Craving a touch of luxury in your comfort food? This Gourmet Truffle Macaroni and Cheese combines the familiar warmth of mac and cheese with the rich, earthy flavor of truffle oil. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a standout side dish at your next dinner gathering.
Elbow macaroni provides the perfect base with its classic shape that holds onto the creamy sauce. Butter starts the roux, which is essential for thickening the cheese sauce. Flour combines with the butter to make this roux, creating a smooth and stable sauce.
Whole milk and heavy cream form the rich, creamy base that makes the sauce luscious. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors of the cheese and truffle oil. Gruyere cheese brings a nutty depth, while white cheddar cheese provides a sharp contrast.
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory kick to the mix. Truffle oil infuses the dish with a luxurious, earthy aroma. Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy topping, and fresh parsley offers a pop of color and freshness.
This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a juicy steak. A glass of crisp white wine complements the dish beautifully.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and while it's warming up, go ahead and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This will be the cozy home for your macaroni and cheese. Next, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. You want it firm but cooked. Drain it well and set it aside for a bit.
Now onto the sauce. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt your butter. Once it’s melted and slightly bubbling, whisk in the flour. Keep whisking for about a minute until it's smooth and a bit bubbly, but be careful not to let it brown. Slowly add in the milk and heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook until it thickens up, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
With your sauce thick and velvety, add in the salt and black pepper. Now, it’s time to introduce the stars of the show: stir in the Gruyere, white cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses until everything is melted and smooth. Take the saucepan off the heat and gently stir in the cooked macaroni and truffle oil. Make sure every piece of pasta is nicely coated in this dreamy sauce.
Transfer your cheesy macaroni to the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your macaroni. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in.
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