Sunday Macaroni
Creamy and cheesy macaroni with tomatoes, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings. Rich flavors and easy to prepare for quick, satisfying meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain and return to the saucepan.
- Stir in margarine, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Add salt, black pepper, sugar, and chopped or blended tomatoes to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Optional: sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk or adding a dollop of sour cream. If you're out of cheddar cheese, you can substitute with mozzarella or any cheese that melts well. To add a flavor boost, try incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers. For a vegetarian twist, add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the mix. This dish pairs beautifully with Autumn Apple Bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni dish alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with garlic bread or crusty rolls for a comforting family dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of Dot Hinshaw'S Peach Ice Cream for dessert, bringing a sweet finish to your meal.
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 retain moisture, heating at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunday Macaroni contains roughly 231 calories, with 8g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2031mg per serving (88% 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 gluten-free macaroni for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use gluten-free macaroni to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure the cooking time matches your pasta's instructions. The rest of the ingredients should be gluten-free as well, but double-check any packaged items like cheese and margarine.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce before baking. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving. Adjust the spice level to your preference to give this comforting dish an exciting kick.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture in advance, store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and then bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for hosting gatherings.
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).