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Truffle Mac and Cheese with Sauteed Mushrooms

Truffle Mac and Cheese with Sauteed Mushrooms

Truffle Mac and Cheese with Sautéed Mushrooms is a luxurious twist on classic comfort food. This rich and creamy pasta dish is elevated with earthy sautéed mushrooms and the unmistakable aroma of truffle oil, delivering deep, savory flavors and a luscious texture ideal for cozy nights or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale

pasta and sauce base

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk or cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

mushroom sauté

  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

finishing and optional

  • 1 to 2 teaspoons truffle oil
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water if needed, and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, then the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the mushrooms shrink, brown, and release their juices. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in milk or cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni and sautéed mushrooms to the cheese sauce. Fold gently to coat every piece evenly. Drizzle truffle oil over and toss once more to infuse the luxurious aroma.
  5. Optional Baking: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, creating a crunchy crust.

Notes

  • Choose quality truffle oil to avoid artificial flavors and maximize aroma.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; it should be slightly underdone as it will cook further in the sauce and oven.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and creamier texture.
  • Season the sauce well with salt to enhance all flavors.
  • For extra crunch, lightly toast panko breadcrumbs in butter before topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Sautéed Mushrooms, Comfort Food, Gourmet Pasta, Truffle Oil, Cheesy Pasta