If you adore cheese and enjoy sharing something simple yet spectacular, the Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish transforms a creamy wheel of Brie into a bubbling, flavorful centerpiece that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or an elegant appetizer. Infused with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs, it offers irresistible aroma and rich taste with minimal effort, making it a delightful treat you’ll want to serve again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each element is straightforward but essential, carefully chosen to complement the Brie and elevate both flavor and texture.
- Brie cheese wheel: The star of the dish, creamy and mild to melt beautifully under heat.
- Garlic cloves: Finely minced to infuse pungent, savory notes without overpowering.
- Fresh rosemary: Chopped to add aromatic pine-like tones and a hint of earthiness.
- Fresh thyme: Adds subtle citrusy and floral undertones that brighten the flavor.
- Olive oil: Helps the garlic and herbs meld into the cheese while providing a smooth finish.
- Salt and black pepper: To season perfectly and bring out the natural flavors in the Brie and herbs.
- Honey (optional): A touch of sweetness to balance the savory garlic and herbs, but entirely your call.
- Crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables: The perfect dippers to enjoy the melty Brie.
How to Make Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Brie
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for a perfect bake. Place the Brie wheel on parchment paper or in a lightly greased oven-safe dish—this creates a cozy bed for the cheese to soften without sticking.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Toppings
Drizzle the olive oil generously over the Brie to keep it moist as it bakes. Next, sprinkle the finely minced garlic evenly all over, followed by the chopped rosemary and thyme. These herbs will release their wonderful aromas as the cheese warms.
Step 3: Season Thoughtfully
Lightly season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you want a subtle twist, add a teaspoon of honey right now—it complements the herbs and garlic with a gentle sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
Step 4: Bake to Melty Perfection
Place the prepared Brie in the oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside is lightly golden, and the cheese starts to ooze slightly—but stay watchful so it doesn’t overcook and lose its silky texture.
Step 5: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once baked, give your Brie a few minutes to cool just slightly. This resting time helps the cheese thicken to the perfect consistency for spreading without being too runny.
How to Serve Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme on top for a bright, fresh presentation. A small drizzle of honey just before serving adds a glossy finish and enhances the flavor contrast your guests will love.
Side Dishes
This melty Brie pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, artisanal crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like crisp celery and sweet bell peppers. These sides add texture contrasts that highlight the gooey cheese’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your savory baked Brie on a rustic wooden board surrounded by sliced apples or pears, nuts, and olives for an inviting charcuterie-style spread. You can even use small ramekins for individual servings if you want a fancy, portioned presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Brie will firm up as it cools but will keep its lovely flavor for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Freezing baked Brie is not recommended as the texture tends to become grainy and watery once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh for that creamy, oozy perfection.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Brie gently in a 300°F oven for about 8–10 minutes until it softens again. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook or separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen herbs instead of fresh ones?
Fresh herbs are ideal because they provide vibrant aroma and flavor. If you only have frozen herbs, use about half the amount since the flavor can be more concentrated, but fresh really makes this dish shine.
Is it okay to use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor and texture, but in a pinch, garlic powder can be sprinkled lightly on top. Keep in mind it won’t have the same sharpness or aroma as fresh minced garlic.
Can I add other toppings to this recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans, caramelized onions, or even sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor dimensions that complement the herbs and garlic.
How long can I let the Brie rest before serving?
Allow the Brie to rest for about 2 to 3 minutes after baking. This ensures it’s warm and creamy but thick enough to prevent it from running off your serving plates.
Does the optional honey make the dish too sweet?
Not at all. The honey adds a delicate sweetness that balances the savory garlic and herbs perfectly, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a purely savory experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs Recipe that turns every occasion into a celebration. It’s quick, fuss-free, and deeply satisfying—perfect for impressing friends or indulging in a cozy night at home. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to appetizers for every gathering.
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Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
This Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs is a simple yet elegant appetizer that brings together creamy, melted Brie cheese infused with fresh garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Perfect for entertaining, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a flavorful and inviting start to any meal.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (approximately 8 ounces)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey
To Serve
- Crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the Brie evenly.
- Prepare the Brie: Place the Brie wheel on a parchment-lined baking sheet or inside an oven-safe dish to catch any melted cheese and make cleanup easier.
- Add toppings: Drizzle the Brie with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme over the cheese for fragrant, herby flavor.
- Season and sweeten: Lightly season with salt and black pepper to enhance the taste. If desired, add a light drizzle of honey to balance the savory herbs with a subtle sweetness.
- Bake the Brie: Place the Brie in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The cheese should soften and become slightly oozy but not fully melted.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly cool and set. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Choose a whole wheel of Brie with the rind intact for the best results; the rind is edible and helps keep the cheese together when melted.
- Be careful not to overbake, as the cheese can become too runny and difficult to serve.
- Fresh herbs are preferred for vibrant flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities if fresh are unavailable.
- The optional honey adds a delightful contrast to the savory garlic and herbs, but can be omitted for a purely savory taste.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor.
