Baked brie is a delicious and indulgent treat, perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with friends and family.
However, if you find yourself with leftover baked brie, you might wonder how to make the most of this creamy, rich cheese.
Instead of letting it go to waste, there are plenty of creative and mouthwatering ways to transform those leftovers into new and exciting dishes.
From gourmet grilled cheese to savory puff pastries and even adding it to salads or pasta, your options are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore 12+ delicious ideas on what to do with leftover baked brie, ensuring that none of this decadent cheese goes unused.
What to Do with Leftover Baked Brie: 12+ Savory and Sweet Ideas
Whether you incorporate it into a creamy pasta sauce, make a gourmet grilled cheese, or use it as a topping for pizza, your leftover brie can be elevated into something just as special as the original dish.
By using the ideas shared in this article, you can reduce food waste while creating delicious, easy-to-make meals that your family and friends will love.
So the next time you have leftover baked brie, don’t hesitate to experiment and create something extraordinary!
Make a Baked Brie Grilled Cheese
Transform your leftover baked brie into a luxurious grilled cheese sandwich.
The creamy texture of the brie pairs wonderfully with slices of sourdough bread or a French baguette.
Add some caramelized onions, fig jam, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast.
This option works well because the rich flavor of the baked brie complements the toasty, golden crust of the bread.
Be cautious not to overheat the brie while grilling, as it can become too runny and spill out of the sandwich. Pair it with a light soup or salad for a complete meal.
Create a Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
Another delightful use for leftover baked brie is to spread it onto crostini and top it with prosciutto, arugula, or a drizzle of honey.
The saltiness of the prosciutto blends beautifully with the creamy, mellow brie, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness.
This option is perfect for a light snack or an appetizer for entertaining. Be mindful not to overload the crostini with too many ingredients, as brie is quite rich on its own.
Additional toppings like crushed walnuts or dried cranberries can enhance the flavor profile further.
Toss it into a Salad for Creaminess
Leftover baked brie can easily be added to salads for a touch of creaminess. It works especially well in salads with fruit, nuts, and arugula or spinach.
The brie provides a velvety texture that elevates the freshness of the greens, while fruits like pears or dried cherries give a nice sweet balance.
This option is ideal for a lighter, healthier meal or side dish. Caution: If the brie is too warm, it may melt too much and overpower the salad.
Let the cheese cool slightly before adding it. Extra additions like toasted pecans or a balsamic glaze will make the salad even more gourmet.
Incorporate it into a Savory Puff Pastry
If you have leftover baked brie, consider using it as a filling for savory puff pastries.
Combine the brie with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions, and wrap it all in puff pastry dough for a savory hand pie.
The brie’s creamy texture binds the ingredients together beautifully, making it an elegant appetizer or snack.
Be cautious of overstuffing the pastry, as the brie can become too runny when baked again.
Additional flavors like herbs, garlic, or even truffle oil can make this dish even more indulgent and gourmet.
Melt it into a Creamy Pasta Sauce
Leftover baked brie can be the perfect base for a creamy, decadent pasta sauce.
Melt it gently into a saucepan with a bit of heavy cream, garlic, and white wine to create a rich sauce that coats your pasta perfectly.
This works best with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta that can hold up to the thick sauce.
The brie adds a luxurious creaminess without the need for additional cheese. Be cautious of over-salting the sauce, as baked brie can sometimes carry a strong flavor.
You can enhance the dish further by adding sautéed mushrooms, crispy pancetta, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Use it as a Filling for Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Repurpose your leftover baked brie by using it as a stuffing for chicken breasts.
Simply make a pocket in the chicken, stuff it with the brie along with ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, then bake until the chicken is golden and the brie has melted inside.
This option creates a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort. Caution: Make sure to seal the chicken well, as brie can ooze out during baking.
To elevate the dish, serve it with a light white wine sauce or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Mix it into Mashed Potatoes for Extra Creaminess
Give your mashed potatoes a gourmet twist by mixing in your leftover baked brie.
Its creamy texture will blend seamlessly into the potatoes, making them richer and more flavorful. This option is ideal for a comforting side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or holiday meals.
Be cautious not to add too much brie, as it can overpower the flavor of the potatoes. A little goes a long way.
For an extra special touch, add roasted garlic, chives, or crispy bacon bits to enhance the flavors even more.
Make a Brie and Berry Tart
If you’re in the mood for something sweet and savory, transform your leftover baked brie into a delightful brie and berry tart. Use puff pastry as a base, spread your leftover brie on top, and scatter fresh berries like raspberries, blackberries, or figs over the cheese.
The combination of the tart berries with the rich brie makes for a perfect balance of flavors. Bake until the puff pastry is golden, and the brie has melted into the fruit.
Caution: Keep an eye on the tart while baking, as the berries can release juices that might burn. A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze adds an extra layer of sophistication.
Make a Brie-Stuffed Burger
Turn your leftover baked brie into a gourmet surprise inside a burger. Stuff the brie into the center of a burger patty, so when it’s cooked, the cheese oozes out with every bite.
The brie’s creamy texture pairs wonderfully with juicy beef, and you can enhance the flavors by adding caramelized onions, arugula, or fig jam to your burger.
This option elevates a regular burger into something special.
Caution: Be sure not to overstuff the burger, as the brie could leak out during cooking. You can serve it with a toasted brioche bun and sweet potato fries for a full meal.
Use it in a Frittata or Quiche
Leftover baked brie can be easily incorporated into a frittata or quiche for a rich and creamy breakfast or brunch dish.
