Macaroni And Tomato
A comforting and hearty pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce, ideal for quick weeknight dinners or casual family meals with optional hamburger for added protein.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni and chopped onion together for 8 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the macaroni mixture.
- Brown the hamburger, if using, and add it to the macaroni and tomato mixture.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a sprinkle of cheese while cooking. If you want to enhance the flavor, sauté the onion until caramelized before adding the macaroni. You can substitute the macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand, or use whole grain for a healthier option. This dish is great for using up pantry staples, making it a convenient choice for busy nights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and tomato hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad like Vegetable Salad Deluxe to balance the meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside protein-rich dishes like Debbie's Chili for a filling dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Tomato contains roughly 733 calories, with 13g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (27% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1012mg per serving (44% 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 make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by omitting the hamburger and using a vegetable-based broth instead of water. For added protein, consider mixing in some cooked lentils or chickpeas, which will contribute to the overall texture without compromising flavor.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
You can use canned diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, or even whole peeled tomatoes, depending on your preference. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, about 6-8 medium-sized ones, diced, would work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they break down.
How can I spice up this recipe?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the onions. You could also experiment with spices like Italian seasoning, paprika, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. This versatility allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
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).