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Creamy Tomato Mac and Cheese 🧀🍅

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Introduction

Creamy Tomato Mac and Cheese is a comforting twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Tender elbow macaroni is coated in a rich, cheesy tomato sauce, creating a creamy, savory, slightly tangy dish that’s perfect for an easy family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes, optional
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Additions

  • Cooked crispy bacon
  • Italian sausage
  • Ground beef
  • Red pepper flakes for heat
  • Fresh basil
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping

Tips for Success

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy.
  • Shred your cheese yourself for a smoother sauce.
  • Add the cheese over low heat to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy.
  • Reserve a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
  • For an extra golden top, sprinkle with Parmesan and broil for 2–3 minutes.

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute.
  3. Add dairy: Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
  4. Add tomato: Stir in tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until completely melted and creamy.
  6. Combine: Add the cooked macaroni and diced tomatoes, if using. Stir until every piece is coated.
  7. Bake if desired: Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Description

Every bite combines tender macaroni with a velvety cheese sauce enriched with tomato, giving this classic comfort food a beautiful orange color and irresistible creamy texture.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving, depending on ingredients and portion size:

  • Calories: 500–600
  • Protein: 20–25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50–60 g
  • Fat: 25–30 g
  • Calcium: 400–500 mg

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Mac and Cheese is an easy, satisfying meal that brings together the familiar comfort of cheesy pasta with the bright flavor of tomato.

Recommendation

Serve it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, ground beef, or Italian sausage.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk, slightly less cheese, and whole-wheat pasta. Adding spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes can also boost the vegetable content while keeping the dish delicious.

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