Baked Mac & Cheese with Truffle Breadcrumbs 🧀✨

Hey there! If you’re in the mood for the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and just a little fancy — you’re going to fall in love with this Baked Mac & Cheese with Truffle Breadcrumbs. It’s that perfect mix of cozy and luxurious. The sauce is rich and velvety, the pasta is perfectly coated, and the truffle-scented breadcrumb topping adds that irresistible crunch (and yes, it smells like heaven). 🧀🍝✨

This is my go-to dish when I want to impress without stress. It’s a crowd-pleaser at dinner parties, holidays, or just those nights when you need something indulgent and comforting. And the best part? You can make it ahead and bake it right before serving — because no one should have to choose between delicious and easy!

Nutritional Benefits

Okay, so mac & cheese isn’t exactly a salad — but when made from scratch, it’s much better than the boxed version! You’re using real cheese, fresh milk, and butter — no artificial stuff. The calcium and protein from the cheese and milk make it surprisingly nourishing. Plus, you can balance things out by using whole-wheat pasta or adding veggies like spinach, peas, or roasted mushrooms right into the mix. And since it’s baked, you don’t need tons of butter to get that crispy topping — the truffle oil does the magic. 💫

Adaptable Variations

• Truffle-Free Version: No truffle oil? No problem! Use garlic butter or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for a classic twist.
• Healthier Option: Use whole-grain pasta, low-fat milk, and a mix of sharp cheeses for maximum flavor with fewer calories.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli florets, caramelized onions, or roasted mushrooms before baking — delicious and extra filling!
• Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions; everything else stays the same.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little heat that balances the richness.

Baked Mac & Cheese with Truffle Breadcrumbs Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but adds depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt + 1/4 teaspoon pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• 1 tablespoon truffle oil (white or black — both work!)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for the topping)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta 1 minute less than package instructions (it’ll continue cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until smooth and slightly golden — this thickens your sauce.
3. Add milk & thicken: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning — it should be deliciously cheesy!
5. Combine with pasta: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated. Pour into a lightly greased baking dish.
6. Prepare the topping: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small pan, then stir in breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and truffle oil. Toast for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
7. Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac & cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, then sprinkle with parsley or a drizzle of extra truffle oil for that luxurious touch. Dig in and enjoy every creamy, crispy bite!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Cheese mix matters: Combining sharp cheddar (for flavor) and Gruyère (for creaminess) gives the perfect texture. You can also add a bit of fontina or Monterey Jack for a meltier feel.
• Don’t overbake: Once the top is golden, remove it! Overbaking can make the sauce dry instead of creamy.
• Make-ahead tip: Assemble the mac & cheese up to 24 hours in advance (without baking). Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve — just add 10 extra minutes to the bake time.
• Truffle oil tip: A little goes a long way! Start with a teaspoon, taste, and adjust. Too much can overpower the dish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven with a splash of milk to bring the creaminess back.
• Serving suggestion: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables — the freshness balances the richness perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make it without truffle oil? Absolutely! It’ll still be delicious — just use extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of garlic butter in the topping.
2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s best to shred your own. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
3. Can I freeze it? Yes! Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat covered in the oven until hot and bubbly.
4. What’s the best pasta shape? Elbows are classic, but cavatappi or shells hold the sauce beautifully — and they look extra fun!

Serving Idea: Elegant Comfort Food Night ✨

I love serving this mac & cheese in small ramekins or mini skillets — it looks beautiful and makes everyone feel like they have their own little dish of luxury. Add a sprinkle of truffle salt on top and serve with a glass of white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc). It’s cozy, classy, and ridiculously satisfying — the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes after the first bite. 🧀💛

Call to Action

Did you make this Baked Mac & Cheese with Truffle Breadcrumbs? I’d love to see how it turned out! Tag me on Pinterest and show off your golden, cheesy masterpiece. Don’t forget to save this recipe — it’s one you’ll want to pull out every time you’re craving a little extra comfort and a touch of elegance. 🧀✨