If you are craving an ultra-creamy, comforting pasta dish with a gourmet twist, look no further than this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a luscious, cheesy delight where the rich creaminess of Brie cheese blends perfectly with sharp white cheddar, creating a smooth and indulgent sauce that clings beautifully to tender elbow macaroni. This recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress without fuss. Trust me, once you try this version of mac and cheese, it might just become your new favorite comfort food that’s as simple as it is decadent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in building creamy texture, rich flavor, and vibrant appeal that makes every bite a comforting experience.
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice): Classic small pasta shapes are perfect for holding onto all that cheesy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a silky smooth base for your roux, giving richness without overpowering flavors.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce so it coats pasta beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Brings creaminess and smooth body to the sauce’s texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds a luscious depth and extra richness to elevate the dish.
- 6 ounces Brie cheese (rind removed, cut into chunks): The star of the show—soft and creamy with a delicate buttery flavor that melts like a dream.
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese: Adds a tangy contrast and sharpness that balances the mild brie perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory note that enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Perfect seasoning to brighten flavors and bring harmony to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and slight bite to highlight the cheese’s richness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping): Creates a golden, bubbly crust if you decide to broil it before serving.
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of vibrant color and fresh herbal aroma to finish your dish.
How to Make Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil to season the pasta from the inside out. Add the elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta and cook until just al dente according to the package directions. Cooking the pasta perfectly is crucial—it should be tender but firm enough to hold up under the creamy cheese sauce without becoming mushy. Drain it well and set it aside for the next stage.
Step 2: Make the Roux Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until fully melted and bubbly. Then whisk in the all-purpose flour right away to form a roux. Stir this mixture constantly for about a minute. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates the essential thickening base that will turn your sauce silky and velvety.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps as the mixture combines. Keep stirring frequently as you bring it to a gentle simmer. This is where the sauce begins to thicken, usually taking about 3 to 5 minutes. The cream and milk come together to make the sauce luxuriously smooth and velvety—this is what makes the Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe truly special.
Step 4: Add Cheeses and Seasoning
Now turn the heat down to low and add the chunks of Brie cheese along with the shredded sharp white cheddar. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely and create a creamy, smooth sauce. The Brie melts effortlessly, lending a buttery mildness, while the cheddar adds necessary sharpness and depth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, tasting as you go to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor.
Step 5: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce
Pour the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every piece with that rich, melted goodness. This step is pure comfort magic, as the pasta becomes enveloped in a thick, cheesy blanket that promises satisfaction in every forkful.
Step 6: Optional Broil for a Golden Crust
If you love a little crunchy topping for your Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe, transfer the creamy pasta to a greased oven-safe baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and broil on high for about 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown. This adds a wonderful texture contrast to the luscious interior.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness. Serve your Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe warm so you get that perfect gooey, comforting melt with every bite.
How to Serve Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your dish from everyday to elegant. Fresh thyme or parsley lend a vibrant green contrast and a subtle flavor lift that balances the rich cheeses beautifully. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of truffle oil adds a gourmet touch that perfectly complements the Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Side Dishes
This rich mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Try a peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add texture and earthiness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside pan-seared chicken or grilled sausage for an extra protein boost.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or make family dinners extra special? Serve the Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and Parmesan crust. Or layer it in a beautiful casserole dish lined with caramelized onions and crispy bacon bits for a decadent twist. Even stuffing the cheesy pasta inside bell peppers and baking until bubbly makes for a festive presentation everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the sauce may thicken as it cools, but with a bit of stirring and gentle reheating, it warms back up beautifully without losing creaminess.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, though for best texture, freeze it before optional broiling. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain that velvety cheese sauce that’s the hallmark of the Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the mac and cheese gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. If you love a crispy top, sprinkle a little Parmesan and broil for a few minutes after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce well, you can use shells, penne, or even cavatappi for a fun twist. Just make sure to cook it just until al dente to prevent mushiness.
Is it necessary to remove the rind from the Brie?
Yes, removing the rind ensures the sauce is smooth and creamy without any tough or bitter bits. The rind is edible but can affect texture and flavor in a mac and cheese dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
This version of Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe relies on the rich dairy components that create its signature creaminess. For vegan alternatives, you would need to substitute with plant-based cheeses and dairy-free milk, but the flavor and texture will differ significantly.
What can I add to make the dish more special?
Enhance the Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe by stirring in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms. A drizzle of truffle oil or honey just before serving also elevates it to gourmet status.
Is it better to bake the mac and cheese or just serve it stovetop?
Both are delicious! Baking with Parmesan topping adds a lovely golden crust and a different texture, while serving it straight from the stovetop showcases the sauce’s pure creamy perfection. Choose based on your mood or occasion.
Final Thoughts
There is just something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly creamy, cheesy pasta, and this Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe hits that mark with flair. It’s approachable enough for weeknight comfort but special enough to serve at gatherings or when you want to treat yourself. I encourage you to give it a try—you might find yourself reaching for Brie in new and delicious ways all year long!
Print
Brie Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Brie Mac and Cheese recipe offers a creamy, decadent twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Made with rich Brie and sharp white cheddar cheeses, the dish combines a smooth cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta for an indulgent comfort meal. Optional Parmesan topping and fresh herbs add extra flavor and a gourmet touch, perfect for a cozy dinner or side dish.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces Brie cheese (rind removed, cut into chunks)
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Roux. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Create the Cheese Sauce. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the Cheeses and Season. Reduce the heat to low and add the Brie and shredded sharp white cheddar cheeses. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Bake and Broil (Optional). If you desire a crispy cheese topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired, and serve the Brie Mac and Cheese warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute all the milk with heavy cream.
- Add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or roasted mushrooms to elevate the dish to a gourmet level.
- Brie pairs beautifully with a drizzle of truffle oil or honey for an added layer of flavor.
