Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes

Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes is a classic comfort food dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the tangy flavor of tomatoes. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in.

History

This recipe has been a staple in American households for decades, with variations popping up in different regions. The combination of macaroni, cheese, and tomatoes is a simple yet delicious one that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of elbow macaroni
1 cup of canned tomatoes or sauce
0.25 tsp of basil or dillweed
0.25 tsp of prepared mustard
1 pinch of pepper
0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp of crushed cornflakes

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni according to the package directions and then drain it.
Break up the tomatoes in their juice in a 4 cup casserole dish.
Stir in the basil, mustard, and pepper.
Add the macaroni and cheese and mix it lightly.
Sprinkle it with cornflake crumbs or bread crumbs.
Bake it at 350°F (177°C) for about 30 minutes or until the crumbs brown and the mixture is bubbly.

Variations

Add in cooked ground beef or sausage for a meaty twist.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the macaroni until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Feel free to add in other seasonings or vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

- For a crispy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta in place of macaroni.

- Substitute fresh tomatoes for canned if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in individual ramekins for a cute presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of red wine or a crisp salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 30g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a creamy cheese sauce, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked macaroni, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes. I was a young girl, still learning the ropes of cooking in my mother's kitchen. It was a hot summer day, and I had been rummaging through my mother's old recipe box, looking for something new and exciting to try.

As I sifted through the yellowed index cards, I came across a faded recipe for Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes. It was written in my grandmother's elegant script, a reminder of the days when she used to cook for our large family gatherings. I had never tried this recipe before, but the combination of creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and tender macaroni intrigued me.

I decided to give it a try, gathering the ingredients and setting to work in the kitchen. I boiled the macaroni until it was al dente, then mixed it with a creamy cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and plenty of sharp cheddar cheese. I added in a can of diced tomatoes, along with some seasonings like garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika for flavor.

As the dish baked in the oven, the smell of bubbling cheese and tangy tomatoes filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally done, I scooped out a generous portion onto my plate and took my first bite.

The combination of creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and tender macaroni was like nothing I had ever tasted before. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that warmed me from the inside out. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add in extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or swap out the cheddar cheese for a different variety like mozzarella or gouda. But no matter how I change it up, the basic combination of macaroni, cheese, and tomatoes remains the same.

I have shared this recipe with friends and family, passing it down through the generations just like my grandmother did for me. It has become a beloved favorite at potlucks and family gatherings, always eliciting compliments and requests for the recipe.

I often think back to that day in my mother's kitchen, when I stumbled upon this recipe by chance. It was a turning point in my culinary journey, opening my eyes to the endless possibilities of combining simple ingredients to create delicious and satisfying dishes.

As I sit here now, with a steaming plate of Macaroni, Cheese and Tomatoes in front of me, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons I have learned from my grandmother and the joy that cooking has brought into my life. And as I take my first bite, savoring the creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and tender macaroni, I am reminded once again of the power of a good recipe to bring people together and create lasting memories.