Save A creamy, festive pasta dish featuring melted Brie cheese, sweet-tart cranberries, and a buttery crumb topping inspired by the flavors of holiday tartlets
This pasta quickly became a family favorite during the holidays because of its unique tartlet-inspired flavors and simple preparation
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) short pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or rigatoni), 1 tbsp kosher salt (for pasta water)
- Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 garlic cloves minced, 200 g (7 oz) Brie cheese rind trimmed and cubed, 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 ml (¼ cup) whole milk, 75 g (½ cup) dried cranberries chopped, 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish), ¼ tsp ground black pepper, ½ tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- Tartlet-Inspired Topping: 40 g (⅓ cup) panko breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp unsalted butter, 30 g (¼ cup) chopped toasted walnuts (optional)
- Garnish: 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, Additional dried cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dent. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) pasta water then drain pasta
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile in a large skillet over medium heat melt 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and saut for 1 minute until fragrant
- Step 3:
- Add chopped Brie heavy cream and milk. Stir gently until the Brie melts and forms a smooth sauce about 34 minutes
- Step 4:
- Stir in chopped dried cranberries thyme black pepper and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 23 minutes
- Step 5:
- Add drained pasta to the sauce tossing to coat. If needed add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired sauce consistency
- Step 6:
- For the topping In a small pan melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs (and walnuts if using) and toast until golden about 23 minutes. Remove from heat
- Step 7:
- Serve pasta in bowls topped with buttery crumbs fresh parsley and extra cranberries if desired. Garnish with extra thyme
Save This dish reminds me of joyful holiday dinners shared with family bringing warmth and celebration to the table
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Small pan Wooden spoon Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (Brie cheese butter cream milk) Wheat (pasta panko) Tree nuts (walnuts optional) Check ingredient labels if concerned about cross-contamination with nuts or gluten
Nutritional Information
Calories 540 Total Fat 27 g Carbohydrates 55 g Protein 16 g per serving
Save This tartlet pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine and brings festive cheer to any meal
Kitchen Guide
- → What pasta types work best with this dish?
Short pastas like fusilli, penne, or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well, allowing every bite to be flavorful.
- → Can I substitute walnuts in the crumb topping?
Yes, pecans make a great alternative, or you can omit nuts entirely for a nut-free option.
- → How do I get the Brie to melt smoothly into the sauce?
Removing the rind and melting Brie slowly over medium heat with cream and milk helps create a silky, even sauce.
- → What is the best way to toast the panko crumbs?
Toast panko in melted butter over medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning and ensure even crispness.
- → Can I add greens to this dish?
Adding baby spinach or arugula during the final step adds a fresh, savory note and vibrant color.
- → What wines pair nicely with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy cheese and tart cranberries beautifully.