Craving comfort food that’s both sophisticated and simple? Let me introduce you to Baked Brie Mac and Cheese. It delivers creamy, cheesy bliss without spending hours in the kitchen. It is also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients! I can promise, it’s a dish you’ll want to put on repeat – I know I certainly do.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother, bless her heart, always had a knack for making any occasion feel special. I still remember, as a little girl, the way she’d whip up creamy mac and cheese from scratch. It was always the ultimate comfort food and this time, she decided to try to make it with the brie cheese she brought from her trip to France, elevating the dish in the best possible way. Now, every time I bake a batch of this Baked Brie Mac and Cheese, I’m instantly transported back to her cozy kitchen, filled with love and laughter. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug from the past.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the brie and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Baked Brie Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.8 ounces elbow macaroni
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.4 tbsp butter, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 3 cups milk
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the brie and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 8 ounces brie cheese, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Stir in the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure the pasta is evenly coated.8 ounces elbow macaroni
- Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Expert Tips for Best Results
Don’t skip removing the rind of the brie; it can become tough during baking. Using high-quality cheese makes all the difference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the breadcrumb topping for a smoky kick. Make sure the macaroni pasta is cooked as indicated on the label. Don’t overcook it. Otherwise, the mac and cheese will be very mushy. If you want to add any extra flavor to the chees mixture, you can add parmesan cheese, garlic, and onion powder for a bold taste. If you enjoy spice, you can also add red pepper flakes for a kick! To prevent the mac and cheese from drying out in the oven, cover the dish with foil during the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove the foil for the remaining time.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Brie Mac and Cheese makes a fantastic main course or a luxurious side dish. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Grilled chicken or roasted vegetables also complement it beautifully. Consider serving it alongside a comforting tomato soup for a classic pairing with a twist. For a more upscale presentation, portion individual servings into ramekins and bake until golden brown. To add a festive touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, chives or a drizzle of truffle oil. This dish is also a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family gatherings. It can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. Pair wit a glass of dry white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can also enhance the dining experience.
Conclusion
This Baked Brie Mac and Cheese recipe is more than just a simple dish; it’s an experience of pure culinary joy. The creamy brie and rich cheddar blend seamlessly to create a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in, a special meal with loved ones, or a potluck dish that everyone will rave about. Elevate your mac and cheese game from the ordinary to the extraordinary with this recipe. Easy to customize, packed with flavor, and absolutely irresistible. Get ready to create memories and savor every cheesy, golden bite. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress – this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy the process creating the perfect Baked Brie Mac and Cheese and delight those around you with this unique comfort food.