This recipe combines the gooey goodness of three cheeses - cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan - with the freshness of ripe tomatoes to create a comforting and satisfying macaroni dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Directions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until mixture is thickened.
- Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to cheese sauce.
- Fold in diced tomatoes and cooked macaroni until well combined.
- Pour mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle with extra cheese, if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Tomatoes add a burst of freshness and acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese sauce.
This dish can easily be customized with added ingredients such as bacon, jalapenos, or even spinach for a twist.