Macaroni, Cheese And Tomatoes
Creamy macaroni combined with tender tomatoes and melted cheese creates a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni as directed on the package.
- Layer half of the cooked macaroni in a casserole dish.
- Slice half of the Velveeta cheese and layer it on top of the macaroni.
- Spread 1 1/2 cans of chopped tomatoes over the cheese layer.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbly, approximately 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of milk or cream to the cheese layer. If you prefer a sharper flavor, substitute Velveeta with sharp cheddar cheese. You can also toss in some cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. For a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes between the layers.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni, cheese, and tomatoes dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crunchy Waldorf salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese before baking for a crispy crust.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Cheese And Tomatoes contains roughly 66 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian, but to enhance the flavors, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also replace the Velveeta with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it fully vegan if desired.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake it, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be starting from a cold state.
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).