White Truffle Mac and Cheese Recipe

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Slow Cook Time: 2 to 2 1/2 hours
Yield: 6 to 8 servings

There’s something universally comforting about mac and cheese, the creamy, gooey, cheesy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. But what if we took this beloved classic to the next level? Enter White Truffle Mac and Cheese, a decadent twist on the traditional recipe that brings in the luxurious essence of white truffle oil, elevating this dish into something extraordinary. Using Giorgio White Truffle Oil, known for its rich, earthy aroma and delicate flavor, this mac and cheese becomes the epitome of indulgence, making it the perfect choice for gatherings, special occasions, or any time you crave a luxurious comfort food experience.

This recipe incorporates a combination of cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, bringing together both sharp and creamy textures. By using a slow cooker, the cheese sauce develops a smooth, velvety consistency that coats each piece of pasta, ensuring a perfect bite every time. The addition of truffle oil not only enhances the flavor but also brings an unmatched depth to the dish, leaving your guests or family members in awe.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cavatappi pasta (or fusilli)
• 2 (12-ounce) cans evaporated milk
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 3 cups (12 ounces) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups (8 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 teaspoons Giorgio White Truffle Oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:

Start by adding all of the main ingredients into the slow cooker. This includes the cavatappi pasta, evaporated milk, whole milk, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, Giorgio White Truffle Oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to reserve one cup of cheddar cheese for later use. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly so that the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese and milk mixture. The creamy base will begin to come together right away, and the slow cooker will do the rest of the work, transforming these ingredients into a luscious mac and cheese.

2. Cook on Low:

Once the ingredients are well mixed, cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low heat setting for 90 minutes. During this time, the pasta will absorb the liquid, and the cheese will melt, creating a creamy sauce. The slow cooking process helps the cheese meld together beautifully, creating a smooth and velvety texture that is the hallmark of a great mac and cheese. You’ll want to check the mixture halfway through to make sure the pasta is cooking evenly and that the sauce is not too runny.

3. Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping:

While the mac and cheese is cooking, prepare the breadcrumb topping that will give the dish an irresistible crunch. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with red pepper flakes (if desired) and Giorgio White Truffle Oil. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the truffle oil. Next, transfer the breadcrumb mixture to a pan over low heat. Cook the breadcrumbs for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and crispy. If the breadcrumbs seem a bit dry during cooking, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help them brown nicely.

This breadcrumb topping adds both texture and flavor to your mac and cheese, and the infusion of truffle oil makes it truly special. When this topping is finished, set it aside for later use, as you’ll sprinkle it over the mac and cheese just before serving.

4. Check the Pasta:

After 90 minutes of slow cooking, remove the lid from the slow cooker and give the mixture a good stir. The pasta may appear solid, but don’t worry; just redistribute the liquid to ensure that all the pasta is covered with the cheese sauce. If you notice that some pasta is dry or there isn’t enough sauce to coat all the noodles, don’t panic. This is where you may need to adjust the consistency. The pasta should be covered with a creamy sauce, but not swimming in liquid.

Once the pasta is well distributed and the sauce is even, replace the lid and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.

5. Adjust Consistency:

At the 2-hour mark, give the mac and cheese another stir. The sauce should be creamy and coat the pasta nicely. If the mixture seems a bit dry or the cheese has clumped together, simply add about 1/2 cup of milk, stock, or water to loosen up the sauce. Stir the mixture thoroughly until everything is smooth. Depending on the model of your slow cooker, you may need up to an additional 2 cups of liquid. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes if necessary, stirring occasionally to ensure that all the ingredients are cooking evenly.

This slow cooker method guarantees that the mac and cheese stays creamy without drying out, and you can easily adjust the consistency to your preference.

6. Add the Final Cheese:

Once the mac and cheese has reached the perfect creamy consistency, it’s time to stir in the final touch of reserved cheddar cheese. This extra cheese will melt into the dish, adding even more richness and a sharper flavor that balances the creamy Monterey Jack cheese. Stir it in well, and allow it to melt into the hot sauce before serving.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Your White Truffle Mac and Cheese is now ready to be served. Spoon the cheesy, creamy goodness into individual bowls and top with the breadcrumb topping that was prepared earlier. To finish the dish off with an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle Giorgio White Truffle Oil over the top. This final drizzle of truffle oil will enhance the dish’s rich flavors, creating a luxurious finish to your meal. For even more flavor, garnish with a few extra sprinkles of fresh black pepper.

This decadent twist on traditional mac and cheese makes for an excellent side dish, or it can be enjoyed as the main course for a hearty, comforting meal. The Giorgio White Truffle Oil brings an elegant, earthy depth to the creamy, cheesy sauce, and the breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or serving a gourmet dish at a special event.

Why This Recipe Works:

The combination of Giorgio White Truffle Oil, creamy cheeses, and a slow-cooked base creates a mac and cheese that is not only flavorful but also comforting. Truffle oil adds an unmatched level of luxury and depth to the dish, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. The slow cooker method ensures that the cheese sauce becomes perfectly smooth and velvety, allowing the flavors to meld together over time. The breadcrumb topping, enriched with truffle oil, adds the perfect crunch and further elevates the dish.

Serving Suggestions:

• Wine Pairing: Pair this luxurious mac and cheese with a glass of Chardonnay or a rich Pinot Noir. Both wines will complement the creamy texture and truffle notes in the dish.

• Side Dishes: Serve with a light green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the mac and cheese.

• Garnishes: For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top before serving.

Giorgio Truffle Shop Links:

If you’re looking to make this dish even more special, check out the Giorgio Truffle Shop for a wide range of premium truffle products. Whether you’re interested in Giorgio White Truffle Oil, truffle salt, truffle sauces, or other truffle-infused products, Giorgio offers a selection that is perfect for elevating any meal. Visit the Giorgio Truffle Shop to explore their full range of truffle products and bring the luxury of truffles into your own kitchen.