Sausage Baked Brie
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bursting with savory flavors and irresistible creaminess, this Sausage Baked Brie recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine melting warm brie cheese wrapped with perfectly seasoned sausage, baked until golden and bubbly—it’s the ultimate effortless appetizer that will impress your guests or elevate your weeknight gathering. Quick to prepare and loaded with taste, Sausage Baked Brie is exactly what your appetizer menu has been missing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together effortlessly in under 30 minutes.
- Ultimate Flavor Combo: The rich creaminess of brie pairs perfectly with savory sausage for a flavor explosion.
- Great for Entertaining: A show-stopping appetizer that looks fancy but is easy to make.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit for customizable snacking.
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings anytime of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage Baked Brie recipe keeps things straightforward while packing a punch in every bite. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and aroma that makes this dish stand out.
- Brie cheese wheel: The star ingredient, melting beautifully to create a creamy base.
- Ground sausage: Adds a savory, spiced touch that balances the richness of the brie.
- Garlic and onion: Fresh aromatics that boost flavor complexity without overpowering.
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary): Impart subtle earthiness and freshness to the dish.
- Olive oil or butter: Helps brown the sausage and adds richness.
- Optional add-ins (like honey or mustard): Elevate the flavor profile with sweet or tangy accents.
- Crackers or sliced baguette: Essential for dipping and enjoying every last bit.
Variations for Sausage Baked Brie
One of the best parts about this Sausage Baked Brie is how easy it is to adapt for your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to spice things up, keep it mild, or incorporate different textures, there’s a variation for everyone.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sausage mixture for heat.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey or maple syrup on top before baking for a touch of sweetness.
- Vegetarian Swap: Use plant-based sausage alternatives to keep it meat-free without sacrificing flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with sage, oregano, or basil depending on the flavor you prefer.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top after baking for added texture.
How to Make Sausage Baked Brie
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage Mixture
Start by browning the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Add finely chopped garlic and onion, letting them soften and become fragrant. Stir in your choice of fresh herbs and any seasonings. Remove from heat and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prep the Brie
While the sausage cooks, slice off the top rind of your brie wheel to expose the creamy interior for easier mixing and melting. You can leave the sides intact to keep a perfect shape for baking.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the brie to a small oven-safe dish or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the exposed top of the brie, pressing slightly so it adheres well.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled brie in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sausage topping looks bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Pull it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving to avoid burns. Grab your favorite crackers, sliced baguette, or crunchy veggies and dive into this gooey, flavorful delight!
Pro Tips for Making Sausage Baked Brie
- Choose quality sausage: A flavorful sausage will make all the difference in your finished dish.
- Don’t overcook the brie: Keep an eye on your bake to avoid the cheese oozing too much and becoming greasy.
- Use fresh herbs: They add a bright, fresh element that complements the richness beautifully.
- Let it rest briefly: After baking, allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes so the cheese thickens slightly for easier dipping.
- Add texture contrasts: Consider sprinkling nuts or serving with apple slices for crunch and sweetness.
How to Serve Sausage Baked Brie
Garnishes
Fresh herbs sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness. For a touch of sweetness and contrast, drizzle with honey or add thin slices of apple or pear to the serving platter.
Side Dishes
Pair this warm appetizer with hearty crusty bread or an assortment of crackers. Fresh cut vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers make refreshing dippers that balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Sausage Baked Brie on a wooden cheese board surrounded by nuts, fruits, and cured meats for a stunning charcuterie-style spread that will impress every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Sausage Baked Brie in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it perfect for enjoying the next day.
Freezing
This dish does not freeze well once baked because of the soft texture of the cheese, but you can freeze the raw sausage mixture separately for up to one month to save prep time later.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave to maintain the creamy texture and prevent the cheese from separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Brie is ideal because of its meltiness and mild flavor, but you can substitute camembert if you want a similar creamy texture with a slightly stronger taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The Sausage Baked Brie itself is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage and serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread.
How spicy is the dish?
The spice level depends on the type of sausage you choose; you can keep it mild with sweet sausage or add heat with spicy Italian or chorizo.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can cook the sausage mixture and assemble the dish in advance, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake, just add 5 extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftover Sausage Baked Brie tastes fantastic on toasted sandwiches or melted over roasted veggies for a savory boost.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and impressive about a warm, gooey Sausage Baked Brie that makes every gathering feel special. This recipe truly delivers big flavor with minimal fuss, making it the perfect choice for a fast, delicious appetizer you can whip up tonight. Give it a try and watch how quickly everyone reaches for seconds—it’s a winner every single time!
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Sausage Baked Brie
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sausage Baked Brie recipe is an irresistible appetizer featuring a wheel of creamy brie cheese topped with savory, seasoned ground sausage, baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for entertaining or cozy nights, it comes together quickly using simple ingredients and offers versatile serving options with crackers, bread, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Cheese
- 1 wheel of Brie cheese (approximately 8 ounces)
Sausage Mixture
- 8 ounces ground sausage
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or mustard for flavoring
- Optional: red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat
For Serving
- Crackers or sliced baguette
- Fresh fruit such as apple or pear slices
- Optional: toasted pecans or walnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage Mixture: Brown the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Add finely chopped garlic and onion, cooking until softened and fragrant. Stir in fresh herbs and any optional seasonings like honey, mustard, or red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Prep the Brie: Slice off the top rind of the brie wheel to expose the creamy interior; keep the sides intact to maintain shape while baking.
- Assemble the Dish: Place the brie on a small oven-safe dish or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Evenly spoon the cooked sausage mixture over the exposed top of the brie, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled brie for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sausage topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and let cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Pair with crackers, sliced baguette, fresh fruit, or veggies for dipping and enjoy the gooey, savory appetizer.
Notes
- Choose quality sausage for best flavor.
- Watch the baking time carefully to avoid overcooking the brie, which can become greasy.
- Use fresh herbs to brighten the dish.
- Allow the baked brie to rest briefly before serving to thicken for easier dipping.
- Add texture contrasts like toasted nuts or fresh fruit slices for a balanced bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximate)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Sausage Baked Brie, appetizer, baked cheese, party recipe, easy appetizer, savory cheese, game day snack
