Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Brie Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic dish, featuring rich brie cheese for a smooth and decadent flavor. This recipe combines tender noodles with a garlic-thyme infused cheese sauce that’s perfect for a cozy meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 16 oz. noodles
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup white whole wheat flour
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 8 oz. brie wheel, rind removed and cut into cubes
• 1.5 teaspoons salt, separated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• 1/4 cup pasta water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the noodles. Stir immediately to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Cook the noodles until al dente, then remove 1/2 cup of the pasta water and set aside. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt, sauté until the garlic turns golden brown.
4. Step 4: Stir in the flour to the butter and garlic mixture, whisking until it forms a smooth paste.
5. Step 5: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low, add the cubed brie cheese, and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy and thick.
7. Step 7: Season with the remaining salt, ground pepper, and fresh thyme. Mix well.
8. Step 8: Add the cooked noodles to the sauce. Fold gently to coat the pasta evenly with the brie cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, use whole milk instead of 2% milk or add a splash of cream.
• Try substituting fresh rosemary for thyme to vary the herb flavor.
• If you prefer a sharper cheese punch, mix in some shredded sharp cheddar along with the brie.
• Be sure to remove the rind from the brie to ensure a smooth and silky sauce texture.

Storage

Store leftover Brie Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as elbow macaroni, shells, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

Is it necessary to remove the brie rind?

Removing the rind is recommended because it can affect the texture and flavor of the sauce, potentially making it bitter or grainy. Using just the creamy cheese inside results in a silky smooth sauce.

Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 88 reviews

A creamy and comforting Brie Mac and Cheese recipe featuring tender noodles enveloped in a rich brie cheese sauce infused with garlic and fresh thyme. This elevated mac and cheese is perfect as a hearty main dish or an indulgent side.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 16 oz. noodles

Cheese Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup white whole wheat flour
• 2 cups 2% milk
• 8 oz. brie wheel, rind removed and cut into cubes
• 1.5 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• 1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the noodles. Stir immediately to prevent sticking, then cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type.
2. Reserve Pasta Water: Remove 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and set aside. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt, sautéing until the garlic is browned and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
4. Make the Roux: Stir in the flour and whisk continuously to form a paste, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the 2% milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
6. Melt the Brie: Lower the heat to low, then add the cubed brie cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is thick and velvety.
7. Season the Sauce: Add the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, ground pepper, and fresh thyme. Stir to combine the flavors evenly.
8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the sauce and gently fold together. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed, ensuring all noodles are evenly coated.

Notes

• If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
• Removing the rind from the brie prevents bitterness and gives a smoother sauce texture.
• Fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbal note, but you can substitute with dried thyme if unavailable.
• Use 2% milk for balance between creaminess and lightness; whole milk can be used for richer sauce.
• Serve immediately for best texture; the sauce may thicken upon standing.

Keywords: Brie Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, garlic mac and cheese, thyme mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner recipe