't just another pasta dish - it's a gourmet experience that transforms the classic comfort food into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece. Imagine creamy, rich cheese sauce infused with decadent truffle oil, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to an indulgent meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 400g elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Gruyère)
- 2 tablespoons truffle oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese until completely melted and incorporated.
- Add truffle oil, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is well coated.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly across the top for a crispy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional truffle oil or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose high-quality cheese: Use freshly grated Cheddar and Gruyère for the best melting and flavor.
- Don't rush the roux: Take your time whisking the butter and flour to create a smooth base for your sauce.
- Truffle oil tip: Add truffle oil at the end to preserve its delicate flavor and aroma.
- For extra crispiness, broil the top for 2-3 minutes after baking if you want a darker golden crust.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for the topping - they create a more appealing texture than store-bought.
- Let the dish rest after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For a gourmet touch, try adding some crispy pancetta or bacon bits before baking.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 90mg
