Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes is not just a dish; it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times when food was made with love and shared among family. This delightful recipe combines the heartiness of macaroni with the fresh, tangy flavor of tomatoes, creating a comforting meal that warms both the body and soul. Whether you grew up enjoying this classic comfort food or are discovering it for the first time, you’ll find that this dish is as satisfying as it is simple.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a recipe that offers both ease of preparation and rich flavor can be challenging. But Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes checks all the boxes—it’s affordable, quick to prepare, and uses ingredients that are often already in your pantry. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for gatherings, this recipe invites everyone to savor every comforting bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the main reasons you’ll adore Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The combination of tender macaroni enveloped in savory tomato sauce creates a delightful harmony that appeals to all ages.
Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it more filling or nutritious. Want to make it vegetarian? Just skip the meat! On top of that, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover pasta or tomatoes, making it a sustainable choice for those looking to reduce waste in their kitchens.
Key Ingredients
The beauty of Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Macaroni: The star of the dish; choose elbow macaroni or any short pasta for best results.
- Canned Tomatoes: Use diced or crushed tomatoes for a rich flavor base; they provide acidity and sweetness.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic qualities.
- Cheddar Cheese: Optional but recommended; adds creaminess and richness when melted on top.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors in the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves over medium heat. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in two 14-ounce cans of diced tomatoes (with juices) into the pot with sautéed onions and garlic. Let simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Toss Pasta: Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the tomato mixture. Stir well until all pasta is fully coated with sauce.
- Add Seasoning: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, mix in cooked meat or vegetables at this point for added nutrition.
- Melt Cheese (Optional): For an extra layer of comfort, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving. Cover the pot until cheese melts, approximately 3-5 minutes.
Expert Tips
If you’re looking to elevate your Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes experience, here are some expert tips. First, consider using fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an added smoky flavor that enhances depth in your dish. Second, don’t hesitate to experiment with spices—adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your recipe a delightful kick without overwhelming its classic taste. Third, let your dish sit for about five minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully while making it easier to plate.
Presentation Ideas
Your Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes will look even more inviting when served creatively. Consider plating individual servings in rustic bowls topped with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Adding a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving not only elevates flavor but also enhances visual appeal. For casual gatherings, serve family-style straight from the pot with warm crusty bread on the side for dipping; this encourages sharing and creates an inviting atmosphere at any table.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can certainly use fresh tomatoes! However, keep in mind that you’ll need approximately 6-8 medium-sized ripe tomatoes peeled and chopped to equal two cans’ worth. Fresh tomatoes will require longer cooking times since they contain more moisture than canned varieties.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Easily! Simply substitute traditional macaroni with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores today. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free too if necessary.
This recipe seems too basic; how can I add more flavor?
If you want extra layers of flavor without complicating things too much, consider incorporating herbs like oregano or thyme during cooking. Additionally, sautéing some bell peppers along with onions can brighten up flavors significantly!
Can leftovers be stored? How should I reheat them?
Your Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating leftovers on either stovetop or microwave settings, add a splash of water or broth if needed; this helps restore moisture lost during refrigeration while preventing drying out!
Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the comforting flavors of Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes, a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. With its simple yet delicious blend of macaroni and tangy tomatoes, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful side dish, you can customize it to suit your taste while enjoying every satisfying bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 (14-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes with juices and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the drained macaroni to the pot and mix well until coated in tomato sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper. If desired, mix in cooked meat or vegetables.
- Optional: Sprinkle cheese on top and cover the pot until melted, about 3-5 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg