Indulge in comfort food elevated to gourmet status with this Truffle Mac & Cheese made entirely dairy-free with Panacheeza. Creamy, luscious, and decadent, this dish blends the nutty, umami richness of truffle with the velvety melt of Panacheeza, creating a flavor that’s both indulgent and wholesome. Tender pasta shells cradle the silky sauce, while a crisp golden topping adds the perfect contrast in texture. Whether served as a show-stopping side or the star of your table, this recipe redefines mac and cheese with elegance, flavor, and compassion—no dairy required.
Serves 4
Ingredients
12 oz cavatappi macaroni or other short pasta
1 cup plant-based white cheddar
1 cup plant-based Gruyère or smoked gouda
2 cups pasta water
1 cup Truffle Panacheeza
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp truffle paste or more, to taste
1 tbsp truffle oil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground pepper
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish optional
Breadcrumbs optional
Directions
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Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water. Remember it will cook for a few minutes more in the saucepan with the cheese sauce, so try not to over cook the pasta. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Grate your cheeses while the pasta cooks.
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Make the sauce: In a hand blender, blend 2 cups of pasta water and Truffle Panacheeza until smooth.
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In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the Truffle Panacheeza sauce and warm for about 1-2 minutes, then whisk in shredded cheeses.Whisk until all is combined, about 1-2 minutes.
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Once the sauce is combined, put on low heat and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
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Remove from heat.
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Stir in the truffle paste, adjusting the amount to your preference. If you love the earthy flavor of truffles, feel free to add more for extra truffle flavor.
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Add the cooked pasta to the pan and combine.
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Drizzle the truffle oil over top and finish with fresh parsley or chives.
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OPTIONAL FINISH: If you prefer a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese and breadcrumbs. Do not add the truffle oil until baking is completed. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Add truffle oil before serving.
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Once plated, serve with Truffle Panacheeza.
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Enjoy!
Tami Cockrell
What brand white cheddar and gruyere do you use? I’ve never seen any before?