Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, tight grocery budgets, or anyone craving a cozy, retro-style meal. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly affordable, and adaptable to suit your tastes. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it as a meal on its own, the buttery tomato flavor and tender pasta offer a familiar, comforting experience. Plus, it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
28 ounces canned whole tomatoes with juice
3 tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon salt
2 to 3 tablespoons butter
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until tender. Drain well and set aside.
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In a large skillet, pour in the canned whole tomatoes with their juices. Use a spoon or your hands to break the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
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Add the cooked macaroni, sugar, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine everything evenly.
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Place the skillet over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Once the mixture starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter until it melts and blends into the sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or a bit of black pepper, if desired.
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Serve warm, optionally with buttered bread on the side for a complete, nostalgic meal.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Cheesy twist: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or Velveeta for a creamy, cheesy version.
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Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
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Herbed flavor: Sprinkle in dried basil or oregano to enhance the tomato flavor.
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With meat: Add cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier dish.
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Tomato alternatives: Use diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother texture.
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Vegetable addition: Toss in sautéed onions, bell peppers, or peas for more variety.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or tomato juice if needed to loosen the sauce.
Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
Canned whole tomatoes work best for this recipe because they break down nicely and offer a rich, slightly chunky texture.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. Blanch and peel them before chopping and cooking, though canned tomatoes offer convenience and consistent flavor.
Is it necessary to add sugar?
Sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances their natural sweetness. You can reduce or omit it based on your preference.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, any small pasta like shells or ditalini can work. Elbow macaroni is traditional, but feel free to substitute.
How do I keep the macaroni from getting mushy?
Make sure not to overcook the macaroni during boiling. Cook just until tender and avoid excessive simmering after combining with the tomatoes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and reheated, but it’s best served fresh as the pasta may absorb more liquid over time.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with buttered bread, cornbread, or a green vegetable like peas or green beans.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian. Just be sure to use butter or a vegetarian-friendly substitute.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended as the pasta may become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
How can I make it more filling?
Add protein like cooked beans, ground meat, or shredded cheese to turn it into a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes is a simple yet deeply satisfying recipe that stands the test of time. With its buttery, tangy tomato flavor and tender pasta, it offers a warm reminder of home and heritage. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish brings comfort to the table with every spoonful.
