What Is Macaroni and Tomatoes?
Macaroni and tomatoes is a basic dish from the South. It comes from hard times like the Great Depression. People made it with cheap items from the pantry. Today, many enjoy it as comfort food. This recipe uses pasta and canned tomatoes. It takes little time to make. You can serve it as a side or main meal.
Why Make This Recipe?
This dish is fast and cheap. It needs few items. You can change it to fit your taste. It works for busy nights or family meals. Kids and adults like it. The flavors mix well. Tomatoes add tang. Pasta soaks up the juice.
Ingredients
You need these items:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon bacon grease or butter
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to reduce tartness)
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
These make 4 servings.
How to Make Macaroni and Tomatoes Step by Step
Follow these steps.
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add macaroni. Cook until just firm, about 8 minutes. Check the box for time. Drain the pasta. Set it aside.
- Use the same pot or a skillet on medium heat. Add bacon grease or butter. Let it melt.
- If using, add chopped onion. Cook for 3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with juice. Stir in salt, pepper, and sugar if you want.
- Bring to a low boil. Then simmer for 5 minutes. Stir now and then.
- Add drained macaroni to the tomato mix. Stir well. Cook for 2-3 minutes more. Let pasta take in the sauce.
- Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot.
This takes about 20 minutes total.
Tips for Best Results
- Use canned tomatoes with juice. It makes the sauce.
- Drain pasta but do not rinse. Starch helps sauce stick.
- Start with less sugar. Add more if tomatoes taste too sharp.
- Cook pasta a bit less than done. It will finish in the sauce.
- Save bacon grease from breakfast. It adds a smoky taste.
- If sauce is thin, simmer longer to thicken.
Variations to Try
Change it up with these ideas.
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage for a full meal.
- Mix in shredded cheese at the end. Cheddar works well.
- Use stewed tomatoes for more veggies like celery.
- Add herbs like basil or oregano. Use 1 teaspoon dried.
- For spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Try fresh tomatoes in summer. Chop 4-5 and cook down.
These keep the dish fresh each time.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in a sealed container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, put in a pan on low heat. Add a splash of water if dry. Stir until warm. Do not freeze. Pasta gets mushy.
What to Serve with Macaroni and Tomatoes
Pair it with these for a full meal.
- Fried chicken or pork chops.
- Green beans or corn on the cob.
- A slice of cornbread.
- A simple salad with fresh greens.
It fits many main dishes.
Common Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes. Chop them and cook longer to make sauce.
Is this the same as goulash? No. Goulash has meat and more spices.
Can I make it without fat? Use a bit of oil instead.
How do I make it for more people? Double all items.
Does it work as a main dish? Yes, with added protein.
Final Thoughts
Macaroni and tomatoes brings back old memories for many. It shows how simple food can taste great. Try this recipe next time you need a quick side. Play with additions to make it your own. It stays useful through any changes in search rules.