Description
Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes is a comforting Southern classic made with tender elbow macaroni, buttery stewed tomatoes, and a touch of sugar and salt. This simple, nostalgic dish is perfect for quick meals and cozy nights.
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
28 ounces canned whole tomatoes with juice
3 tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon salt
2 to 3 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water according to package directions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, add the canned tomatoes with their juice and break them into bite-sized pieces using a spoon or hands.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet along with the sugar and salt. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat and stir in the butter until melted and well incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper, if desired.
- Serve warm, optionally with buttered bread on the side.
Notes
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy variation.
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken for added protein.
Use diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Cook pasta just until tender to avoid mushiness during simmering.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 312 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
