Truffle Macaroni Cheese Bake

Featured in: Asian-Inspired Dishes

A classic comfort dish is transformed with luxurious truffle oil and a medley of Gruyère, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Al dente macaroni is enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce, then baked under a crunchy panko-parmesan crust. The truffle oil adds an earthy aroma and depth, making each bite truly memorable. Drizzle extra truffle oil and parsley before serving for a gourmet touch. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy family meal, this golden-baked creation suits vegetarian diets and pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine.

Updated on Sun, 09 Nov 2025 09:12:00 GMT
Decadent truffle macaroni and cheese topped with golden panko breadcrumbs, ready to serve.  Save
Decadent truffle macaroni and cheese topped with golden panko breadcrumbs, ready to serve. | gingertaste.com

A decadent twist on the classic comfort food, this creamy macaroni & cheese is elevated with aromatic truffle oil and a blend of luxurious cheeses.

This recipe transforms a beloved classic into an elegant dish, perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated gathering.

Ingredients

  • Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
  • All-purpose flour: 2 tbsp
  • Whole milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
  • Grated Gruyère cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
  • Grated sharp white cheddar cheese: 120 g (1 cup)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: 60 g (½ cup)
  • Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
  • Sea salt: 1 tsp
  • Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Truffle oil: 1½ tbsp (plus more for drizzling)
  • Panko breadcrumbs: 60 g (½ cup)
  • Unsalted butter, melted: 1 tbsp
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp
  • Chopped fresh parsley: 1 tbsp (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Oven & Dish:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Butter a medium baking dish (about 2 liters/2 quarts).
Cook Macaroni:
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make Roux:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Whisk in Milk:
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add Cheeses & Seasonings:
Remove from heat. Stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and truffle oil until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine with Macaroni:
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare Topping:
In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tbsp Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
Bake:
Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle with extra truffle oil and sprinkle with parsley before serving if desired.
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This truffle macaroni & cheese is perfect for sharing with loved ones, bringing warmth and luxury to any meal.

Required Tools

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

  • Contains milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and may contain mustard.
  • Check cheese and truffle oil labels for allergens or cross-contamination if sensitive.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 590
  • Total Fat: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Protein: 24 g

Creamy truffle macaroni and cheese in a bubbling baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley.  Save
Creamy truffle macaroni and cheese in a bubbling baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley. | gingertaste.com

Indulge in this gourmet twist on a classic, a truly comforting and elegant dish for any occasion. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Recipe Questions & Answers

What cheeses work best in this dish?

Gruyère, sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan provide a creamy, flavorful blend. Fontina or Emmental can be used for variation.

Can other pasta shapes be used?

Yes, shells, penne, or cavatappi hold sauce well and are good alternatives to elbow macaroni.

How strong is the truffle flavor?

The truffle oil imparts a subtle earthiness. Adjust the amount or drizzle extra before serving for a bolder taste.

Is this suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, however, confirm cheese and truffle oil ingredients to ensure they are vegetarian-friendly.

Can mushrooms be added?

Sautéed mushrooms bring extra earthiness and blend well with the truffle and cheese flavors.

How to achieve a golden topping?

Bake with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and Parmesan for a crisp, golden finish.

Truffle Macaroni Cheese Bake

Creamy macaroni flavored with truffle oil and three cheeses, finished with a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Setup duration
15 min
Heat application time
25 min
Complete duration
40 min
Created by Olivia Harper

Classification Asian-Inspired Dishes

Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition specifications Meat-free

Components

Pasta

01 12 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

01 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
03 2 cups whole milk
04 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
05 1 cup grated sharp white cheddar cheese
06 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
07 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 1 teaspoon sea salt
09 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
10 1 1/2 tablespoons truffle oil, plus more for drizzling

Topping

01 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
02 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
03 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
04 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preparation steps

Phase 01

Prepare Baking Dish and Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a medium baking dish with butter; the dish should hold approximately 2 quarts.

Phase 02

Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

Phase 03

Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a smooth paste.

Phase 04

Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring consistently until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and immediately stir in Gruyère, cheddar, Parmesan, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, and truffle oil. Mix thoroughly until all cheeses are melted and sauce is silky.

Phase 05

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until each piece is coated evenly.

Phase 06

Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Phase 07

Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese. Mix until crumbs are moistened and sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.

Phase 08

Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling.

Phase 09

Finish and Serve: Allow to rest for 5 minutes after baking. Drizzle a touch more truffle oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Necessary tools

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Potential allergens

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if you're uncertain about ingredients.
  • Contains milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and mustard. Consult cheese and truffle oil ingredient labels for additional allergen risks or possible cross-contamination.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are provided as estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Content: 590
  • Fats: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Proteins: 24 g