Macaroni And Cheese With Tomatoes

Macaroni and Cheese with Tomatoes is a comforting twist on the classic mac ‘n’ cheese. This dish combines creamy, cheesy pasta with the bright, tangy flavor of stewed tomatoes. It’s perfect for when you want a little something extra in your traditional macaroni and cheese. The tomatoes add a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced and hearty meal. This recipe is great as a main dish or a side, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table with its homey and familiar flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Add the cheese: Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Add the tomatoes: Gently fold in the drained diced tomatoes, being careful not to break them up too much. Heat through for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
6. Serve: For a crispy topping, transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and broil for 3-4 minutes until golden. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Macaroni and Cheese with Tomatoes as a delicious and satisfying meal!