If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and downright irresistible, this Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, warm Brie cheese meets a luscious garlic butter glaze infused with fresh herbs for a gooey, flavorful bite every time. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a special occasion, this dish combines simple ingredients into a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for sharing. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe, it’ll become a staple at your gatherings and a go-to comfort treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely vital to making your Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe sing. Each adds a unique element, from the silky richness of Brie and butter to the aromatic lift of garlic and thyme, while the honey brings just the right hint of sweetness to balance everything out.
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz): Choose a quality Brie for that perfect creamy center that melts beautifully when baked.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor evenly over the cheese.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the dish beyond ordinary.
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme): Thyme adds an earthiness that complements the buttery garlic perfectly.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the final presentation.
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling): Sweetness to balance the savory and add a luxurious glaze.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving: Provides that satisfying crunch to go with the gooey Brie.
How to Make Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it come up to temperature while you prep. This ensures the Brie will bake evenly, melting to that perfect creamy consistency without burning the garlic butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Brie
Place the Brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a small baking dish. This setup makes cleanup easy and keeps everything tidy as the cheese softens and the garlic butter works its magic.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, sautéing gently for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich butter infusion that will seep into the Brie as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the Brie
Pour the warm garlic butter evenly over the top of the Brie, making sure every corner is coated. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavor. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the Brie has melted and become soft, yet it should still hold its round shape—ooey-gooey without being runny.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, drizzle with honey for a subtle sweetness that cuts through the richness. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh herbaceousness. Serve immediately with your favorite crackers or slices of crunchy baguette to scoop up every luscious bite.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley adds that perfect burst of green and a slightly peppery flavor to contrast the warm cheese, while optional honey drizzle provides a dazzling shine and mild sweetness. You can also toss a few chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and depth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad or slices of crunchy apples and pears for a sweet, fresh complement. Roasted nuts or a simple charcuterie board full of cured meats also make fantastic companions to elevate your spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe in a rustic wooden board surrounded by an assortment of colorful fruit, nuts, and artisan crackers. For a party, opt for mini Brie wheels baked individually in ramekins for an elegant touch that’s easy for guests to enjoy. You can also stuff the Brie with dried fruits or a smear of fig jam under the garlic butter for an added flavor surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which would be very impressive), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the Brie will firm up when chilled, so allow it to come back to room temperature before reheating for the best texture.
Freezing
Freezing baked Brie is generally not recommended, as the texture and flavor can suffer after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and use within a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Reheating
To gently warm leftovers, place the Brie in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 8-10 minutes until just softened again. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery and lose its silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Brie?
While Brie is ideal for its creamy melt and mild flavor, you can try Camembert as a close substitute since it has similar melting properties and taste. Harder cheeses will not give you the gooey consistency that makes this recipe special.
Is the garlic butter mixture spicy?
No, the garlic butter in this recipe is savory and aromatic without any spiciness. The fresh garlic is sautéed gently to bring out sweetness and flavor rather than heat, making it approachable for all palates.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
To adapt for a dairy-free or vegan diet, substitute the Brie and butter with plant-based alternatives designed for melting, such as cashew-based cheeses and vegan butter. Keep in mind this will change the flavor profile but you can still achieve a delicious result.
How long does the Bistro stay warm after baking?
The baked Brie will stay warm and melty for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature, so it’s best to serve immediately after baking for the optimal creamy texture and flavor experience.
What drinks pair well with Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Sparkling wine and fruity rosé are also fantastic choices to cut through the richness and complement the garlic butter notes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the way warm, melted Brie wrapped in garlic butter can bring people together. This Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe is not only simple but downright soulful, perfect for those moments when you want to impress or indulge. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to recipes that everyone asks for again and again.
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Garlic Butter Baked Brie Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Baked Brie recipe features a warm, creamy wheel of Brie cheese topped with a fragrant garlic butter sauce infused with thyme and garnished with fresh parsley and optional honey drizzle. Baked to perfection, it’s a perfect appetizer served with crackers or sliced baguette, offering a delicious blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (8 oz)
Garlic Butter Topping
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish & Serving
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Crackers or sliced baguette, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the Brie cheese.
- Prepare the Brie: Place the Brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a small baking dish to catch any melted cheese as it bakes.
- Make garlic butter: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and thyme leaves, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, then remove from heat to avoid burning.
- Bake the Brie: Pour the warm garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of the Brie. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has softened and is just beginning to melt while still holding its shape.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the Brie from the oven and immediately drizzle with honey if desired. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve the baked Brie warm with crackers or sliced baguette for dipping.
Notes
- Use a parchment-lined baking sheet or small baking dish to contain any melted cheese and ease cleanup.
- Adjust garlic amount based on your preference for a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Honey is optional but adds a pleasant sweet contrast to the savory garlic butter.
- Serve immediately while the Brie is warm and gooey for the best experience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
