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Perfect Truffle Mac and Cheese

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A rich, creamy, and indulgent homemade mac and cheese infused with earthy truffle oil and a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, topped with a golden crispy breadcrumb crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30 grams)
  • 3 cups whole milk (720 ml), warmed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (8 ounces / 225 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (4 ounces / 115 grams)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (2 ounces / 55 grams)
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons truffle oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko or regular bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until smooth and slightly nutty, but not browned.
  3. Slowly pour in warmed whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Lower heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  5. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and drizzle in truffle oil starting with 1 teaspoon. Taste and add more if desired.
  6. Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
  7. In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated.
  8. Pour mac and cheese into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle breadcrumb mixture over the top.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until top is golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and smooth sauce. Start with less truffle oil and add more to taste as it is very potent. Slightly undercook pasta to prevent mushiness after baking. Toss breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter for a crunchy topping. For dairy-free or vegan versions, substitute plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and vegan butter. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, truffle mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese, truffle oil recipe, comfort food, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/perfect-truffle-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-homemade-indulgent-meal/