Charcuterie Board Pasta Bake

Cooking pasta may seem simple, but achieving that perfect al dente texture is an art. To start, always use a large pot with plenty of water; this helps the pasta cook evenly. Use 4 to 6 quarts of water for every pound of pasta. Once the water comes to a rolling boil, add a generous amount of salt—about one tablespoon per quart. This not only seasons the pasta but also helps enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

Elevate your dinner game with the Charcuterie Board Pasta Bake, a delightful twist on traditional charcuterie. This hearty dish blends tender pasta with savory cured meats, fresh veggies, and a medley of gooey cheeses, all baked to perfection. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, it captures the artful essence of charcuterie in a warm, comforting meal. Discover how to create this delicious fusion and impress your guests with every savory bite.

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Ingredients

12 oz. uncooked pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup diced salami

1 cup diced prosciutto

1 cup diced pepperoni

1 cup sliced black olives

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients: To the skillet, add the diced salami, prosciutto, and pepperoni. Cook for another 5 minutes until they are slightly crispy. Stir in the black olives, cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach, and cook until the spinach wilts.

Mix Cheese: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, and the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat and vegetable mixture. Then, gently fold in the ricotta cheese mixture until well combined.

Assemble the Bake: Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

20 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings