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Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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