Ingredients
Method
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 3-quart baking dish with butter.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar, Gruyère, grated Parmesan, truffle oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper until completely smooth and melted.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For the best texture, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties. The truffle oil can be adjusted to taste—start with 1 tablespoon if you prefer a more subtle flavor. This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated; add 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
