PENNE MACARONI AND CHEESE WITH TRUFFLE ESSENCE

PENNE MACARONI AND CHEESE WITH TRUFFLE ESSENCE image

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

3 tbls kosher salt
8 oz penne pasta, dry
1 tbls black truffle oil
2 tbls shallots, minced
3 oz applewood smoked bacon, minced
1 tbls garlic, minced
2 tbls flour
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 tbls minced basil
1/4 tsp minced thyme
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
3 cups white extra sharp cheddar, shredded
1 cup smoked medium cheddar, shredded

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook pasta in boiling, salted water for 5 - 6 minutes. Pasta should be slighter undercooked. Drain, sit one minute and toss in a bowl with the black truffle oil. Combine shallots, bacon, garlic and olive oil in 4 quart pot and cook slowly for 10 minutes using low heat. Add in the flour, increase heat to medium and cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Temper in the heavy cream and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes on low. Add in the herbs and seasonings. Stir in 3 cups of white cheddar until smooth. Add in the truffle scented pasta and stir until evenly combined. Divide into individual shallow baking dishes and top with smoked cheddar. Bake 10-15 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned.