12+ Delicious Ideas for What to Do with Leftover Baked Camembert!

If you find yourself with leftover baked Camembert after a gathering or cozy dinner, don’t let it go to waste!

Camembert, known for its creamy texture and bold flavor, is versatile and can be repurposed in various delicious ways.

Whether you’re a fan of rich pasta sauces, gourmet snacks, or cheesy casseroles, there are plenty of creative and easy options for using up every last bit.

In this article, we’ll explore over 12 ideas for what to do with leftover baked Camembert, ensuring you make the most of this indulgent treat while avoiding unnecessary waste.

12+ Delicious Ideas for What to Do with Leftover Baked Camembert

From creamy pasta sauces and decadent grilled cheese sandwiches to sophisticated pizza toppings and savory gratins, there are endless ways to repurpose this versatile cheese.

With these 12+ ideas, you’ll never have to throw out Camembert again.

Whether you’re looking for quick snacks or elaborate meals, the options are limitless, proving that leftover baked Camembert can be just as delightful the second time around.

Make a Creamy Camembert Pasta Sauce

If you have leftover baked Camembert, transforming it into a rich and creamy pasta sauce is an excellent way to use it up.

The cheese’s gooey texture and earthy flavor pair beautifully with various pasta types like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.

Simply melt the leftover Camembert in a pan with a bit of milk or cream, add garlic, herbs, and a pinch of salt for a luxurious sauce.

This option works well because the cheese melts easily, creating a smooth consistency perfect for coating pasta.

Be cautious about adding too much salt, as baked Camembert can already be quite salty. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Spread on Freshly Toasted Bread or Crackers

Reheat the baked Camembert and spread it over warm, freshly toasted bread or crispy crackers for a delicious and quick snack.

This option is ideal because the gooey consistency of the cheese spreads easily and turns a simple snack into a decadent treat.

Pair it with toppings like caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or even a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

If you’re reheating the cheese, be careful not to overcook it, as it could turn grainy. Leftover Camembert also pairs well with fresh fruit such as figs or apples to balance out its richness.

Add It to a Salad for Extra Flavor

Tossing chunks of leftover baked Camembert into a salad can elevate the dish with a punch of creaminess and intense flavor.

The melted cheese adds a wonderful contrast to fresh ingredients like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens.

Additionally, the warmth from the Camembert creates a pleasing texture when mixed with crunchy elements such as nuts or croutons.

When trying this option, it’s important to cool the cheese slightly so that it doesn’t wilt the greens too much.

For a more complete meal, you can add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to the salad. A light balsamic or vinaigrette dressing works best to complement the cheese’s strong taste.

Incorporate It Into a Quiche or Savory Tart

Leftover baked Camembert can be repurposed in a quiche or savory tart. Its creamy texture blends perfectly into egg mixtures, while the intense flavor elevates the dish, making it richer.

This is an excellent option if you’re looking for a way to use up both the cheese and any other leftover vegetables or meats you may have.

When baking, be cautious about balancing flavors, as Camembert can dominate the dish.

Consider using milder ingredients like spinach, leeks, or sautéed mushrooms to keep the quiche or tart balanced.

Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal. You can also freeze the quiche for later if you have too many leftovers.

Stir It Into Mashed Potatoes

Using leftover baked Camembert to elevate mashed potatoes is a comforting and indulgent option.

The cheese melts easily into the hot potatoes, adding a velvety texture and a deep, savory flavor.

Simply stir the cheese into freshly mashed potatoes along with a bit of butter and cream for extra richness.

This works well because Camembert blends smoothly and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

However, be mindful not to add too much cheese if the Camembert is particularly strong, as it may overpower the potatoes. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like chives or parsley to brighten up the dish.

Create a Gooey Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Turn your leftover baked Camembert into a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich by spreading it between slices of your favorite bread. The cheese will melt further during grilling, creating an indulgent, gooey center.

This is an excellent way to make use of the cheese’s creamy texture and strong flavor.

To enhance the sandwich, consider adding extras like sliced tomatoes, caramelized onions, or crispy bacon.

When grilling, be careful not to burn the bread while waiting for the cheese to melt completely. Serve with a bowl of soup for a perfect comfort meal.

Use It as a Pizza Topping

Repurpose your baked Camembert as a pizza topping for an unexpected and delicious twist. The cheese will melt and spread over the pizza, giving it a luxurious, creamy base.

Pair the Camembert with toppings such as prosciutto, arugula, or figs for a sophisticated flavor profile.

This works particularly well on thin crust pizzas, where the cheese can really shine. Be cautious about adding too many toppings that are high in moisture, as they might make the pizza soggy.

A drizzle of balsamic glaze or honey after baking adds a delightful sweetness to complement the savory richness of the cheese.

Melt It Into a Risotto

Leftover baked Camembert can add depth and creaminess to a risotto, turning it into a more indulgent dish.

As the cheese melts into the risotto, it creates a velvety finish that enhances the natural creaminess of the rice.

This option works especially well with risottos that include ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.

Be cautious of the risotto’s salt content, as Camembert is already quite salty. You might want to reduce or eliminate any additional salt in the recipe.

For an even richer flavor, stir in some white wine or vegetable stock during the cooking process.

Bake It Into Stuffed Mushrooms

Turn your leftover baked Camembert into a savory filling for stuffed mushrooms.

The cheese’s creamy consistency and bold flavor make it an ideal stuffing ingredient for large mushrooms like portobellos or cremini.

Combine the Camembert with breadcrumbs, herbs, and a touch of garlic, then stuff the mixture into the mushroom caps and bake until golden.

This option is a great way to create a bite-sized appetizer or side dish. Be cautious not to add too much salt, as the Camembert is already salty.

You can also add chopped spinach or sautéed onions for extra texture and flavor.

Whip It Into a Cheese Dip

Transform leftover baked Camembert into a warm, velvety cheese dip that can be served with vegetables, crackers, or bread.

Simply heat the cheese with a bit of cream or milk, stirring until smooth and dippable.

You can also enhance the dip with spices, herbs, or even a splash of white wine.

This option is perfect for gatherings or as an appetizer. Be careful not to overheat the dip, as Camembert can become grainy if it gets too hot.

Pair it with fresh fruit like apples or grapes for a contrasting sweetness that complements the rich, salty cheese.

Top a Baked Potato

Using leftover baked Camembert as a topping for a baked potato turns a simple side dish into something extraordinary.

The cheese will melt into the potato, adding a creamy, tangy layer of flavor. This option works particularly well because the cheese’s smooth texture contrasts nicely with the fluffiness of the potato.

Add some chives, crispy bacon bits, or sour cream to take it to the next level.

Be cautious when reheating the Camembert, as overheating can cause the cheese to become too runny. For extra indulgence, drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the top.

Add It to a Gratin

Incorporate your leftover baked Camembert into a potato or vegetable gratin for a decadent, cheesy layer.

The Camembert will melt and blend with the creamy base, creating a luxurious, savory dish.

This option is ideal for enhancing a simple gratin, whether made with potatoes, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts.

The strong flavor of the cheese will elevate the dish and make it more satisfying.

Be careful not to add too much cheese, as it could overpower the vegetables or make the gratin too rich.

For added texture, sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan before baking.

How to Store/Freeze Leftover Baked Camembert

Properly storing or freezing leftover baked Camembert ensures you can enjoy it later without compromising its quality.

Baked Camembert, when stored correctly, can last in the refrigerator for a few days or be frozen for longer-term use.

While the texture may slightly change when reheated, following the right storage methods helps retain its flavor and creamy consistency.

Whether you’re planning to eat it within the week or keep it for future recipes, preserving leftover Camembert is simple and practical.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Cool Completely:
Allow the baked Camembert to cool down to room temperature before storing or freezing it. Placing it in the fridge or freezer while still hot can cause condensation, which may alter the texture and flavor of the cheese.
Wrap in Parchment Paper or Wax Paper:
Once cooled, wrap the leftover Camembert tightly in parchment paper or wax paper. This prevents the cheese from drying out and helps preserve its soft, creamy texture. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on the cheese, as it can trap moisture and make the cheese soggy.
Place in an Airtight Container:
After wrapping the cheese, place it in an airtight container. This extra layer of protection shields the Camembert from absorbing odors from other food in your refrigerator or freezer. If you plan to freeze it, consider using a freezer-safe container or bag to maintain freshness.
Label the Container:
If you’re freezing the cheese, label the container with the date of storage. Camembert can be frozen for up to 3 months, so it’s important to keep track of when it was stored. For refrigerated Camembert, it’s best consumed within 3-4 days to ensure the best quality.
Refrigerate or Freeze:
Store the wrapped Camembert in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. If you want to keep it for longer, place it in the freezer. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit grainier when reheated.
Reheating Instructions:
When ready to use, allow frozen Camembert to thaw in the fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving it to reheat directly, as this can lead to an uneven melt. Instead, place the cheese in the oven or a warm pan to gently bring it back to its gooey state.

Storing or freezing leftover baked Camembert is a simple process that ensures you can savor this rich, flavorful cheese later.

Properly cooling, wrapping, and using airtight containers help maintain its texture and taste.

While freezing may cause a slight change in texture, the overall quality remains high if the cheese is stored correctly.

Whether you’re using it within a few days or freezing it for a longer period, leftover baked Camembert can be successfully preserved and enjoyed in a variety of delicious ways.

1. Can I reheat leftover baked Camembert?

Yes, you can reheat leftover baked Camembert. The best way to do this is by placing it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 180°C or 350°F) for 10-15 minutes until it’s warm and gooey again. Be cautious not to overheat it, as the cheese can become too runny or grainy.

Microwaving is not recommended, as it can heat the cheese unevenly and alter its texture.

2. Can I freeze leftover baked Camembert?

Yes, leftover baked Camembert can be frozen. To freeze, allow the cheese to cool completely, then wrap it in parchment paper or wax paper before placing it in an airtight, freezer-safe container.

Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Be aware that freezing may slightly change the texture, making the cheese a bit grainier when thawed, but the flavor will remain rich and creamy.

3. How long does leftover baked Camembert last in the fridge?

Leftover baked Camembert will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days if stored properly.

After allowing the cheese to cool completely, wrap it tightly in parchment or wax paper and store it in an airtight container. For the best flavor and texture, try to consume it within this timeframe.

4. What can I do with leftover baked Camembert if I don’t want to reheat it?

If you don’t want to reheat leftover baked Camembert, you can incorporate it into various dishes. It can be used as a spread for bread or crackers, stirred into mashed potatoes, added to a salad for extra creaminess, or even used as a topping for a baked potato.

You can also mix it into pasta sauces or use it in quiches and savory tarts for a decadent meal.

5. Can leftover baked Camembert be used in cold dishes?

Yes, leftover baked Camembert can be used in cold dishes. You can crumble or slice the chilled cheese and add it to salads or sandwiches.

The cheese’s bold flavor and creamy texture will enhance cold dishes without needing to be reheated. Be mindful that the consistency of baked Camembert will be firmer when cold, but it will still have a delightful taste.

Sources

Maria G. Brooks

Hello! I’m Maria G. Brooks, a professional chef, passionate recipe maker, and a true food lover at heart. I wanted to create a space where anyone—from experienced chefs to beginners—could find delicious recipes, practical cooking tips, and simple kitchen hacks. My goal was to break down the barriers that often make cooking seem intimidating.

12+ Delicious Ideas for What to Do with Leftover Baked Camembert!