Choosing quality ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Growing up in southern England, I learned early on that simple, fresh components are the backbone of good cooking. When selecting your sausage, opt for something flavorful but not overpowering—think mild Italian or a breakfast sausage that brings a hint of spice. And the brie? Look for a creamy wheel that melts beautifully; this makes all the difference when you cut into that golden crust.

• 1 wheel (8 ounces) of brie cheese
• 8 ounces of mild Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 sheet of puff pastry (optional, for wrapping)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash if using puff pastry)

If you want to keep it gluten-free, skip the puff pastry and bake the brie and sausage mixture in a small oven-safe dish. For a vegetarian twist, swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions—they bring a similar depth of flavor.