Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this Baked Tomato Macaroni recipe is sure to hit the spot. Filled with the flavors of ripe tomatoes, gooey cheese, and aromatic herbs, this dish is a delightful twist on the classic mac and cheese. Perfect for both kids and adults alike, it’s a simple yet flavorful meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
**Baked Tomato Macaroni**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the tomato sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Transfer half of the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the pasta.
7. Add the remaining macaroni mixture on top and finish with the rest of the cheeses.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Once out of the oven, let the Baked Tomato Macaroni rest for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
This Baked Tomato Macaroni is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying meal or served as a side alongside your favorite protein. The combination of tangy tomatoes, melty cheese, and fragrant herbs creates a delicious symphony of flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for more. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding cooked ground beef, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture and depth. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty baked pasta dish with your loved ones – it’s a surefire way to bring smiles to the dinner table.
