Our Tomato and Cheese Macaroni is a simple yet comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a satisfying main course. With its creamy tomato sauce and cheesy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it at family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners for a delightful culinary experience.
INGREDIENTS:
- ¼ pound of macaroni (broken into two-inch lengths)
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese for topping (about a half-inch layer)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the delicious macaroni dish.
- Cook the Macaroni: Begin by boiling the quarter-pound of macaroni in a pot of salted water. Allow it to cook for approximately twenty-five minutes or until the macaroni is tender but not overly soft. Once cooked, drain the macaroni thoroughly.
- Butter the Baking Dish: Take a baking dish and generously butter the bottom and sides. This step ensures that the macaroni won’t stick to the dish while baking.
- Layer the Macaroni: Place the drained macaroni into the buttered baking dish, creating an even layer at the bottom.
- Add the Tomato Sauce: Pour one cup of tomato sauce evenly over the cooked macaroni. The tomato sauce adds a deliciously tangy and savory element to the dish.
- Season to Perfection: Season the macaroni and tomato sauce mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, keeping in mind that the cheese topping will also contribute some saltiness.
- Top with Grated Cheese: The crowning glory of this dish is the layer of grated cheese on top. Generously sprinkle the grated cheese to create a half-inch layer, covering the macaroni and tomato sauce entirely. The cheese will melt and become beautifully golden and bubbly during baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the prepared baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately fifteen minutes or until the cheese on top turns a golden brown and starts to bubble. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overbaking, as the macaroni is already fully cooked.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the cheese has achieved that irresistible golden crust, remove the baking dish from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns. Scoop out generous portions, making sure each serving includes some of that cheesy, tomatoey goodness.
TIPS AND VARIATIONS:
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can all work wonderfully. Each variety brings its unique flavor and texture to the dish.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor profile with herbs like basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Freshly chopped parsley or basil can also be sprinkled on top after baking for a burst of freshness.
- Protein Boost: To make this dish heartier, consider adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or diced chicken to the tomato sauce before layering it with the macaroni. This addition will transform it into a full meal.
- Make It Your Own: Customize the dish with your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions, to add extra layers of flavor and texture.
Enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors in every mouthful!
