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Comfort food is more than just sustenance; it is a warm embrace that transports us back to cherished memories and family gatherings. For many, the rich, creamy texture of mac and cheese stands as a quintessential representation of this culinary nostalgia. It embodies the essence of home cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary. Today, we invite you to elevate this beloved classic with a modern twist: One-Pot Charcuterie Mac and Cheese.

One-Pot Charcuterie Mac and Cheese

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pot Charcuterie Mac and Cheese, where tradition meets gourmet flavors. Infused with creamy cheeses, savory meats, and vibrant vegetables, this dish turns a beloved classic into an exciting culinary experience. Enjoy the convenience of one-pot cooking that simplifies meal prep and clean-up, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights. Indulge in this rich, flavorful dish and elevate your comfort food game!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni (or pasta of your choice)

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

½ cup chopped salami

½ cup diced prosciutto

½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon

½ cup diced pepperoni

1 cup diced bell peppers (use a mix of colors for visual appeal)

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, thyme, and basil)

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, drizzle a splash of olive oil and heat over medium. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.

    Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden.

      Combine Pasta and Broth: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir vigorously to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

        Cook Pasta: Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the macaroni cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

          Add Cream and Cheese: Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, pour in the heavy cream and then add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely, creating a rich and creamy sauce.

            Incorporate Charcuterie: Carefully fold in the chopped salami, diced prosciutto, crumbled bacon, and diced pepperoni. Mix well to ensure the meats are evenly distributed throughout the cheesy pasta.

              Season: Sprinkle the dried Italian herbs over the mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper to elevate the flavors. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

                Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the mac and cheese hot, and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors!

                  Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4-6 servings