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With the macaroni perfectly cooked and infused with the flavors from your choice of broth, it’s time to introduce the real stars of this recipe: the cheeses. Begin by lowering the heat to a gentle simmer. Add 8 ounces of cream cheese, cut into cubes, and allow it to soften in the warm pasta mixture. Cream cheese adds a velvety richness that creates a luxurious mouthfeel.

One-Pot Fruit Mac and Cheese

Discover the unique blend of flavors in One-Pot Fruit Mac and Cheese Delight, a refreshing twist on a classic comfort dish. This recipe combines creamy cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella with the vibrant sweetness of fruits such as apples, peaches, and berries, creating a dish that's both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this one-pot meal embraces simplicity and deliciousness, making cleanup a breeze and leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds. Explore this culinary adventure that harmonizes traditional and contemporary cooking, and elevate your mealtime experience!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz elbow macaroni

4 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup cream cheese, cubed

1 cup diced fruits (such as fresh apples, peaches, or mixed berries)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, enhances sweetness)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh herbs for garnish (like basil or chives, optional)

Instructions
 

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the uncooked elbow macaroni, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated.

    Cook the Pasta: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover with a lid, and allow it to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the majority of the liquid has been absorbed.

      Add Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, incorporate the cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese into the pot. Stir well until all the cheeses have melted into a creamy sauce.

        Incorporate Fruits: Carefully fold in your choice of diced fruits. If using apples, you can leave them raw for added crunch. For berries and peaches, gently stir them in while the dish is still warm to better release their natural flavors.

          Final Touches: For an added depth of flavor, stir in the nutmeg, if using. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the mac and cheese appears too dry, add a splash of milk until your desired creaminess is reached.

            Serve: Spoon the One-Pot Fruit Mac and Cheese into serving bowls. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Dive into this delightful twist on traditional mac and cheese and savor every bite!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings