As the oven begins to warm and fragrant aromas spiral through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement—it’s time for my favorite go-to party starter: Sausage Baked Brie. The creamy richness of brie combined with the savory sausage, sweet brown sugar, and crunch from walnuts creates an appetizer that never fails to impress. This gluten-free delight is not just quick to whip up but transforms an ordinary cheese wheel into a gourmet centerpiece that will have everyone gathering around. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, this dish offers the perfect balance of flavors that appeal to all palates. Curious about how to create this cheesy masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Why is Sausage Baked Brie so Amazing?
Decadent Flavors: The fusion of creamy brie and savory sausage, enhanced by brown sugar and walnuts, results in an unforgettable taste sensation that elevates your appetizer game.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet dish that takes minimal time yet packs maximum flavor—ideal for unexpected guests or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: This gluten-free delight brings everyone to the table, appealing to both cheese lovers and those seeking something beyond ordinary snacks.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix and match toppings—try adding diced apples or using turkey sausage for a lighter version, perfect for adapting to your guests’ preferences.
Elegant Presentation: Serving it warm ensures you have a stunning centerpiece that invites everyone to indulge, just like my favorite Baked Bbq Chicken adds a touch of comfort to any occasion.
Sausage Baked Brie Ingredients
For the Topping
- Butter – Adds richness and helps cook the sausage. Substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Pork Sausage – The main flavorful component, provides savory depth. Can be replaced with turkey sausage for a leaner alternative.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the savory sausage. White sugar or maple syrup may be used in a pinch.
- Walnuts – Provides crunch and texture, enhancing the dish’s richness. Pecans or almonds can serve as substitutes.
- Fresh Rosemary – Adds aroma and earthy flavor. Dried rosemary can be used if fresh is unavailable, but in smaller amounts.
For the Brie
- Brie Cheese – The star of the dish, creamy and melty. Camembert can be a good alternative if brie is not available.
For Serving
- Crostini – For serving, provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cheese. Pita chips or crackers can also work well for dipping.
This Sausage Baked Brie is not just an appetizer; it’s a delightful experience, making it a must-try for your next gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Baked Brie
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that when you place the dish inside, it will become perfectly bubbly and golden. Meanwhile, grab a small baking dish that’s just the right size to comfortably hold your brie wheel—this will create the perfect environment for the melting cheese.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is sizzling, add the pork sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to break up the sausage into small pieces—this will blend beautifully with the brie later on.
Step 3: Add Sweetness and Crunch
To the cooked sausage, stir in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary. Continue to cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a rich aroma. The sweetness from the brown sugar will perfectly contrast the savory sausage, creating a divine topping for your Sausage Baked Brie.
Step 4: Prepare the Brie
While the sausage mixture cools slightly, score the top of your brie wheel in a crisscross pattern, about 1/2 inch deep. This scoring allows the cheese to melt beautifully and absorb all those delicious flavors from the topping. Place the brie in the greased baking dish, ensuring it sits comfortably without spilling over.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Evenly spread the sausage mixture over the scored top of the brie. Make sure to cover the cheese entirely, allowing every bite to be packed full of flavor. It’s okay if some mixture falls to the sides—this adds to the dish’s charm and flavor as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the brie is bubbling and slightly golden. The irresistible scent will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Sausage Baked Brie is nearly ready to delight your guests.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the brie rest for about 5 minutes. Serve warm with crostini, pita chips, or your favorite crackers. The gooey, melted brie combined with the savory sausage topping creates a luscious experience that will have everyone coming back for more—it’s the perfect starter for any gathering!
Expert Tips for Sausage Baked Brie
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the sausage baked brie while it’s in the oven to prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery. Aim for bubbling and slight golden color.
- Remove the Rind: If you’re not fond of the brie rind, feel free to remove it before serving. It helps maintain the cheese’s shape during baking but is entirely optional.
- Sweeten it Up: For a unique twist, consider drizzling a little honey or maple syrup over the baked brie just before serving—it enhances the flavors and adds a delightful sweetness.
- Substitutions Possible: You can swap out the pork sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter option or use pecans if you don’t have walnuts on hand.
- Experiment with Herbs: While fresh rosemary is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try thyme or sage for a different aroma that complements the sausage baked brie beautifully.
Storage Tips for Sausage Baked Brie
Fridge: Store any leftover Sausage Baked Brie in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This helps retain its creamy texture and robust flavors, making it perfect for snacking later.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked brie without the topping for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To regain the gooey, melted texture, reheat the brie gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cheese rubbery.
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy it warm atop fresh crostini or pita chips for a delightful appetizer experience once more!
What to Serve with Sausage Baked Brie?
