Tomato, Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy macaroni combined with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese creates a comforting, family-friendly dish full of flavor and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together tomato sauce and pepper to taste.
- Lightly spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the tomato sauce mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Add tomato slices on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic with the tomato sauce. You can substitute whole wheat macaroni for a healthier option or use a different cheese like mozzarella for a milder taste. For a vegetarian twist, add in some cooked vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. This dish is great for using up pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato, Macaroni And Cheese pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting dessert, finish with something sweet like Danny'S Peach Pudding for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato, Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 308 calories, with 13g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 783mg per serving (34% 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 tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Simply chop them and cook them down with some seasoning until they form a sauce-like consistency. This will add a fresh flavor to your dish.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Kids usually love macaroni and cheese, and the addition of tomato sauce adds a nice twist. You can adjust the pepper to keep it mild for younger palates.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
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).