If you have ever dreamt of a mac and cheese experience that feels indulgent yet comforting, then this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender pasta envelopes swimming in a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce where the subtle earthiness of Brie meets the sharp tang of white cheddar, bringing a gourmet twist to a classic favorite. This dish is not just creamy and cheesy; it’s a rich, velvety symphony that will make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy night or impressing guests at a dinner party, this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe promises an exquisite balance of flavors and irresistible texture that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe comes together beautifully with simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its luscious texture and rich flavor. From the comforting bite of pasta to the creamy cheeses that make this dish stand out, every element contributes something special.
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice: Choose sturdy pasta that holds the sauce well, ensuring each bite is perfectly coated.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth roux for your cheese sauce.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: The secret to a velvety sauce texture by thickening the milk and cream mixture.
- 2 cups whole milk: Gives the sauce its creamy base with a hint of sweetness and body.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the creaminess to decadent levels, making this mac and cheese extra luscious.
- 8 oz Brie cheese (rind removed, cut into chunks): Delivers a smooth, slightly tangy creaminess that takes this recipe to the next level.
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese: Brings a punchy, sharp flavor that balances the Brie’s softness perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of savory depth without overpowering the cheeses.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and brightening all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional topping): For a flavorful crust that crisps beautifully when baked.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping): Creates a satisfying crunch on top for textural contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for topping): Helps the breadcrumbs brown to golden perfection if baking.
How to Make Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni until al dente, following the package instructions carefully. The pasta’s firm bite will perfectly complement the creamy cheese sauce without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside—this simple step lays the foundation for a perfect Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Keeping the mixture moving to prevent burning, cook for about a minute until it forms a smooth paste. This roux is the thickening hero of your sauce, responsible for that luscious, creamy consistency we all love.
Step 3: Build the Cheese Sauce
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking on medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. This is where the magic makes itself known, as you prepare to transform this base into the rich, cheesy delight by folding in Brie and sharp cheddar slowly until completely melted and silky.
Step 4: Season and Combine
Add garlic powder along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together before folding in the cooked pasta, making sure every piece is perfectly coated. This step is all about bringing the components together into a harmonious, creamy masterpiece that defines this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Step 5: Optional Baking for a Crispy Finish
For a beautiful golden crust with crunchy breadcrumbs, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Mix Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil (or melted butter) and sprinkle evenly on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is irresistibly crunchy and the dish is bubbly and hot, adding an extra dimension of texture and flavor.
How to Serve Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives right before serving to add a burst of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. A light drizzle of truffle oil or a scattering of crispy bacon bits can also elevate the dish to gourmet status, making your Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe truly unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This creamy indulgence pairs beautifully with fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw to balance its richness. If you want to keep things cozy, steamed broccoli or sautéed garlic green beans both add a splash of color and nutrition without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe in rustic individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch, or use mini cast-iron skillets for a cozy, homestyle vibe. For a festive occasion, try layering it with caramelized onions or mushrooms for added depth, or top with a crispy prosciutto shard for a delightful crunch and salty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to three days. When stored properly, the Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe maintains its creamy goodness, making it perfect for enjoying the next day without any compromise on taste or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this mac and cheese for up to one month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and avoid adding toppings before freezing to preserve the ideal texture. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven to preserve the creamy sauce without drying it out. Stir frequently and add a splash of milk or cream if it looks too thick, ensuring that every bite of this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe tastes freshly made and just as comforting as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Brie?
Absolutely! While Brie offers a unique creamy texture and mild earthiness, you can substitute with other soft cheeses like Camembert or cream cheese for a similar vibe, but the flavor will be different. Just be sure to keep the balance of sharp cheddar for that signature bite.
Is removing the Brie rind necessary?
While the rind is edible, many prefer to remove it to avoid any bitterness in the sauce and enjoy a smoother texture. Using a food processor or carefully slicing away the rind before melting ensures the sauce stays silky and perfect.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice because it holds sauce beautifully, but feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or penne. The key is to pick pasta with curves or hollows that cling to the creamy Brie cheese sauce well.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This particular Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe relies heavily on dairy for its signature flavor and creaminess. However, there are vegan Brie-style cheeses and dairy-free cream options available that can be experimented with, though the taste and texture will differ from the original.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Adding sautéed garlic, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or a splash of truffle oil are fantastic ways to deepen the flavor without complicating the recipe. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also pair wonderfully with Brie.
Final Thoughts
This Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly a celebration of comfort and gourmet indulgence all in one comforting bowl. Once you experience the creamy, cheesy blend of Brie and sharp cheddar with perfectly cooked pasta, you’ll never look at mac and cheese the same way again. So go ahead, dive into this rich, luscious delight, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Print
Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Brie Mac and Cheese is a creamy, decadent twist on the classic comfort dish, combining smooth Brie and sharp white cheddar cheeses for a rich flavor. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, with a crispy baked topping of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs, makes this recipe a deliciously indulgent main course that’s easy to prepare for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Macaroni and Cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz Brie cheese (rind removed, cut into chunks)
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Add Dairy: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Melt Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Add the Brie chunks (without rind) and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until both are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season: Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Optional Baking: For a baked mac and cheese, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle this evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot, enjoying the creamy, rich flavors of the Brie Mac and Cheese.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of truffle oil before serving.
- Using a food processor can simplify removing the rind from the Brie cheese.
- Substitute pasta shapes if desired – shells or cavatappi work well too.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
