Nothing beats the warm, gooey embrace of Brie Mac and Cheese. Picture this: creamy macaroni enveloped in a blanket of rich, melted Brie cheese, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust that crackles like the sound of laughter around a dinner table. creamy potato gratin with cheese With each bite, your taste buds dance to the harmonious blend of flavors, while the unmistakable aroma wafts through the air, beckoning everyone to join in on the feast. zucchini ricotta melts recipe.
This delightful dish has become a family favorite at cozy gatherings and spontaneous weeknight dinners alike. I remember the first time I made Brie Mac and Cheese; my friends were skeptical about the combination but quickly turned into enthusiastic fans after just one bite. quick and cheesy English muffin pizzas Perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, it promises a flavor experience that is both indulgent and utterly satisfying. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy chicken alfredo lasagna recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Brie Mac and Cheese recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight meals stress-free
- The rich flavor profile will keep everyone coming back for seconds
- With its creamy texture and crispy topping, it’s visually stunning on any table
- Plus, it is versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or toppings
I served this dish at my last gathering, and let’s just say there was none left by the end of the night!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Macaroni Pasta: Use elbow macaroni or any pasta shape you love; cook until al dente for the best texture.
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Brie Cheese: Opt for high-quality Brie with a soft rind; it adds creaminess and depth that’s hard to resist.
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Milk: Whole milk works best for a rich sauce, but feel free to substitute with your preferred non-dairy option.
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Butter: Unsalted butter helps control saltiness in your cheese sauce while enhancing overall flavor.
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Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; they give that delightful contrast to creamy mac and cheese.
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Garlic Powder: A pinch adds aromatic warmth to the dish; don’t skip this essential seasoning!
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Salt and Pepper: Season generously to elevate all those delicious flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened.
Add the Brie: Remove from heat and stir in chunks of Brie cheese until melted and smooth. Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper for flavor enhancement. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy garlic biscuit bombs recipe.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce gently until every piece is coated in that creamy goodness.
Topping Time!: Pour mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Top with panko breadcrumbs evenly for an irresistible crunch.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy on top.
Enjoy your homemade Brie Mac and Cheese hot out of the oven! The marriage of textures from creamy pasta paired with crunchy topping guarantees raving reviews from family and friends alike. savory sweet potato bagel chips.
You Must Know
- The beauty of Brie Mac and Cheese lies in its creamy texture and rich flavor
- Pairing the Brie with sharp cheddar elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
- This dish is not just comfort food; it’s an experience!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta while melting butter for the sauce. Combine flour to create a roux, then whisk in milk before adding cheese. This ensures a smooth texture without lumps.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Brie for other cheeses like Gouda or add ingredients like crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. Spice it up with a pinch of nutmeg!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Brie Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using high-quality cheese makes a notable difference in flavor and creaminess
- Always taste as you go; seasoning can make or break your dish
- Don’t skip the breadcrumb topping—it adds delightful crunch!
Sometimes I whip this up for friends, and they rave about how it’s better than any restaurant mac and cheese they’ve had. It’s always my go-to when I need to impress!
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese for Brie Mac and Cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for unique flavors.
How do I make my mac and cheese extra creamy?
Add more milk or cream when reheating to enhance creaminess without losing texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Brie Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Brie Mac and Cheese is a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food. Creamy macaroni is enveloped in rich melted Brie cheese, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs that create an irresistible texture. This dish is not just indulgent; it’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. Whether for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will delight your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 8 oz high-quality Brie cheese, cut into chunks
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth, then slowly add milk, stirring continuously until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in Brie until melted. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
