Macaroni And Cheese With Tomatoes
Creamy macaroni baked with tender tomatoes and sautéed onion creates a comforting dish packed with rich flavors. The cheesy topping complements the tangy tomatoes, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Warm, hearty, and flavorful, it's a simple yet satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Peel and chop the large onion.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Open the large can of stewed tomatoes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine milk, shredded Cheddar cheese, stewed tomatoes, and chopped onion.
- Pour the cooked macaroni into a baking dish.
- Pour the tomato-cheese mixture over the macaroni and stir to combine.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For creamier macaroni and cheese, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar with Gouda or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. This recipe works well with whole grain or gluten-free macaroni for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Helen'S Macaroni And Cheese, offering a delightful contrast in flavors. For a heartier option, you can add cooked ground beef or sausage to the mixture before baking.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to restore creaminess while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese With Tomatoes contains roughly 527 calories, with 13g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to peel and chop them before adding to the mixture. Fresh tomatoes might require a bit of seasoning since canned tomatoes often have added salt and flavor. Consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity if using fresh tomatoes.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the cheese, consider a vegan cheese alternative or a homemade cashew cheese for creaminess. Replace the stewed tomatoes with a similar amount of pureed tomatoes for a flavorful base.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of olive oil or butter before mixing it with the other ingredients. Adding spices like garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce can give it a nice depth. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also add a burst of freshness.
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).