Mexaroni
Mexaroni combines cheesy macaroni with spicy green chili tomatoes and fresh peppers, offering a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni and cheese as directed on the package.
- Cook undrained tomatoes with green peppers until peppers are tender.
- Mix together the cooked macaroni and cheese with the tomato and green pepper mixture and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the macaroni and cheese. You can also substitute the green pepper with jalapeños for extra heat. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, ensure your macaroni and cheese is made with plant-based ingredients. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of Mex Rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mexaroni hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or shredded cheese for added flavor. It pairs well with a side of Spicy Beans And Rice or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, top it with crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture or serve alongside Tomato Hot Dip for a delicious appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexaroni contains roughly 132 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 instead of canned. Dice about 2-3 medium tomatoes and sauté them with the green peppers until they break down and soften. This will add a fresh flavor to the dish, but you may need to add a bit of water to achieve the right consistency.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional macaroni and cheese packaging usually contains gluten. However, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni. Just ensure that all the other ingredients, like canned tomatoes, are also labeled gluten-free.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese and the tomato mixture separately in advance. Combine them just before serving and heat through. This is a great option for meal prep or if you're hosting a gathering, allowing you to focus on other dishes.
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).