If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort with a touch of luxury, this Gourmet Truffle Baked Mac and Cheese is your answer. With its rich, creamy sauce infused with a hint of truffle, it’s the perfect way to elevate your classic mac and cheese to something truly extraordinary.
Elbow macaroni serves as the foundation of this dish, offering the perfect shape to hold onto every bit of that luscious cheese sauce. Butter provides a rich base for the roux, which is thickened with all-purpose flour. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream ensures a creamy, luscious sauce that's hard to resist. Gruyère cheese brings nutty, slightly sweet notes, while sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold tang. Parmesan cheese rounds out the flavor with its savory, umami profile. The star of the show, white truffle oil, gives the dish its signature aroma and flavor. A dash of garlic powder and a hint of nutmeg enhance the overall depth of the sauce. Finally, a topping of panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter adds a delightful crunch.
This gourmet mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For an extra touch, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus. A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy, cheesy flavors beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your oven ample time to reach the right temperature while you prepare the rest. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it until it's al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t forget to give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Next, grab a large saucepan and melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour while whisking continuously. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden brown and smells toasty. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. At this stage, patience is key—stir constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer.
Lower the heat and start adding your cheeses: Gruyère, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan. Stir until they melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Now, add the aromatic white truffle oil, a bit of garlic powder, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give everything a good mix.
Combine the cooked macaroni with your cheese sauce in the saucepan, ensuring every piece of pasta is well coated. Transfer this creamy mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the crumbs are moistened. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the mac and cheese, covering it completely.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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