Tomato And Cheese Macaroni
A creamy, cheesy tomato macaroni baked to perfection, blending sharp Cheddar, Parmesan, and savory tomatoes with tender pasta—ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling, salted water until barely done. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion in 3 tablespoons of butter until translucent.
- Add the canned tomatoes with liquid, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, breaking up the tomatoes.
- Add the cooked macaroni, sour cream, and grated Cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top with 2 tablespoons of butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or substituting with Greek yogurt. If you're out of Cheddar, any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda can work well. Enhance flavor by incorporating garlic or fresh herbs. You could also replace macaroni with whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, making it part of your vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato and Cheese Macaroni pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish further. For a comforting dessert, consider serving with Tom'S Favorite Frosting for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato And Cheese Macaroni contains roughly 277 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1393mg per serving (61% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni mixture and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking. Just add the butter and Parmesan topping right before you bake it to ensure a crispy finish.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent option, providing a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency. You could also use crème fraîche or a non-dairy yogurt for a dairy-free version.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this Tomato and Cheese Macaroni is kid-friendly with its cheesy goodness and mild flavors. You can even involve kids in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity while encouraging them to enjoy cooking.
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).