Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Stewed Tomatoes

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Stewed Tomatoes: A Nostalgic Comfort Food

This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a time machine. One bite transports me back to my high school cafeteria, the aroma of warm cheese and simmering tomatoes filling the air. Friday was always macaroni and cheese day – a comforting ritual that ended the school week on a delicious note. I know what you’re thinking: macaroni and cheese with stewed tomatoes? It might sound unusual, even a bit off-putting. But trust me, the combination is pure magic. The sweetness of the stewed tomatoes cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a surprisingly harmonious blend of flavors and textures. This is far from your average mac and cheese; it's a dish brimming with nostalgia and unexpected deliciousness.

The memory of that Friday cafeteria mac and cheese has stayed with me for almost twenty years. It’s become a cherished part of my culinary past, a taste that evokes warm feelings of teenage friendships, Friday night football games, and the simple joy of a satisfying school lunch. Every time I make baked macaroni and cheese, that craving for stewed tomatoes returns. It’s a craving I’ve finally learned to satisfy, transforming the memory into a comforting recipe that I can share with my own family and friends. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. It’s the kind of dish you can easily whip up on a busy weeknight, but it still feels special, elevated by the unexpected addition of stewed tomatoes.

The ingredients are simple, everyday pantry staples. You likely already have most of them on hand. This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – a blend of cheddar and Gruyere, perhaps, or even some sharp Monterey Jack. The type of macaroni you use is also a matter of personal preference; shells, elbows, or even rotini would work wonderfully. And don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of stewed tomatoes to your liking. Some prefer a more pronounced tomato flavor, while others might want a subtler touch. This recipe is your canvas – feel free to personalize it and make it your own!

Beyond the Recipe: This isn’t just about the food; it's about the memories and the connections we forge around shared meals. The simple act of preparing and eating food can be so powerful, weaving together strands of our lives and creating lasting bonds. This macaroni and cheese recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a gateway to the past, a reminder of simpler times, and a chance to create new memories around the table. It's a testament to how even the most seemingly ordinary ingredients can become extraordinary when infused with love, nostalgia, and a touch of culinary creativity. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be transported back in time – one delicious bite at a time.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this mac and cheese as a hearty main course, accompanied by a side salad or some crusty bread. It's also a wonderful option for potlucks and gatherings, sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And don't forget the extra sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra touch of cheesy goodness! Remember, cooking is a journey of discovery, so experiment, enjoy, and embrace the magic of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special.

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
• Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain, rinse and set aside.
• In a large saucepan, over medium heat, heat the 3 cups of milk, butter, salt and pepper until hot but not boiling.
• In a small bowl or cup, combine 1/4 cup of milk with the cornstarch and stir until dissolved.
• Slowly add this to the hot milk mixture, stirring constantly with a whisk.
• When mixture has thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of the cheese until melted.
• Pour pasta into a large mixing bowl and add the cheese mixture and the stewed tomatoes.
• Mix well until macaroni is well coated.
• Pour into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish or 3 quart casserole and top with remaining cheese.
• Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until golden brown.