I love a good variation on a traditional dish.   Macaroni and cheese is a staple in a lot of homes, but can get a little boring day to day.  So, why not spruce it up with a little sophistication?  I love the addition of truffle oil in a good macaroni and cheese recipe, of course paired with some good quality cheese.  Truffle oil has an amazing flavor, and a little goes a long way.

Read on for a delicious recipe!

Truffle Oil Macaroni and Cheese

{adapted from made by michelle}

Serves 8-10

1 pound curly cavatappi pasta

5 tablespoons unsalted butter

5 tablespoons all-purpose flour

4 cups warm whole milk

1 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp ground mustard powder

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 cup gruyere cheese, grated

1 cup sharp cheddar, grated

1 cup pecorino romano, grated

1 cup parmesano reggiano

1 1/2 tablespoons white truffle oil

1/2 cup panko breadcrumb

1/8-1/4 cup Pecorino Romano, grated

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a pot of water to boil. Add salt and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and rinse in a colander to remove excess starch, which can make the finished product mealy. While the pasta is boiling, warm the milk in a small sauce pan. In a separate medium sauce pan, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble, but hasn’t yet browned. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes over medium-low heat. Add the milk in a steady stream and continue to whisk for another 4-5 minutes. Let the milk mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes or until it’s thickened, stir constantly. Add the salt, pepper, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, mustard powder and one and a half tablespoon of truffle oil. Then add in the gruyere, pecorino romano, parmesan and cheddar and stir until smooth, 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and add the pasta to the pot, stirring to coat.  Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the breadcrumbs and a sprinkling of pecorino romano. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is browned and bubbly. Let sit for 10 minutes.

Note:  You can serve with various toppings like: shredded cheeses, grilled mushrooms, grilled onions, bacon bits, chives, etc.

Enjoy!