Prepare to revolutionize your mac and cheese experience with a decadent twist that will make your taste buds dance! This isn't your ordinary mac and cheese - this is a luxurious French-American fusion that transforms the classic comfort food into a gourmet masterpiece. Imagine creamy brie melting into sharp cheddar, creating a rich, velvety sauce that coats perfectly cooked macaroni, all topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to the most incredible comfort food ever, this Baked Brie Mac and Cheese will be your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: French-American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup brie cheese, rind removed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Remove the rind from the brie cheese and cut it into small, even chunks. The rind can be tough, so carefully slice it off with a sharp knife.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and brie cheese chunks. Gently mix to distribute the cheeses evenly throughout the pasta.
- Season the mac and cheese mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to incorporate the seasonings.
- Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Melt the butter in a small skillet or microwave. Mix the melted butter with breadcrumbs until they are evenly coated and slightly golden.
- Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese, creating a crispy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives if desired. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Baked Brie Mac and Cheese!
Tips
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use high-quality brie and cheddar for the best flavor. Remove the brie rind completely to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Al Dente is Key: Cook your macaroni just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Breadcrumb Perfection: Toast your breadcrumbs in melted butter until they're slightly golden for extra crunch and flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme or chives for extra depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 712kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 46g
Saturated Fat: 28g
Cholesterol: 139mg
