Bushra Griffith
Brie is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes, from crackers and wine to pasta. Using brie in pasta creates a rich and creamy sauce that beautifully coats the noodles. The mild flavour of brie pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile option for pasta dishes. While brie can be a bit pricey, a little goes a long way, and it can be stretched by adding other cheeses or ingredients. In addition, the rind of the brie, which is typically left on during cooking, adds a signature flavour to the dish. Overall, brie pasta is an easy, elegant, and tasty meal that can be made in 25 minutes or less.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Preparation time | 25 minutes or less |
| Ingredients | Brie cheese, pasta, spinach, tomatoes, basil, milk, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, pancetta, bacon, beef bacon, parmesan, cream cheese, pesto, rosemary, shallot, Italian seasoning |
| Nutritional Information | Calories: 228-552kcal, Carbohydrates: 38-55g, Protein: 7-24g, Fat: 6-26g, Saturated Fat: 1-13g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1-2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 3-9g, Trans Fat: 0.03g, Cholesterol: 1-71mg, Sodium: 10-509mg, Potassium: 224-317mg, Fiber: 2-3g, Sugar: 2-3g, Vitamin A: 397IU, Vitamin C: 2mg, Calcium: 87-129mg, Iron: 1mg |
| Storage | Can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-5 days, in the freezer for up to 3 months |
| Recipe Notes | The rind can be left on the brie cheese for added flavor, but it can also be removed before melting the cheese. The amount of brie used can be adjusted to preference. |
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What You'll Learn
How to cut brie for pasta
When using brie in pasta, the rind is usually left on the cheese. However, some recipes require you to cut off the top or bottom rind before baking the cheese in the oven. This is because the cheese will congeal as it cools, and cutting off the rind allows the cheese to escape the rind and makes it easier to mix with the pasta.
To cut the rind off of a wheel of brie, you will need a sharp knife or cheese wire. Start by placing the brie flat on a surface and carefully cutting through the rind and wheel of cheese. If you are cutting the top of the brie, you can then place the cheese rind-side down in a skillet and bake it in the oven. If you are cutting the bottom of the brie, you can place the cheese in a glass pan, with the rind-side up, and surround it with other ingredients such as cherry tomatoes.
Once the brie is baked, you can add the pasta and other ingredients to the skillet or pan and toss everything together. Some recipes suggest cutting the brie into long, narrow slices before serving, as this is considered to be the proper way to slice a wheel of brie and makes for a prettier presentation.
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Best pasta shapes for brie
Brie is a mild, nutty, and buttery cheese that pairs well with a variety of pasta shapes. Its creamy texture and flavour make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a range of pasta dishes.
When choosing the best pasta shape for brie, consider those that can hold and absorb the creamy sauce. For example, bowtie pasta (farfalle) is a great option as its shape and ridges can catch the sauce. Similarly, pasta shapes with ridges or tubes, such as penne, rotini, and fusilli, can hold the sauce well and provide a balanced bite.
Additionally, spaghetti is a popular choice for brie pasta, as its long strands can be coated evenly in the sauce. However, keep in mind that brie congeals when it cools, so it is best to eat spaghetti with brie sauce immediately after preparation.
Other pasta shapes that can work well with brie include fettuccine, which has a flat and wide shape, and chickpea pasta, which offers a nutritious alternative to traditional pasta. Ultimately, the choice of pasta shape depends on personal preference, and you can experiment with different options to find your favourite combination with brie.
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Adding protein to brie pasta
Adding protein to your brie pasta
Brie pasta is a delicious, decadent, and simple dish that can be made in under 30 minutes. While brie is a great source of protein on its own, you can easily add more protein to your brie pasta by including meat, seafood, eggs, or plant-based sources.
Meat
Meat is a great source of protein and can be added to your brie pasta in many ways. Try adding cooked, diced chicken or turkey breast to your pasta for a lean protein boost. You could also use ground beef or pork for a heartier dish. If you're feeling fancy, wrap your brie in bacon before baking for a delicious, meaty twist on the classic brie pasta.
Seafood
Seafood is another excellent source of protein that pairs well with brie. Try adding shrimp, salmon, or tuna to your pasta for a healthy and flavorful boost of protein.
