If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug straight from the past, you’re going to love this Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a nostalgic, soul-satisfying comfort food that’s incredible in its simplicity—plump elbow macaroni swimming in a gently sweet, tangy tomato sauce, enriched by the creamy finish of butter. This recipe brings together everyday pantry staples in such a cozy way that it quickly becomes a family favorite, perfect for casual weeknights or when you want a no-fuss meal that still tastes like you put in a little love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe is just how few ingredients it calls for, yet each one plays a starring role in flavor, texture, and color. These basics are the heart of the dish, delivering that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy that keeps you coming back for more.
- Elbow macaroni: Choose 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni; its shape is perfect for capturing the tomato sauce in every bite.
- Canned whole tomatoes with juice: 28 ounces bring rich, fresh tomato flavor and a little natural sweetness to the dish.
- Sugar: 3 tablespoons balance the acidity of tomatoes, creating that classic sweet-tart harmony.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance all the flavors and make them pop just right.
- Butter: 2 to 3 tablespoons melt into the hot macaroni and tomatoes for a silky, indulgent finish.
How to Make Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 2 cups of elbow macaroni according to the package directions. This is usually about 7 to 8 minutes until tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the macaroni thoroughly to avoid watering down the sauce and set it aside while you prepare the tomato mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the tomatoes
In a large skillet, pour in the entire 28-ounce can of whole tomatoes along with their juice. Using a spoon or your hands, break the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks. This rustic approach gives you a chunky, hearty tomato sauce that’s rich and full of fresh flavor.
Step 3: Combine macaroni and tomatoes
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the broken-up tomatoes. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of sugar and ½ teaspoon of salt, then stir everything gently but thoroughly to combine. The sugar helps balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes, making the sauce pleasantly mellow and slightly sweet.
Step 4: Simmer and develop flavors
Set your skillet over medium heat and bring the macaroni and tomato mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir the sauce occasionally, letting it slowly thicken and the flavors marry together beautifully. This simmering step is key to coaxing out all the richness from the tomatoes.
Step 5: Add butter and finish
Once the sauce starts bubbling, lower the heat and stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter until it melts completely. The butter adds a luscious creaminess and rounds out the flavors perfectly. At this point, taste the dish and adjust seasoning with extra salt or freshly ground black pepper if you like.
Step 6: Serve warm and enjoy
Your Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish is best served warm to highlight its comforting, homey qualities.
How to Serve Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish shines on its own, simple garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of grated Parmesan can add a fresh or savory touch. Consider adding a little cracked black pepper on top for some subtle heat and aroma that wakes up the senses.
Side Dishes
Pair this macaroni and tomatoes with a crisp green salad or sautéed greens to add balance and freshness. A thick slice of buttered bread or warm cornbread also makes an ideal companion to scoop up every bit of that tasty tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the macaroni in individual ramekins topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar before broiling for a minute or two to create a melty, golden crust. You can also stir in some cooked bacon bits or diced onions to elevate the flavor complexity for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe, simply transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the comforting flavors again without any fuss.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, though it’s best to do so without the butter mixed in yet. Store the macaroni and tomato sauce separately in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding butter for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the pasta from drying out. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Stir in a little extra butter or olive oil to bring back that silky texture and freshness that makes this recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but canned whole tomatoes give a consistent sweet and tangy flavor year-round, which helps maintain the signature taste of this Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe. If using fresh, opt for very ripe tomatoes and consider cooking them down a bit longer.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan version for this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or olive oil. This swap keeps the dish cozy and delicious without compromising on flavor.
What type of macaroni works best?
Classic elbow macaroni is ideal because its curved shape holds the tomato sauce well. However, small pasta shapes like shells or miniature penne can be substituted if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?
Definitely! This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even a bit of cooked bacon or sausage can take the dish in new directions while honoring its comforting roots.
How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly?
Kids often love the sweet and mild flavors of this dish. To boost kid-friendliness, stir in a little shredded cheese for extra creaminess or serve with their favorite crunchy snacks on the side.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe truly brings together the magic of humble ingredients to create a meal full of warmth and nostalgia. It’s quick enough for any weeknight but comforting enough to remind you of home. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. Give it a try—the simple joy it brings might just make it your new go-to comfort food!
Print
Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Simple Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes recipe is a comforting, classic Southern dish that combines tender elbow macaroni with rich canned tomatoes, butter, and a touch of sugar. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Macaroni
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Tomato Sauce
- 28 ounces canned whole tomatoes with juice
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 to 3 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until tender but not mushy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the canned whole tomatoes along with their juice. Use a spoon or your hands to break the tomatoes into bite-sized chunks for a rustic texture.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni, sugar, and salt to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the skillet contents to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help flavors meld, cooking until the mixture starts bubbling, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add butter: Lower the heat and stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter until fully melted and incorporated, adding richness and a silky texture to the dish.
- Season and taste: Sample the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or black pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the macaroni and tomatoes warm. Optionally, accompany with a slice of buttered bread for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
- Breaking the canned tomatoes by hand adds a rustic texture that enhances the dish.
- You can adjust the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes based on taste.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when adding the butter.
- This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like green beans or a crisp salad.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat easily on the stovetop or microwave.
