Easy Baked Tomato Macaroni
Introduction
This is a quick, budget-friendly pasta dish made with tender macaroni and juicy tomatoes baked together with cheese and seasoning. It’s simple comfort food that can be made in under an hour and works great as a side dish or a light dinner.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
1/2 cup milk or cream (optional for creaminess)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until just tender.
- Drain the pasta and place it in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Pour the canned diced tomatoes with their juice over the pasta.
- Add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
- Mix everything together gently so the pasta is coated with the tomatoes and seasoning.
- Pour in milk or cream if you want a creamier texture.
- Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Baking
- Place the dish in the oven.
- Bake for about 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (approximate per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fat: 12 g
Benefits
Provides energy from pasta carbohydrates
Tomatoes add vitamins A and C
Cheese adds calcium and protein
Simple ingredients and very affordable
Tips
You can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken for a heartier meal.
Adding chopped onions and bell peppers will boost flavor.
Parmesan cheese on top gives a richer taste.
Conclusion
This baked tomato macaroni is an easy comfort recipe perfect for busy days. With just a few pantry ingredients, you get a warm, cheesy pasta dish that the whole family will enjoy.