Bacon and Black Truffle Macaroni and Cheese is a “kicked up” and very gourmet version of Macaroni and Cheese using Truffle Oil.
Bacon is always a favorite but somehow the bacon, extra-sharp cheese and truffle oil is an addictive combination of really tasty ingredients. I love the bread crumb topping on my bacon and black truffle macaroni and cheese. It toasts up nice and brown in the oven. Doesn’t it look yummy?
Perfect for entertaining with the subtle undertones of the gourmet truffle oil mixed with the smoky crunch of crispy bacon. Excellent served with your favorite steak.
Pasta Hints and Tips and more delicious Pasta Recipes.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3/4 cup panko Japanese breadcrumbs or coarse dry bread crumbs
- 3 cups (12-ounces) cheddar cheese, extra-sharp, shredded and divided
- 8 ounces dry penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon black truffle oil (optional)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil, extra-virgin
- 4 slices (4-ounces) smoked bacon, uncooked, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions or shallots, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1/4 tablespoon thyme, dried
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups half & half cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, minced
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly butter four (4) 8-ounce shallow ramekins.
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To make topping: In a small bowl, combine butter, breadcrumbs, and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese; set aside.
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Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and return to pan to keep warm. Learn How To Cook Pasta Properly. Pasta is done when it is slightly chewy to the bite or al dente. Drain pasta in a colander and transfer to a large bowl.
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Toss the drained pasta with truffle oil and set aside.
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Prepare sauce while pasta is cooking:
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Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until golden 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in shallots, garlic, and thyme; cook for 1 additional minute.
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Whisk in flour and cook an additional 3 minutes, whisking constantly. Gradually add half and half cream and bring just to a boil, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and let simmer, stirring often, until sauce slightly thickens, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
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Remove pan with the prepared cheese sauce from heat; fold in the minced basil leaves and the cooked pasta. Note: The dish can be covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days at this point
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When ready to bake, divide the pasta mixture into individual baking dishes and top with reserved breadcrumb mixture.
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Bake for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until bubbly and top begins to brown. Remove from oven and let rest approximately 5 minutes before serving.
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Serves 4 as a main dish.
Source: Recipe and photo are from the Tillamook Cheese website, and was the 2005 Regional winner of the Tillamook Macaroni and Cheese Contest. This recipe is by Brenden Mesch of Dallas, TX.
Categories:
Bacon Pasta Recipes Dinner Other Cheeses: Cheddar, Gruyere, Fontina, Monterey Jack, Gouda, Manchero, Queso Cheese, etc. Truffles & Truffle Oils Winter
One Response to “Bacon and Black Truffle Macaroni and Cheese Recipe”
Maureen Rooza
Happy to have found your recipe for Mac and cheese with truffle oil. I had the pleasure of tasting it and just love it.
Will have to try the risotto with the truffle oil. Thanks