Baked Brie with Caramelized Onions and Bacon
A delightful dish featuring a warm wheel of brie topped with caramelized onions and crispy bacon, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 wheel wheel of brie cheese You can substitute with camembert if preferred.
- 2 large onions Thinly sliced, sweet onions work beautifully.
- 4 slices bacon Chopped. Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar For a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adds a touch of acidity.
- to taste fresh thyme leaves Optional, but they impart a lovely aromatic flavor.
- Crackers or toasted baguette slices To serve.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C), and let the warmth fill your kitchen.
- Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions to the bacon fat, stirring frequently. Cook for about 15 minutes until they're soft and golden. Stir in brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until caramelized.
- Prepare the Brie: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place your wheel of brie. Use a sharp knife to score the top in a crisscross pattern — this helps the cheese melt beautifully.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the caramelized onions over the brie, followed by the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for that aromatic touch.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the brie is gooey and the edges turn golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Let the brie rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
Consider adding a drizzle of honey before serving for an extra layer of sweetness. Try adding a teaspoon of minced garlic to the onions or mixing in some dried herbs for more flavor depth. Sprinkle over some toasted nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for added texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.