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
Scale
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.
