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Truffle Mac and Beef – Easy 3 Cheese Crockpot Dinner

truffle mac and beef - featured image

This Truffle Mac and Beef is a creamy, decadent crockpot dinner featuring a three-cheese blend, savory ground beef, and a luxurious finish of truffle oil. It’s a family-friendly comfort food that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress on any busy weeknight or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 2 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons truffle oil (white or black)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon.
  2. When beef is halfway browned, add diced onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until beef is no longer pink and onions are translucent, about 5 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess grease if needed.
  3. Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a 5-6 quart crockpot. Add uncooked macaroni, beef broth, and milk. Stir gently to combine.
  4. Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the top. Add cubed cream cheese and dot with butter. Give everything a quick stir.
  5. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours. Check at the 2-hour mark; if the pasta is tender and cheese is melted, proceed.
  6. Stir the mixture well. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Drizzle 1-2 teaspoons of truffle oil over the mac and beef. Stir gently and taste, adding more if desired.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, straight from the crockpot.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. To make gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free pasta and check all labels. Add veggies like spinach or bell pepper for extra nutrition. Always add truffle oil at the end for maximum aroma. If you prefer a crispy top, broil finished mac and beef with extra cheese for a few minutes. Leftovers reheat best with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: truffle mac and beef, crockpot mac and cheese, three cheese mac, slow cooker dinner, comfort food, beef pasta, truffle oil recipe, family dinner, easy weeknight meal