Creamy Tomato Macaroni and Cheese
Overview
Indulge in the delightful comfort of Creamy Tomato Macaroni and Cheese, a dish that beautifully melds the richness of cheese with the freshness of tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This recipe, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, promises to be a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly blending convenience with decadence. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this deliciously creamy pasta bake that they’ll crave again and again.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1008 |
| Total Fat | 56.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 34.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 168.6 mg |
| Sodium | 763.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 79.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 46.5 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 6 tablespoons | unsalted butter |
| 1 pound | corkscrew macaroni (or pasta of choice) |
| ½ cup | all-purpose flour |
| 5 cups | milk |
| 4 cloves | garlic, minced |
| 3 cups | cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 3 cups | Monterey Jack cheese, shredded |
| 2½ teaspoons | dried thyme |
| 2 fresh | tomatoes, diced |
| To taste | salt and pepper |
| Optional | breadcrumbs (for topping) |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a temperature of 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the oven is at the right heat to cook your macaroni and cheese to perfection.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: While the oven is heating, take a 9 x 13-inch ovenproof dish and generously butter it. This will help prevent sticking and enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corkscrew macaroni (or your chosen pasta) and cook it for about 8 minutes, or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and run it under cold water for approximately 1 minute to stop the cooking process. Be sure to drain it well, as excess water can dilute the sauce.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: In a wide pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and continue to cook for about 1 minute while whisking constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken your cheese sauce.
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Add Milk and Garlic: Gradually whisk in the milk and the minced garlic, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to cook this mixture over medium-low heat until it thickens, which should take around 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
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Season the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, season it with salt and pepper to taste. This is a crucial step, as it enhances the overall flavor profile of your macaroni and cheese.
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Incorporate the Cheeses and Tomatoes: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, dried thyme, and diced fresh tomatoes. Continue to stir until the cheeses have fully melted and the mixture is creamy and well combined.
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Combine with Pasta: Gently fold the reserved cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring that each piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for added texture and a golden finish.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for sharing and will surely be a hit at any gathering.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Macaroni and Cheese recipe from lovewithrecipes.com is not only a hearty meal but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your personal preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch. Enjoy the creamy goodness that this dish brings to your table!
