Imagine a dish that whispers nostalgic memories of grandma's kitchen, where simple ingredients transform into pure comfort on a plate. This Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes is more than just a recipe – it's a journey through culinary tradition that promises to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger with every delectable bite. Get ready to discover a timeless classic that proves sometimes the most incredible meals are born from the simplest ingredients!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, peel and finely chop the onion into uniform small pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it starts to foam and become slightly golden.
- Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Open the can of diced tomatoes and pour the entire contents into the skillet with the sautéed onions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander, shaking off excess water.
- Add the drained macaroni to the skillet with the tomatoes and onions, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Remove from heat and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use elbow macaroni for the most authentic experience, ensuring it's cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- Butter is Your Friend: Use real butter for sautéing onions to add depth of flavor and create a rich, golden base for your dish.
- Don't Rush the Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions – they should be soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Season Carefully: Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Let It Simmer: The 5-7 minute simmer at the end is crucial – it allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Optional Upgrades: For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving, or a touch of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Leftovers Tip: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make a little extra!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
