Spicy Baked Macaroni

Name: Spicy Baked Macaroni
Yield: 8 to 10 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni pasta; 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1/2 pound assorted mushrooms, quartered; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, chopped; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice; 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup plus 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup plus 1/3 cup freshly grated Romano cheese; 2 tablespoons butter, softened, plus 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces; 12 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed; 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

January 26, 2012

When I have friends over to watch sports or an awards show, this is often on the menu. It’s comfort food with lots of colorful vegetables and a spicy kick. Make it the day before and reheat it; the flavor improves the longer it sits, which is what you want in a dish for entertaining.

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