Barefoot Contessa Truffle Mac and Cheese

Looking to take comfort food to the next level? Barefoot Contessa’s Truffle Mac and Cheese blends rich cheeses, creamy béchamel, and a hint of luxurious truffle for a dish that’s both indulgent and refined.

What Is Barefoot Contessa Truffle Mac and Cheese?

Ina Garten’s take on mac and cheese starts with a classic white sauce (béchamel) base, enriched with sharp white cheddar and Gruyère, then finished with white truffle butter or oil for a rich, earthy aroma. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s the ultimate comfort dish with an elevated twist.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Grown-Up Mac and Cheese
• Ina Garten White Chocolate Bark

Reasons to Try Barefoot Contessa’s Truffle Mac and Cheese

• Creamy and cheesy – The perfect sauce-to-pasta ratio
• Elegant yet comforting – Great for dinner parties or cozy nights
• Truffle adds depth – A subtle, gourmet finish
• Crowd-pleaser – Loved by adults and kids alike
• Make-ahead friendly – Prepare ahead and bake before serving
• Versatile – Serve as a side or main
• Barefoot Contessa–approved – You know it’s good

Ingredients Needed to Make Barefoot Contessa Truffle Mac and Cheese

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
• 1 quart whole milk
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces Gruyère cheese, grated
• 8 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons white truffle oil (or 3 tablespoons truffle butter)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Barefoot Contessa Truffle Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk gently (don’t boil). In a separate large pot, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.

Slowly add the hot milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Cook for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Truffle

Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Gruyère, cheddar, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until melted and smooth. Add truffle oil or truffle butter and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat thoroughly.

Step 5: Bake the Mac and Cheese

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mac and cheese into it.

If using a topping, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with panko and Parmesan. Sprinkle evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle.

What to Serve With Truffle Mac and Cheese

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus – Balances the richness
• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette – Peppery and bright
• Grilled steak or chicken – Turns it into a full meal
• Tomato soup – For a comforting duo
• Garlic bread or sourdough rolls – Soaks up every bite
• Glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir – Elegant wine pairing
• Crisp apple slices or pear salad – For sweet-savory contrast

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use good-quality cheeses – They make the difference
• Truffle oil is potent—use sparingly – A little goes a long way
• Shred cheese yourself – Pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly
• Don’t overcook the pasta – It finishes cooking in the sauce
• Let the béchamel thicken before adding cheese – Prevents graininess
• Use a cast iron or ceramic dish for even baking
• Broil the top briefly at the end (optional) – For extra crisp

Variations of the Recipe

• Add sautéed mushrooms – Pairs beautifully with truffle
• Mix in cooked pancetta or bacon – For smoky richness
• Use black truffle oil for stronger flavor
• Stir in peas or spinach – Adds a green element
• Try different cheeses like fontina or taleggio – For a deeper flavor
• Serve in mini ramekins – For individual portions
• Add a drizzle of truffle oil right before serving – Enhances aroma

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in airtight container – Best within 3 days
• Reheat in oven or microwave – Add a splash of milk to loosen sauce
• Cover with foil when reheating in the oven – Keeps it moist
• Freeze in portions (without topping) – Up to 2 months
• Label and date containers – Helps with planning
• Reheat from thawed, not frozen – For best texture
• Top with fresh breadcrumbs before reheating – Adds crunch

How Do I Reuse Leftover Truffle Mac and Cheese?

• Turn into mac and cheese bites – Scoop, bread, and fry or bake
• Make a grilled mac and cheese sandwich – Crispy and decadent
• Add to a breakfast scramble or frittata – With eggs and greens
• Serve over roasted vegetables – Great way to stretch leftovers
• Use as a topping for baked potatoes – Comfort overload
• Mix into a casserole or pasta bake – With extra cheese
• Reheat and add a fried egg on top – For brunch-style comfort

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Sugar: 5g

FAQs

What kind of truffle is best for Ina Garten’s mac and cheese?

White truffle oil or truffle butter works best. It adds a delicate, earthy flavor without overpowering the cheese.

Can I make truffle mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it fully without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

What cheeses work best for this recipe?

A combination of Gruyère and sharp white cheddar melts beautifully and provides depth. You can also add a little Parmesan for extra flavor.

How do I reheat truffle mac and cheese without drying it out?

Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore creaminess.

Final Words

Barefoot Contessa’s Truffle Mac and Cheese brings sophistication to comfort food. With creamy cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, and just a hint of truffle, it’s a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.

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