Tomato Macaroni
Tomato Macaroni is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender macaroni coated in a flavorful tomato sauce infused with oregano and buttery richness. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a simple yet satisfying taste of classic comfort food with a hint of fresh tomato brightness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat tomatoes, butter, 1 teaspoon salt, and oregano to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the tomato sauce cooks, bring 6 cups of water to a boil and add 3 teaspoons of salt.
- Add macaroni to the boiling water and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 7 to 10 minutes or until tender.
- Drain the macaroni and transfer to a serving dish.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the macaroni and sprinkle with cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or diced onions to the tomato sauce while it simmers. If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or milk just before serving. For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the macaroni. Experimenting with herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the dish’s taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato Macaroni with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top adds a delicious finishing touch. For a heartier option, pair it with protein like grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables, making it a well-rounded dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the macaroni and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it, covering the dish to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Macaroni contains roughly 925 calories, with 7g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (155% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), and calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 32g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, canned tomatoes work well for this recipe. Just make sure to drain them if they are packed in juice. You can use diced, crushed, or whole canned tomatoes, adjusting the simmering time based on the type you choose.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Tomato Macaroni gluten-free, simply substitute traditional elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that will cook similarly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
What can I add for extra protein?
For extra protein, consider adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the tomato sauce. You can also mix in some canned beans like kidney or cannellini beans for a vegetarian option that boosts protein while keeping the dish hearty.
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).