Brie Mac and Cheese (Print Version)

Silky Brie and Parmesan blend with macaroni in a comforting, golden-topped classic perfect for any meal.

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 ounces elbow macaroni

→ Cheeses

02 - 1 cup Brie cheese, rind removed and chopped
03 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Dairy

04 - 2 cups whole milk
05 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Seasonings

06 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

11 - Chopped parsley or chives

# Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
02 - In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is bubbling, taking care not to brown.
03 - Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring as the mixture simmers gently and thickens, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
04 - Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate seasonings evenly.
05 - Reduce heat to low. Add chopped Brie cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth. Remove mixture from heat.
06 - Add drained macaroni to the Brie cheese sauce in the saucepan. Stir gently until pasta is evenly coated.
07 - Stir in grated Parmesan cheese to enrich the sauce and enhance flavor.
08 - For a baked version, transfer mac and cheese to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
09 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 15 minutes or until the surface is golden and bubbling.
10 - Finish with a sprinkling of chopped parsley or chives if desired, then serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Removing the rind from the Brie cheese creates a smoother, more luxurious texture.
02 - For extra richness and depth of flavor, the mac and cheese can be baked after mixing.