Savory baked brie with garlic and herbs

### Instructions

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cheese from sticking.

2. **Prepare the Brie:**
– Place the brie cheese in the prepared baking dish or skillet. If you prefer, you can leave the rind on, as it softens when baked and adds flavor. However, if you prefer a rindless brie, you can carefully slice off the rind, but be cautious not to disturb the shape of the cheese.

3. **Prepare the Garlic and Herb Topping:**
– In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
– Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and lemon zest, and mix everything well to combine.

4. **Top the Brie:**
– Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the brie cheese. Then, spoon the garlic and herb mixture on top of the cheese, spreading it evenly over the surface.

5. **Bake the Brie:**
– Place the brie in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has softened and is starting to ooze out of its rind. You should be able to gently press the center of the cheese and feel it giving way to a gooey interior.
– Keep an eye on the brie during baking to ensure it doesn’t overcook. You want it melted and warm but not fully liquefied.

6. **Optional Honey Drizzle:**
– For an added layer of flavor, drizzle a small amount of honey over the baked brie once it’s out of the oven. The sweetness of the honey perfectly balances the savory garlic and herbs.

7. **Serve:**
– Serve the savory baked brie immediately while it’s warm and melty. Pair it with slices of fresh baguette, crackers, or an assortment of fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot sticks, or apple slices.

### Tips for the Best Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs:

– **Choosing the Brie:** Look for a ripe, soft brie with a creamy texture. If you’re unsure, ask your local cheesemonger for a recommendation. A good-quality brie will melt beautifully and provide the rich, velvety texture you’re aiming for.
– **Herb Variations:** While rosemary, thyme, and parsley are classic choices, feel free to get creative with the herbs. Try adding basil, sage, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
– **Serving Suggestions:** This dish pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. For a more festive touch, you can serve it with toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra depth of flavor.
– **Make-Ahead:** You can prepare the garlic and herb topping in advance, so when you’re ready to bake the brie, it’s as simple as assembling and putting it in the oven. Just store the garlic mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

### Why You’ll Love This Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs

**Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs** is the perfect balance of richness and freshness, offering a warm and inviting dish that’s simple yet impressive. The creamy, gooey brie combined with the earthy, aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic creates a symphony of flavors that’s sure to impress your guests.

This appetizer is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner or enjoying a casual evening with friends, this dish is sure to elevate any gathering. The combination of savory ingredients, like garlic and herbs, with the mild, rich flavor of brie cheese will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crispy crackers, slices of fresh baguette, or even as a topping for roasted vegetables, and you’ve got an appetizer that will disappear in minutes. **Savory Baked Brie with Garlic and Herbs** is destined to become your new go-to dish for any occasion.