Combine the brie with eggs, sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, and bake until the eggs are set.
The brie will melt into the eggs, creating a velvety texture. This option is great because it turns simple eggs into a luxurious meal.
Caution: Brie has a strong flavor, so balance it out with milder ingredients like spinach or leeks. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the taste further.
Add it to a Flatbread or Pizza
Your leftover baked brie can make an excellent topping for a flatbread or pizza. Spread the brie over the dough and top it with ingredients like sliced pears, prosciutto, arugula, or caramelized onions.
The creamy brie will melt into the dough, making every bite deliciously rich.
This option is perfect for an appetizer or light dinner.
Caution: Don’t overload the flatbread with too many toppings, as the brie is already quite heavy. For extra flavor, drizzle the finished pizza with balsamic reduction or add a handful of toasted nuts for crunch.
Turn it into a Brie Mac and Cheese
Elevate your regular mac and cheese by adding leftover baked brie to the mix.
The brie’s creamy, slightly nutty flavor adds depth to the traditional dish. Combine it with other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for a complex and decadent mac and cheese.
This option is perfect for a comforting meal or side dish that feels luxurious.
Caution: As brie is a rich cheese, balance it with something acidic, like a touch of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs, to cut through the richness. You can also add bacon, spinach, or truffle oil to create different flavor combinations.
How to Store Leftover Baked Brie
Properly storing leftover baked brie can help preserve its texture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy it again in the future.
While storing it in the fridge for a few days is the most common option, freezing it is also possible with the right technique, though it may slightly alter the cheese’s texture.
Following the correct steps can help maintain its creaminess and prevent it from becoming overly dry or crumbly.
Understanding how to store it effectively is key to making the most of your leftover baked brie.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Allow the Baked Brie to Cool Completely
Before storing or freezing, ensure the baked brie has cooled down to room temperature. Storing it while still warm can create condensation, making the cheese soggy or promoting bacterial growth. - Wrap it Tightly in Plastic Wrap
Once the brie has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure to cover all exposed areas to prevent air from getting in, which can lead to drying out or freezer burn. If the brie is cut into pieces, individually wrap each piece to preserve its integrity. - Place it in an Airtight Container
After wrapping the brie, place it in an airtight container or a resealable freezer-safe bag. This adds an extra layer of protection, especially when freezing, to ensure the cheese retains its moisture and flavor. - Label and Date the Container
Label the container with the date to keep track of how long the brie has been stored. Baked brie can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, while frozen baked brie can last up to 2 months. After this period, the texture and flavor may degrade. - Freezing Leftover Baked Brie (Optional)
If you plan to freeze your baked brie, follow the same wrapping and airtight container steps mentioned above. Place the wrapped brie in the freezer and lay it flat so it freezes evenly. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the texture of the brie, making it more crumbly once thawed. - Thawing Frozen Baked Brie
To thaw frozen baked brie, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw slowly for several hours or overnight. Avoid thawing it at room temperature, as this can affect the texture and cause excess moisture. Once thawed, you can reheat the brie in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) until it is warmed through.
Storing leftover baked brie is simple when you follow the right steps, whether you choose to refrigerate or freeze it.
Wrapping the cheese tightly and keeping it in an airtight container ensures it stays fresh for the longest possible time.
While freezing baked brie is possible, it may slightly change the texture, so refrigeration is preferred for shorter-term storage.
By taking care of how you store it, you can enjoy the creamy goodness of your baked brie again without sacrificing too much of its flavor or texture.
1. Can you reheat leftover baked brie?
Yes, you can reheat leftover baked brie. The best method is to place it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Reheating it this way helps maintain its creamy texture without overcooking it. Avoid using the microwave, as this can cause the cheese to become rubbery or too oily.
2. Can I freeze leftover baked brie?
Yes, you can freeze leftover baked brie, although it may slightly alter the texture once thawed. To freeze, wrap the brie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Frozen baked brie can last up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating gently in the oven.
3. How long does leftover baked brie last in the fridge?
Leftover baked brie can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
For best results, consume the brie within this time frame, as the texture and flavor may begin to degrade after a few days.
4. Can I use leftover baked brie in other recipes?
Absolutely! Leftover baked brie can be repurposed into a variety of dishes. You can use it as a creamy addition to sandwiches, salads, pasta, or even pizza.
Its rich, melty texture makes it versatile, and it pairs well with both savory and sweet ingredients like fruits, meats, or herbs.
Popular uses include grilled cheese sandwiches, crostini, or adding it to scrambled eggs.
5. What should I serve with leftover baked brie?
Leftover baked brie pairs well with a variety of foods, both sweet and savory.
Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, fresh fruit (such as apples, pears, or grapes), or fruit preserves for a simple snack or appetizer.
For a heartier option, add it to a charcuterie board with cured meats, nuts, and honey.
You can also incorporate it into more elaborate dishes like puff pastry, flatbreads, or salads.
Sources
- https://food52.com/hotline/3315-what-should-i-make-with-my-leftover-brie-a-main-meal-preferably
- https://www.quora.com/What-can-I-do-with-a-half-pound-of-leftover-brie-rinds
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Cooking/comments/tcus8z/best_ways_to_use_up_two_wheel_of_expired_brie/
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-a-good-recipe-for-brie-cheese-other-than-baked-brie-in-pantry-dough
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Cooking/comments/nrp3dr/what_to_do_with_too_much_brie/