Brie Mac and cheese are a beloved classic on my dinner table, but it takes on an extra touch of luxury with the rich and creamy brie. This popular comfort food is given a refined update, making it appropriate for both busy weeknight dinners and spectacular holiday celebrations. With its blend of elevated Flavors and comforting familiarity, my Brie Mac and Cheese is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Table of Contents
What exactly is brie cheese?
Brie is a delectable, soft-ripened cheese with its origins in Seine-et-Marne, France. It’s renowned for its creamy and buttery consistency, making it a popular choice to enjoy at room temperature alongside bread or crackers. Additionally, brie can be elevated by baking it with ingredients like honey or fruit, such as my recipes for baked brie with hot honey and pecans or baked brie with fig jam.
Wondering about the rind of brie? Absolutely, you can eat it! Brie boasts a soft and edible bloomy rind that not only adds flavor but is also quite delightful. However, for this particular recipe, I prefer to remove the rind to ensure our mac and cheese maintains that velvety and smooth texture we’re aiming for.
Brie Mac and Cheese Variations
Although this mac and cheese is already delicious as is, it’s also a versatile canvas waiting for your personal touch. Here are some ideas to help you personalize your mac and cheese:
- Bacon Bliss: Crispy bacon bits or pancetta add a smoky, Savory flavor. Sprinkle them over the top for a crunchy finish.
- Veggie Extravaganza: Boost the nutritional value by adding sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or caramelized onions. It’s a tasty way to sneak in some veggies.
- Herb Garden Delight: Fresh herbs like basil, chives, or parsley provide a burst of freshness. Chop them finely and sprinkle over the mac and cheese before serving.
- Spice It Up: For some heat, toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’s perfect for those who like a little kick.
- Protein Power: Enhance the protein content with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or even shrimp. Just fold it into the creamy goodness.
- Crunchy Toppings: Experiment with various toppings like buttery breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed potato chips for a satisfying crunch.
- Different Cheeses: While brie is fantastic, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or blue cheese for unique flavor profiles.
- Truffle Oil Elegance: Drizzle some truffle oil over your mac and cheese for a luxurious and earthy aroma.
Remember, the possibilities are endless, so let your taste buds guide your creative additions to make your mac and cheese truly your own masterpiece. Enjoy the culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni
- 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cubes cut
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
- Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt.
- Cook the macaroni until al dente according to package specifications.
- Drain the macaroni and keep it to the side.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Put the saucepan on medium heat and allow the butter to melt.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the brie, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg if you prefer.
3. Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce:
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring that every noodle gets a creamy embrace.
4. Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon the creamy Brie Mac and Cheese into serving bowls.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of colour and flavour.
5. Enjoy Your Cheese Lover’s Delight!
- Dive into your homemade Brie Mac and Cheese while it’s still wonderfully warm and gooey.
This recipe serves approximately 4 people, but it’s so good that you might not want to share! Indulge in the creamy, cheesy bliss and Savor every bite of this cheese lover’s dream.
Brie Mac and Cheese recipe video:
Brie Mac and Cheese nutrition facts (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | Approximately 500-550 |
| Total Fat | About 30-35 grams |
| Saturated Fat | Approximately 20 grams |
| Cholesterol | Around 80-90 milligrams |
| Sodium | Approximately 500-600 milligrams |
| Total Carbohydrates | Roughly 40-45 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | Approximately 2-3 grams |
| Sugars | Varies, but usually less than 5 grams |
| Protein | Approximately 15-20 grams |
Health Benefits:
- Protein: This dish provides a moderate amount of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Fats: While it contains fats, including saturated fats from cheese and butter, they are part of the indulgent nature of this dish. As a treat, enjoy it in moderation.
- Carbohydrates: The pasta contributes carbohydrates, a primary source of energy. opt for whole-grain macaroni to boost fiber content.
- Dietary Fiber: While not particularly high in fiber, whole-grain macaroni can increase the fiber content and aid digestion.
- Calcium: Cheese, especially brie, provides calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content, particularly if you have high blood pressure or dietary restrictions. Adjust the salt to your preference.
- Customization: You can modify this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences, such as using low-fat cheese or whole-grain pasta for added health benefits.
- Portion Control: Given its richness, enjoy this dish in moderation and consider portion sizes.
Remember that nutritional values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. Adapt the recipe to align with your dietary needs and preferences.
The Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Once you’ve prepared this delicious dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze portions for later enjoyment, make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Frozen Brie Mac and Cheese can be stored for about 1-2 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy your refrigerated or frozen Brie Mac and Cheese again, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Remember that adding a splash of milk while reheating can help restore its creamy texture.
Enjoy your cheesy delight whenever you desire!