A nostalgic and comforting dish, Old Fashioned Macaroni and Tomatoes combines tender elbow macaroni with sweet and savory stewed tomatoes, a touch of sugar, and melted butter. Simple yet satisfying, it’s a cozy Southern classic.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Southern
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
28 ounces canned whole tomatoes with juice
3 tablespoons sugar
½ teaspoon salt
2 to 3 tablespoons butter
Salted water for boiling macaroni
Optional: black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the macaroni in boiling salted water according to the package directions until tender, then drain well.
In a large skillet, pour in the canned whole tomatoes with their juices.
Break up the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces using a spoon or your hands.
Add the cooked macaroni, sugar, and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Once the mixture begins to bubble, reduce the heat and stir in the butter until melted and well blended.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if desired.
Serve warm, optionally with buttered bread on the side.
Notes
Use high-quality canned tomatoes for better flavor.
Adjust sugar to taste if tomatoes are already sweet.
Great served with cornbread or buttered toast.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated gently.