Easy Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe for Comfort Food

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is classic for this dish, but any small pasta works great! Consider cavatappi, shells, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.

Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes make this dish vibrant, but canned diced tomatoes save time. If you have crushed tomatoes, they can work too—just adjust the liquid if needed.

Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you don’t have one, shallots or green onions make good substitutes. For a milder flavor, use chives instead.

Cheese: Cheddar is wonderful, but you can mix it up with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor. Dairy-free cheese can work too!

How Do You Perfectly Cook Pasta for Macaroni?

Cooking pasta properly is key for avoiding mushy macaroni. Follow these steps:

• Use plenty of salted water—this enhances flavor and helps prevent sticking.
• Cook the macaroni until it’s “al dente,” meaning it should still be firm to the bite. This typically takes about 7-9 minutes for elbow macaroni.
• Once cooked, drain it immediately to stop the cooking process, then toss it with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together.

These tips will ensure your macaroni stays deliciously tender in your Easy Macaroni and Tomatoes dish!

Easy Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe for Comfort Food

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Dish:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
• 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or oregano (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese or your favorite melting cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take you about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for a comforting meal on a busy day!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s “al dente” (this usually takes about 7-9 minutes). Once cooked, drain the macaroni and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

3. Add the Tomatoes:

Next, add in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to your skillet. Sprinkle in the sugar (if you’re using it), along with dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want the tomatoes to soften and release their juicy goodness.

4. Combine Macaroni and Sauce:

After the tomatoes are cooked down, add the cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir everything together well, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes. This will help the pasta absorb the tasty tomato sauce!

5. Add Cheese and Serve:

Sprinkle the grated cheese over your macaroni and gently stir until it melts and blends in. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once it’s all combined, serve the hot macaroni topped with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Enjoy your comforting, easy macaroni and tomatoes! It’s sure to bring warmth to your day.

FAQ for Easy Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe

Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any small pasta shape you like, such as shells, penne, or even whole wheat options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary!

What Can I Substitute for Fresh Tomatoes?

If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes work perfectly. You can also use crushed tomatoes; just adjust the amount of liquid in the dish to keep it from becoming too soupy.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Can I Add Other Ingredients?

Definitely! This recipe is versatile. You can add cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition. You could also mix in cooked proteins like diced chicken or sausage if you want a heartier meal!