White Truffle Mac and Cheese is a rich and creamy twist on a classic comfort food. The silky cheese sauce is infused with the subtle, earthy flavor of white truffle oil, which makes every bite feel a little bit special. The tender pasta is perfectly coated in this decadent sauce, creating a dish that’s both comforting and fancy all at once.
I love making this when I want to treat myself or impress friends with something simple yet luxurious. Adding just a drizzle of white truffle oil turns regular mac and cheese into something unforgettable. I always suggest starting with a little and then tasting as you go because that truffle flavor can be strong if you add too much.
This mac and cheese is perfect as a cozy dinner on its own or as a tasty side for a gathering. I like to sprinkle a bit of crispy breadcrumb topping on mine for a nice crunch. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles and happy sighs around the table, and I find myself coming back to it whenever I want something both soothing and a little extra special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Elbow macaroni or cavatappi are perfect for holding the creamy sauce. If you don’t have these, penne or shells work well too.
Cheeses: Sharp white cheddar gives bold flavor while Gruyère adds creaminess and nuttiness. Parmesan boosts savoriness and adds depth. For a milder taste, swap cheddar with mozzarella or fontina.
White truffle oil: This ingredient adds earthy aroma and luxurious flavor. Use sparingly—it’s easy to overpower the dish. If unavailable, a few drops of truffle salt or finely minced mushrooms can add earthiness.
Breadcrumb topping: Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy crust. You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if needed. Toss with butter or olive oil for extra golden crunch.
How Do You Make a Smooth and Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a cheese sauce needs some care to get it silky and lump-free. Here’s what I do:
- Start by melting the butter gently and whisking in the flour to cook the roux for 2 minutes. This removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken your sauce.
- Slowly add warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cold milk can cause clumps.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats a spoon. Patience is key—it can take about 5–7 minutes.
- After removing from heat, stir in your cheeses gradually so they melt smoothly instead of clumping.
This method ensures your sauce is creamy and velvety, making your mac and cheese extra comforting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without crowding.
- Whisk – helps you blend the roux and milk smoothly, avoiding lumps.
- Medium saucepan – great for making the cheese sauce in one place.
- Baking dish – use a 2-quart dish to bake the mac and cheese with a crispy top.
- Mixing bowl – handy for tossing breadcrumbs with oil or butter before topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right truffle oil and seasoning amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked crispy bacon or prosciutto for a salty, crunchy contrast.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms for an extra earthy note that pairs well with truffle.
- Swap Gruyère for fontina for a softer, creamier cheese texture.
- Mix in some fresh spinach or kale to add color and nutrients without overpowering flavor.
How to Make White Truffle Mac and Cheese?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Cheese and Seasoning:
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 to 2 tsp white truffle oil (adjust to taste)
Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the sauce and cook the pasta, plus 20-25 minutes to bake until bubbly and golden. Plan for roughly 40 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or a light coating of oil. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente following the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 2 minutes, whisking constantly until it turns bubbly and light golden. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Cheese and Truffle Oil:
Gradually add the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan to the sauce, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add white truffle oil a teaspoon at a time, tasting to avoid overpowering the dish.
4. Combine and Bake:
Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated. Transfer the mac and cheese to your prepared baking dish. Toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, decadent white truffle mac and cheese!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or cavatappi are ideal for holding the sauce, you can use penne, shells, or fusilli as good alternatives. Just cook until al dente as usual.
How Should I Store Leftover White Truffle Mac and Cheese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the cheese sauce and cooked pasta, then assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.
What If I Don’t Have White Truffle Oil?
You can omit it or substitute with a small amount of truffle salt or finely chopped sautéed mushrooms for a subtle umami flavor. Just remember that the truffle oil gives the dish its signature aroma.
