Truffle Mac and Cheese Bites

There’s something irresistibly comforting about macaroni and cheese. This quintessential dish has been a household favorite for generations, cherished for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or served at a lively gathering, mac and cheese embodies the essence of comfort food. But what if you could take this beloved classic and elevate it to gourmet status? Enter truffle mac and cheese bites—a delightful twist that transforms a familiar favorite into an elegant, bite-sized treat.

Discover the ultimate comfort food twist with these delicious truffle mac and cheese bites! Combining the creamy richness of classic mac and cheese with the gourmet touch of truffle oil, this easy recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With a crispy exterior and gooey, cheesy center, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, snacks, or as an upscale appetizer. Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your culinary game with this delightful dish!

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Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon truffle oil (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.

Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and half of the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the truffle oil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine: Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.

Form the Bites: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the mac and cheese mixture into mini muffin tins, pressing them down gently. If desired, sprinkle the tops with the remaining Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden and crispy.

Cool and Serve: Remove the mac and cheese bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Carefully pop them out of the muffin tin, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 24 bites