Mild Sweet Tomato Sauce with Elbow Macaroni Bake

Indulge in this delectable dish of mild sweet tomato sauce with elbow macaroni bake. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that will please the whole family. The creamy tomato sauce is lightly sweetened with a hint of spice, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Tossed with tender elbow macaroni and topped with a cheesy breadcrumb crust, this dish is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy. It's easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni and the tomato sauce. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. Spoon the tomato sauce with elbow macaroni bake onto plates and enjoy!

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