Macaroni, Tomato And Cheese Casserole
A comforting baked pasta casserole featuring tender macaroni layered with fresh tomatoes and melted cheddar cheese. The dish offers a delightful combination of creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and al dente pasta, making it a perfect hearty meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the macaroni according to box directions and drain.
- Grate the cheddar cheese and divide into thirds.
- Drain the canned tomatoes and save the juice.
- Chop the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In the bottom of a 2-quart casserole dish, layer half of the chopped tomatoes, then one-third of the cheese, and half of the cooked macaroni.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tomatoes, cheese, and macaroni.
- Pour the saved tomato juice over the top layer of macaroni.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole dish and bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the layers. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a different flavor. If you want to boost nutrition, add some cooked vegetables like spinach or broccoli between the layers. This dish is great for using up pantry staples or leftovers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Jim'S Baked Potatoes, adding a comforting touch. For a fun twist, consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Tomato And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 196 calories, with 10g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% 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 whole wheat macaroni instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be used as a healthier alternative. It will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as whole wheat pasta may take slightly longer to cook.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I do if I don't have canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead. Simply chop about 4-5 medium tomatoes and add them to the casserole. Alternatively, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce can work as a substitute, adjusting the amount of liquid based on your preference.
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).