Elevate your appetizer game with mouthwatering sides that enhance the creamy, savory bliss of this delightful treat.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture provides a comforting contrast to the rich, gooey brie, perfect for making any gathering feel like a special occasion.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery greens add a refreshing crunch, helping to balance out the richness of the baked brie while creating a vibrant color on the plate. Toss with a lemon vinaigrette for a zesty kick!
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Roasted Veggies: Caramelized carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini bring warm, earthy flavors that beautifully complement the savory sausage topping, while their natural sweetness harmonizes with the brie’s creaminess.
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Crispy Pita Chips: These crunchy snacks pair perfectly with the soft brie, offering a delightful textural contrast. Plus, they’re great for scooping up that irresistible sausage mixture!
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Plum Jam: A sweet, fruity addition that enhances the flavors in the baked brie, creating a lovely balance between sweet and savory. Spread a little on your crostini for an elevated experience.
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Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly complements the richness of the dish beautifully, adding a touch of elegance and excitement to your gathering. Its effervescence also helps cleanse the palate between decadent bites.
Sausage Baked Brie: Creative Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish! The possibilities are endless, inviting you to explore new flavors and ingredients.
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Herb Variations: Try thyme or sage for a different aromatic twist. Each herb brings a unique flavor profile that enhances the richness of the brie.
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Fruit Fusion: Add diced apple or dried cranberry for a burst of sweetness that beautifully complements savory notes. The contrast of flavors will delight any palate.
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Nutty Alternatives: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts for a different texture and flavor. These nuts will still offer that lovely crunch while introducing new dimensions.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to add some heat to the mix. It’s a fantastic way to elevate the flavor profile and excite those who enjoy a little spice.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the pork sausage for mushrooms sautéed in olive oil for a hearty, vegetarian version. The earthy flavor of mushrooms provides a delightful and satisfying bite.
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Cheese Twist: Substitute brie with Camembert for a slightly different taste, or try a smoked cheese for a unique, gourmet experience. Each cheese offers a new layer of complexity to this dish.
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Savory Glaze: Drizzle with balsamic reduction or honey before serving. This enhances the overall sweetness and adds a lovely glossy finish.
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Cracker Selection: Instead of crostini, experiment with wine crackers or rice cakes for gluten-free options that maintain great texture. The right base enriches the flavor of your delicious topping.
As you explore these variations, remember to enjoy the process and create something that resonates with your taste buds. And if you’re looking for a complete meal experience, be sure to check out my Baked Bbq Chicken recipe for a delicious pairing!
Make Ahead Options
These Sausage Baked Brie are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the sausage topping up to 24 hours in advance—simply cook the sausage, brown sugar, walnuts, and rosemary as directed, then let it cool and refrigerate in an airtight container. For the brie, score it ahead of time and store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the topping with the brie in the baking dish and bake as instructed for 16-18 minutes. This way, you have a delectable appetizer that’s just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy more of your gathering instead of spending all your time in the kitchen!
Sausage Baked Brie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best brie cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing brie cheese, look for wheels that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch, with a creamy appearance and a nice white rind. Avoid any that have dark spots or an overly strong odor, as these could indicate spoilage. Fresh brie typically has a mild aroma and a smooth texture. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can also consider camembert, which has a slightly stronger flavor.
How should I store leftover Sausage Baked Brie?
Very! Store any leftover Sausage Baked Brie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from your fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the brie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its lovely melted texture.
Can I freeze Sausage Baked Brie?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked brie without toppings for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven. Baking the brie at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes will help restore its creamy consistency—just be careful not to overheat it.
What can I do if the brie isn’t melting properly?
If your Sausage Baked Brie isn’t melting well, it could be due to an underwhelming oven temperature or not baking it long enough. Make sure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) before putting it in. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—look for bubbles on the surface and a slight golden color. If you’re still having issues, consider scoring the top more deeply or increasing the baking time by a few minutes, being careful not to let it become rubbery.
Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Of course! The Sausage Baked Brie itself is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure your toppings and serving accompaniments like crostini are gluten-free as well. You can easily use gluten-free crackers or pita chips to make it perfect for your gluten-sensitive friends. Just check the labels to be safe, and you’ll have a deliciously inclusive appetizer that everyone can enjoy!
Can I substitute the sausage in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to make this dish a bit leaner, turkey sausage is a fantastic substitute for pork sausage. It provides a similar flavor profile while being lower in fat. You can also experiment with different flavor profiles by using chicken sausage or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option—just make sure to season it well, as plant-based options may lack some of the savory depth found in pork.
Sausage Baked Brie: Irresistibly Creamy and Savory Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and cook pork sausage for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Score the top of the brie wheel in a crisscross pattern about 1/2 inch deep and place it in a greased baking dish.
- Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the scored top of the brie.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes until the brie is bubbling and slightly golden.
- Let the brie rest for about 5 minutes. Serve warm with crostini or pita chips.