Macaroni and Tomatoes

Indulge in the comforting simplicity of "Macaroni and Tomatoes," an easy one-pot dish that delivers nostalgic Southern flavors in just 25 minutes. This classic recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, tangy blend of canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and a touch of butter for a velvety finish. A dash of sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder balance the acidity, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness as an optional garnish. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty side dish, this budget-friendly meal is a delicious nod to wholesome, timeless cooking. Whether served on its own or paired with your favorite protein, "Macaroni and Tomatoes" is a quick, family-friendly dish that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.

Step 2

Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a medium saucepan, combine the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and water. Stir to mix.

Step 4

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

Add the unsalted butter, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the saucepan. Stir until the butter is melted and the seasonings are well incorporated.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and let the tomato mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan with the tomato mixture. Stir gently to coat the macaroni evenly in the sauce.

Step 8

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the macaroni is fully warmed through and has absorbed some of the sauce.

Step 9

Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 10

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1143 grams (1143.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1367

Total Fat 44.20g	57%
Saturated Fat 17.40g	87%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.50g
Cholesterol 70mg	23%
Sodium 2008mg	87%
Total Carbohydrate 200.30g	73%
Dietary Fiber 17.60g	63%
Total Sugars 28.80g
Protein 38.10g	76%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 166mg	13%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 824mg	18%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.4%

Protein: 11.3%

Carbs: 59.3%