Here’s a simple, comforting Macaroni and Tomato recipe — a classic, saucy pasta dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
🍅 Macaroni and Tomato
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni or any small pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz / 425g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook Pasta
- Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make Tomato Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté onion until soft (3–4 minutes), then add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Season with basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3️⃣ Combine
- Add cooked pasta to the tomato sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Optional: sprinkle with grated cheese and stir until melted.
4️⃣ Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.
- Pairs well with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
🔥 Tips & Variations
- Creamy twist: Stir in ¼ cup cream or milk for a richer, creamy tomato sauce.
- Veggie boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make-ahead: Pasta can be cooked ahead and reheated in the sauce with a splash of water.
If you want, I can provide a baked macaroni and tomato casserole version with cheese on top, similar to a simple comfort-food bake.
Do you want me to do that?