Eggs
Eggs are a versatile and affordable source of protein. While you can't beat a good fried or scrambled egg, you could also try boiling or poaching some eggs and adding them to your brie pasta for a unique twist.
Plant-Based Sources
If you're looking for plant-based protein options, there are plenty to choose from! Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans are excellent sources of protein and can be added whole or mashed into your pasta sauce. Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds, are also great sources of protein and healthy fats. You could also try tofu, which is a soy-based protein source that can take on the flavors of your brie pasta.
Remember, when adding protein to your brie pasta, be mindful of the cooking time and temperature to ensure your protein of choice is cooked thoroughly and safely. Enjoy experimenting with different protein sources to create a delicious and nutritious brie pasta dish!
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Reheating brie pasta
Choosing a Reheating Method:
- Oven reheating: The oven is recommended as it allows for gentle and even reheating, preventing the pasta from drying out. Preheat your oven to 300-350°F (120°C is also mentioned as a preheat temperature but might be too low). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent moisture loss, and reheat for 10-20 minutes, depending on the amount of pasta.
- Microwave reheating: While some sources suggest reheating brie pasta in the microwave, others advise against it, stating that the intense heat of the microwave can negatively affect the texture and quality of the brie. If you choose to use the microwave, do so in short intervals and stir the pasta frequently to distribute the heat evenly.
- Air fryer: If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your brie pasta. Set the air fryer to 120°C and place the foil-wrapped pasta in the basket. Reheat for about 10 minutes and then check if the cheese has melted. If not, reheat for another 5 minutes.
Storage and Preparation Tips:
- Store leftover brie pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Proper storage will help maintain its quality and extend its shelf life.
- When reheating, always cover the pasta to retain moisture and prevent drying. Use foil or a suitable lid for the chosen reheating method.
- If using the oven method, add a few tablespoons of water to the baking dish to create steam and help maintain moisture.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during reheating to ensure even heat distribution and prevent overheating in certain spots.
- Brie pasta is best served immediately after preparation, but if you plan to reheat it, consider cooking the pasta al dente beforehand so that it doesn't become overcooked during the reheating process.
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Brie pasta toppings
There are several toppings that can be used to enhance the flavour of brie pasta. Here are some ideas:
Basil
Adding basil to your brie pasta can provide a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish. It pairs well with the creamy texture of the brie and can be chopped or torn into pieces, depending on your preference.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutritious and tasty addition to brie pasta. You can chop it to your desired size and mix it in with the pasta. Spinach leaves have a mild flavour that complements the brie without overwhelming its delicate taste.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a versatile topping that can add a earthy or meaty flavour to the brie pasta. They can be sliced or chopped and then sautéed in butter or oil before being mixed into the pasta.
Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes, in particular, can add a burst of sweetness to the dish. You can chop them and mix them in raw, or roast them beforehand for a deeper flavour. Grape tomatoes are also an option, but some may find them less sweet and more acidic.
Bacon
For a heartier option, bacon can be a delicious addition to brie pasta. Cook the bacon until crispy, then break it into bite-sized pieces. The savoury, smoky flavour of bacon pairs well with the creamy brie.
Parmesan Cheese
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can add a sharp, salty flavour to the brie pasta. It can be grated or shaved on top, adding a contrasting texture to the dish.
Feel free to experiment with combinations of these toppings to create a brie pasta dish that suits your taste!
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Frequently asked questions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut off the top rind of the Brie and place it in a skillet or baking dish. Surround the cheese with chopped cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and thyme. Bake for 25-35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Meanwhile, cook your pasta in a large pot of salted water. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the cheese and tomatoes, stirring to combine.
No, you can leave the rind on, as it adds flavour to the sauce. However, if you prefer, you can cut it off before baking the Brie.
You can add spinach, basil, garlic, lemon juice, and/or a protein of your choice (e.g. chicken, shrimp, or bacon). You can also add nutritional yeast to enhance the cheesy flavour.
You can use any type of pasta you like! Spaghetti, penne, and shells are all good options.
This dish is best served fresh, as the Brie congeals when it cools. However, you can cook the pasta in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
