This mac and cheese recipe is perfect for cheese lovers who are looking for lots of fresh cheddar with a thin layer of breadcrumbs. With an option for a 4 cheese mix or truffle macaroni, this recipe leaves room for customization to create your dream mac!

Mac and Cheese, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Skillet Baked Mac

We recommend using a large cast-iron skillet for baking, but you can also use a casserole dish. You also might want a couple of extra hands to grate all of the cheese. For traditional comfort food with a modern kick, this Baked Mac and Cheese is a family favorite that’s filled with flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Elbow Macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons salted butter
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half & half
  • 1/2 cup 2% milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
  • (optional) 1 to 1.5 tablespoons black truffle oil
  • 2 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring the water to a boil and then add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions.
  3. Melt 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. Sprinkle the flour over the butter/oil and whisk until smooth. Continue whisking for 1 to 2 minutes.
  4. While whisking the mixture, slowly pour in the half & half and milk. Lower the heat and simmer (still whisking frequently!) until creamy and smooth, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the salt, black pepper, and dry mustard. With the heat on low,  add in the shredded medium cheddar, gouda, and parmesan. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add additional seasonings if desired.
  6. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot. Add 1.5 tablespoons of black truffle oil and stir to evenly coat the macaroni. If you do not want truffle mac, use 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will coat the pasta to keep it from sticking together while the cheese sauce cooks. Set macaroni aside.
  7. Place the breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Melt 1 tablespoon butter and drizzle it over the breadcrumbs. Toss the breadcrumbs so they are evenly coated and set aside.
  8. Dump the cheese sauce on top of the macaroni and toss thoroughly to coat. Turn out the macaroni mixture into a large cast-iron skillet.
  9. Sprinkle the extra sharp cheddar evenly on top of the macaroni and sprinkle the buttery bread crumbs on top of everything.
  10. Bake for 20 minutes or until the bread crumbs have browned.

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