For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of dry sherry or white wine to the mushroom mixture. Feel free to substitute other types of pasta, such as penne or cavatappi, if ditalini is unavailable. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference for heat. If you don't have a cast iron skillet, you can use any oven-safe skillet or baking dish. You may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. For a richer flavor, use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream.
Cremini and Spinach Cheesy Ditalini Skillet
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PREP TIME25 mins
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COOK TIME50 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 15 mins
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SERVING8 People
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VIEWS10
Dive into a symphony of flavors with this elevated take on mac and cheese. Featuring earthy cremini mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked ditalini pasta, all embraced by a luscious, creamy sauce and a crisp, golden topping. This skillet sensation is comfort food at its finest.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate51 g
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Cholesterol42 mg
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Fiber3 g
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Protein20 g
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Saturated Fat9 g
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Sodium323 mg
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Sugar7 g
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Fat16 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPreheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
02
StepBring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook ditalini in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until al dente, about 9 minutes (it will continue to cook in the oven). Strain and set aside.
03
StepIn a 12-inch cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add pepper flakes and garlic powder; let bubble for about 1 minute. Add onion, shallots, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper; cook and stir until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add mushrooms, thyme sprigs, and another generous pinch of salt and pepper; cook for 3 more minutes.
04
StepAdd spinach and another pinch of salt; cover and cook until spinach has wilted, 2 to 3 minutes. Add flour and mustard powder; stir until it has been fully absorbed. Cook and stir for 1 more minute.
05
StepSlowly pour in milk, making sure to scrape the bottom for any crusty bits; continue until all of the milk has been absorbed. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to stir until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
06
StepRemove the sauce from the heat. Pluck out and discard the thyme sprigs. Stir in Cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Fold in cooked ditalini until everything is nicely combined.
07
StepIn a bowl, whisk together bread crumbs, garlic, 1 tablespoon Grana Padano cheese, thyme leaves, and a good pinch of salt and pepper for the topping. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil at a time, working it into the crumbs until they are moistened and crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the skillet.
08
StepBake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden brown on top, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and set on a wire rack to cool slightly.
09
StepGarnish with extra Grana Padano and fresh parsley before serving.
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Greta Russel
Jul 1, 2025The breadcrumb topping adds a wonderful crunch. I'll definitely be making this again!
Daryl Nikolaus
Jun 27, 2025Easy to follow instructions and delicious results!
Lupe Hickle
Jun 26, 2025This recipe is amazing! The caramelized mushrooms and creamy sauce are to die for.
Dallas Hamill
Jun 26, 2025I found that using a bit of nutmeg in the cheese sauce really enhanced the flavor.
Una Kerluke
Jun 22, 2025I added some bacon to the skillet, and it was a huge hit!
Katlynn Corwin
Jun 21, 2025My kids loved this! A great way to sneak in some spinach.
Myrtice Labadie
Jun 21, 2025I didn't have ditalini, so I used elbow macaroni, and it worked perfectly.