Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
If you have a love for warm, gooey cheese paired with the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs, then you’re absolutely going to adore this Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe. It’s a simple yet luxurious appetizer that takes just minutes to prepare but delivers big wow moments for any gathering or cozy night in. The rich, creamy Brie enveloped in fragrant garlic butter, topped with fresh herbs and a hint of honey, creates a perfect balance of savory, aromatic, and mildly sweet flavors. Whether you’re surprising guests or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to become a fast favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe is carefully chosen to complement the Brie’s delicate creaminess and enhance its natural flavors. The ingredients are simple yet essential, bringing layers of texture, aroma, and taste that come together in perfect harmony.
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz): The star of the dish, soft and melty, providing a luscious base.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and herbs’ flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses savory depth and a fragrant punch that’s unbeatable.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme): Brings a subtle earthy and floral note.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, vibrant contrast and beautiful color.
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling): A touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate every bite.
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving: The perfect vehicle for dipping and spreading that melty Brie.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for gently melting the Brie without causing it to lose its shape, ensuring every slice retains that perfect gooey texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Brie
Place the wheel of Brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a small baking dish. Doing this keeps cleanup easy and helps the cheese heat evenly without sticking to the pan.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and thyme, sautéing everything together for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the herbs release their aroma. This step is where the magic begins, as the garlic butter soak into the Brie later for a mouthwatering result.
Step 4: Bake the Brie with Garlic Butter
Pour your garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the Brie wheel. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all those rich flavors. Pop the Brie into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt softly yet still hold its round shape—oozing gently at the edges but not completely spilling out.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
After baking, immediately drizzle on the optional honey for a touch of sweetness and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Brie straight away with your favorite crackers or slices of crusty baguette for dipping and spreading the irresistibly warm cheese.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley adds a lovely fresh green pop that contrasts nicely with the cheese’s creamy richness. If you want to elevate the look and flavor further, consider adding a few toasted nuts or a dash of red pepper flakes for some subtle heat and texture.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp apple or pear slices, complementing the creamy cheese with crisp, juicy sweetness. You can also serve it alongside a light salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness or even roasted vegetables for a heartier spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, bake the Brie inside a puff pastry crust for a golden, flaky outer layer that adds crunch and sophistication. Alternatively, try serving the baked Brie in a small cast iron skillet or a festive ceramic dish to keep it warm at the table and impress your guests instantly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), cover the baked Brie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 2 days, but know that the texture changes slightly as it cools and firms up.
Freezing
While freezing is not typically recommended for baked Brie because of texture changes, you can freeze the unbaked garlic butter mixture separately and thaw before use. If you must freeze baked Brie, expect a softer, slightly crumbly texture upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat your Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes, just until it’s warmed through and melty again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese rubbery and overcook the garlic butter.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Brie?
While Brie is ideal for this recipe due to its creamy texture and mild flavor, you can try Camembert as a substitute. It has a similar melting quality and slightly stronger taste that works well with garlic butter.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic, or can I use garlic powder?
Fresh garlic is best for that vibrant, aromatic flavor in this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, a small amount of garlic powder can be used. Just keep it light to avoid overpowering the delicate Brie.
How long can I prepare this recipe in advance?
The garlic butter can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. The Brie should be assembled and baked just before serving to maintain the best texture and warmth.
What’s the best way to serve Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe at a party?
Serve it on a large platter surrounded by a variety of crackers, fresh fruit, and nuts. Providing small plates and spreaders helps guests enjoy the cheesy goodness without mess.
Can I add extra herbs or spices to customize the flavor?
Absolutely! Rosemary, sage, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add unique twists. Just adjust quantities to keep a balanced flavor that enhances the Brie without overwhelming it.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe feels like inviting you into my kitchen and handing you a warm, cheesy hug. It’s ridiculously easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and endlessly versatile. This appetizer will elevate any occasion and bring people around the table with smiles and full bellies. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be your go-to dish for a cozy night or a fabulous party starter.
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Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Baked Brie recipe featuring creamy Brie cheese topped with fragrant garlic butter, thyme, and a hint of honey, perfect for serving as an elegant appetizer with crackers or sliced baguette.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
Garnish and Serving
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the Brie cheese evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the Brie: Place the Brie cheese wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small baking dish, ensuring it’s centered for even cooking.
- Make garlic butter: In a small skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant, then immediately remove from heat to avoid burning the garlic.
- Bake the Brie: Pour the prepared garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the Brie. Lightly season with salt and pepper to taste. Bake the Brie in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and soft but maintains its shape, achieving a luscious, gooey texture.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the baked Brie from the oven, drizzle with honey if desired for a sweet contrast, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and herbs for best flavor.
- Optional honey adds a delightful sweetness that complements the savory garlic butter.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the cheese melted at its best.
- Leftover baked Brie can be reheated gently but is best fresh.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
