Truffle Mac Cheese Waffle Sandwich (Printable Format)

Golden cheesy waffles filled with truffle macaroni, layered for a rich and crunchy comfort food delight.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 2 cups elbow macaroni or other short pasta

→ Cheese Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 1 cup heavy cream
06 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
07 - 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
08 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
09 - 1 1/2 teaspoons truffle oil, or more to taste
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Binding & Assembly

12 - 1 large egg
13 - 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
14 - 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

→ For Cooking & Serving

15 - Butter or oil spray, for greasing
16 - Extra truffle oil, for drizzling (optional)
17 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
18 - Creamy garlic dipping sauce or ranch, for serving (optional)

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Cook until sauce thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes.
03 - Remove the saucepan from heat. Add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and truffle oil. Stir until all cheeses are melted and the sauce is velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
04 - Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until every piece is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
05 - Stir in the egg, panko breadcrumbs, and additional Parmesan into the chilled mac and cheese mixture. Combine until the mixture forms a cohesive, thick batter that holds its shape.
06 - Preheat the waffle maker and lightly grease the plates with butter or oil spray for even browning and to prevent sticking.
07 - Spoon a generous portion of the mixture onto the center of the preheated waffle maker. Close the lid and press gently. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the waffle is beautifully golden and crisp. Remove and repeat until all batter is used.
08 - To create a sandwich, layer extra cheese or a drizzle of truffle aioli between two mac and cheese waffles if desired. Sandwich together and serve hot, garnished with parsley and accompanied by garlic dipping sauce or ranch if preferred.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - Refrigerating the mac and cheese mixture before cooking helps the waffles hold their shape and develop extra crispness.