Claire'S Baked Macaroni And Cheese
A comforting baked macaroni and cheese with fresh tomatoes, layered with cheese and seasoned for a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up tomatoes with juice in a bowl and set aside.
- Cook ziti for about 10 minutes and drain.
- Using a casserole dish, start with tomato sauce and line the bottom of the pan.
- Layer with cooked ziti, cheese slices, tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper, then dot with margarine.
- Continue layering and end with the tomatoes on top.
- Bake at 350°F for about 45 to 50 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream between layers. You can substitute cheddar cheese with a blend of mozzarella and gouda for a different flavor profile. If you're out of margarine, butter works just as well. To enhance the taste, try adding a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to the cheese layer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious baked macaroni and cheese alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Zucchini as a side dish. For a heartier option, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms in the layers for extra flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, adding a little water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Claire'S Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 14 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free pasta. There are many great options available that will work well in this baked macaroni and cheese. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can vary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes between the layers. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference to make it perfect for your taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. If baking from cold, you may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).