Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist! This Truffle Mac and Cheese combines creamy, decadent cheeses, tender lobster, and a hint of earthy truffle flavor for a dish that’s as luxurious as it is delicious. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat for yourself!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1⅔ cups mozzarella cheese (hand-grated)
- 1⅔ cups sharp cheddar cheese (hand-grated)
- 1⅔ cups Emmental or Jarlsberg cheese (hand-grated)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (reserved for topping)
- 1 pound lobster meat (cooked and chopped)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half and half
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons butter (divided)
- Truffle oil or truffle paste (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chives (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions, reducing cook time by 1 minute.
- Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon butter to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Roux:
- In a saucepan, melt remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook until smooth.
- Gradually add milk and half and half, whisking constantly until lump-free.
3. Thicken the Sauce:
- Cook roux over medium heat, stirring until thickened (~6–12 minutes).
- Test with a spoon: sauce should cling and hold a clear line when tested.
4. Add the Cheeses:
- Remove from heat; stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Emmental until smooth.
5. Combine Pasta and Lobster:
- Pour cheese sauce over pasta; mix to coat.
- Fold in 75% of the lobster meat.
6. Assemble the Dish:
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining lobster and Parmesan on top.
7. Bake and Garnish:
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
- Garnish with chives and drizzle with truffle oil before serving.
Notes
- Hand-grate cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Start with a small amount of truffle oil; adjust to taste.
- Use fresh lobster for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American