Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, but when you add creamy brie, it transforms into an indulgent dish you’ll crave again and again. This brie mac cheese recipe brings together the silky smooth texture of melted brie and the familiar warmth of cheesy pasta, making every bite an irresistible treat.
You’ll love how easy it is to make this creamy brie mac cheese on the stovetop, with simple ingredients that come together quickly. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy main dish or a crowd-pleasing side, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cheesy cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses creamy brie for a rich, sophisticated twist on classic mac and cheese.
- Simple stovetop method delivers comfort food fast.
- Perfectly balanced cheese sauce that’s smooth and velvety.
- Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or add-ins.
- Great for family dinners or as an indulgent side dish.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a luscious brie mac cheese that’s sure to impress.
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta shape
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 8 ounces brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
How to Make Creamy Brie Mac & Cheese: Indulgent Cheesy Goodness in Every Bite!
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat until foamy. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
- Slowly pour in the warmed milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Lower the heat to low and add the brie pieces, shredded cheddar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta back into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece with the luscious brie mac cheese sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes on low heat to let flavors meld and the pasta warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a fresh finish.
Tips for the Best Results
- Remove the brie rind before melting to ensure a smooth sauce without chewy bits.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to prevent clumps and speed up thickening.
- Use a whisk when making the roux and adding milk for a perfectly smooth cheese sauce.
- Choose good quality brie with a creamy texture for the best flavor and melt.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover brie mac cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools; just add a splash of milk when reheating to return to creamy perfection.
You can also freeze the mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is al dente.
Is it necessary to remove the brie rind?
Removing the rind is recommended for a smoother sauce without any chewy texture. However, if you prefer the flavor the rind adds, you can leave it on, but be aware it may affect the sauce consistency.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian as it contains no meat. Just be sure the cheese you use is free from animal rennet if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.
How can I make the mac and cheese extra creamy?
To boost creaminess, add a few tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce. Also, stirring gently and not overheating the cheese will keep the sauce silky smooth.
