When it comes to pasta, there are countless shapes and sizes to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. One such shape that often gets overlooked is the humble ditalini. But don’t be fooled – this small, cylindrical pasta has a lot of flavor potential! In fact, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious ditalini recipes that showcase just how versatile and tasty this little guy can be.
From creamy mac and cheese to spicy sausage pasta, and from garlic butter shrimp to refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone in our collection of ditalini recipes. So go ahead, get creative, and discover the many faces of this underappreciated pasta shape.
Creamy Ditalini Mac and Cheese
Creamy Ditalini Mac and Cheese Recipe
Looking for a comforting and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe? This dish is sure to become a family favorite! With a rich and velvety sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crispy topping, this creamy ditalini mac and cheese is the perfect comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with remaining butter.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Ditalini Sausage Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines spicy sausage with ditalini pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) ditalini pasta
– 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup (120g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and chopped basil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Ditalini with Shrimp
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and succulent shrimp with the perfect pasta, creating a delightful dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) ditalini pasta
– 4 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ditalini Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
This colorful pasta salad is a perfect side dish for any gathering. With its mix of al dente pasta, juicy veggies, and tangy dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, cherry tomatoes, cucumber)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed veggies, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss until veggies are well coated.
3. Add cooked pasta to the veggie mixture and toss until combined.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Ditalini Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the creamy taste of cheese with the softness of ditalini pasta, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. ditalini pasta
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Ditalini Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and comforting pasta. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces ditalini pasta
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Ditalini
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe, featuring tender ditalini filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ditalini according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, garlic, and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked ditalini with the spinach mixture, leaving about 1/4 inch at the top.
5. Place stuffed pasta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ditalini with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian combination is a perfect example of simplicity at its finest. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and colorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) ditalini pasta
– 1/2 cup (120ml) homemade or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint (250g) cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Add the cooked ditalini pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Ditalini with Chicken
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of chicken with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon and garlic. The result is a deliciously well-rounded pasta dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, lemon juice, and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ditalini and Meatball Bake
This comforting casserole is a perfect combination of al dente pasta, homemade meatballs, and rich tomato sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ditalini pasta
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
7. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
8. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Combine cooked pasta, meatballs, and tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Ditalini Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the heartiness of ditalini. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add roasted red peppers and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta with pepper mixture and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ditalini with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy mushroom sauce paired with al dente ditalini. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ditalini
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ditalini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked ditalini with mushroom cream sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Ditalini Skillet
A spicy and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the flavors of buffalo chicken with tender pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup ditalini pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in buffalo wing sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with chicken and sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and cook until melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ditalini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta
This light and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. By combining the natural sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tanginess of feta, you’ll create a taste sensation that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Ditalini pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Ditalini Casserole
A creamy and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of steamed broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, steam broccoli florets until tender; season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and cheese mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ditalini with Italian Sausage and Kale
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender pasta, flavorful sausage, and nutritious kale for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ditalini pasta
– 2 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausages over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped kale, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta with sausage mixture; toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon and Pea Ditalini Carbonara
A rich and creamy pasta dish gets a smoky twist with the addition of crispy bacon and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 6 slices of pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the fresh peas to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until tender. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the cooked pasta, pancetta or bacon, and pea mixture to the bowl. Toss everything together until well combined, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve creamy consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ditalini with Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this classic dish featuring ditalini pasta tossed in a decadent creamy alfredo sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked ditalini pasta with creamy alfredo sauce until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Ditalini Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and spicy recipe that combines the flavors of Italy with a kick of heat. This dish is perfect for those who like a little excitement in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz ditalini pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Arrabbiata sauce, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ditalini with Roasted Vegetables and Parmesan
This hearty pasta dish combines the comforting warmth of roasted vegetables with the nutty goodness of Parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a cozy package of Ditalini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz Ditalini pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook Ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta and roasted vegetables in a large bowl.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and toss gently to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Roasting time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 flavorful Ditalini recipes! From comforting classics like Creamy Mac and Cheese to bold twists like Spicy Sausage Pasta, there’s something for every taste bud. Indulge in rich and creamy sauces, savory meatball bakes, and fresh vegetable salads. Discover the perfect blend of comfort food and elegance with dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Ditalini or Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Ditalini. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for new ideas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
