This tomato macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of creamy cheese with the tanginess of tomatoes. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with additional ingredients like vegetables or different types of cheese to enhance the flavor.
Comforting Creaminess
Tomato macaroni and cheese offers a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. The creamy cheese sauce envelops each piece of elbow pasta, creating a comforting dish that is hard to resist.
The addition of diced tomatoes introduces a tangy twist, balancing the richness of the cheese. This combination not only elevates the taste but also adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This recipe is designed for simplicity, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
Start by cooking the macaroni until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. While the pasta cooks, you can prepare the cheese sauce, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients in this dish are straightforward yet impactful. Elbow macaroni serves as the base, while shredded cheddar cheese creates the creamy sauce that everyone loves.
Diced tomatoes add a fresh element, and the seasoning with garlic and onion powders enhances the overall flavor profile. Fresh basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top for a burst of freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
Once your tomato macaroni and cheese is ready, it’s time to serve! Ladle the creamy mixture into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper for that extra touch.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread, making it a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to boost the nutritional value.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.
Nutritional Information
This comforting dish serves four and packs a satisfying punch with 450 calories per serving. With 20 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein, it provides a balanced meal option for the family.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a cozy meal on a chilly evening, tomato macaroni and cheese is sure to hit the spot.
Easy Tomato Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This dish features macaroni pasta cooked in a rich cheese sauce with diced tomatoes for added flavor. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add Cheese and Tomatoes: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add the diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Serve: Spoon the tomato macaroni and cheese into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 50g