Tomato Bisque And Macaroni
A comforting and creamy tomato bisque combined with tender macaroni, this dish offers a rich tomato flavor balanced with the hearty texture of pasta. Perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner, it appeals to both kids and adults seeking a warm, satisfying meal with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until tender, then drain.
- Add the large can of tomatoes to the cooked macaroni.
- Heat the mixture until it is very hot but not boiling.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda to the hot mixture.
- Stir well to combine.
- Add milk gradually until the desired creamy consistency is reached, approximately 1 quart.
- Season with salt to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture. If you prefer a thicker bisque, blend the tomatoes before adding them to the macaroni. You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand. To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the milk used is free from any animal rennet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tomato bisque and macaroni hot, garnished with fresh basil or grated cheese for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, such as a Swinging Salad, for a complete meal. For added protein, consider serving it alongside Ham And Swiss Pinwheels.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture, and warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Bisque And Macaroni contains roughly 1044 calories, with 18g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1595mg per serving (69% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 4-5 cups of diced fresh tomatoes will work well. Just make sure to cook them down until soft before adding to the macaroni.
What if I want to make it gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the macaroni with a gluten-free pasta variety. Ensure that any other ingredients, like the baking soda and milk, are also certified gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when heating the tomato and macaroni mixture. Adjust to your preference for spice, but start with a small amount.
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).