Spaghetti And Tomatoes Au Gratin
A comforting pasta dish featuring spaghetti baked with a savory tomato and onion sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- Drain and rinse with cold water, then drain again.
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until transparent.
- Drain canned whole tomatoes, reserving juice to dissolve cornstarch.
- Mash tomatoes in a bowl.
- Combine mashed tomatoes with salt, sugar, and white pepper.
- Bring the tomato mixture to a boil in a saucepan.
- Dissolve cornstarch in the reserved tomato juice.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the boiling tomatoes, stirring constantly until thickened and raw starch taste disappears.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and sautéed onion to the tomato sauce and mix well.
- Transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, but make sure to peel them first. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture. For a lighter version, substitute whole wheat spaghetti or use gluten-free noodles. You can also try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Spaghetti And Tomatoes Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For an Italian-inspired meal, consider serving it alongside your favorite Italian recipes like Cheesy Italian Potatoes. A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the dish well, enhancing the tomato flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Tomatoes Au Gratin contains roughly 547 calories, with 28g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2428mg per serving (106% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti and tomato sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them before baking. This can be done the night before, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
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).