There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty dish of macaroni and cheese to evoke feelings of nostalgia and pure comfort. This **3-Ingredient Macaroni and Cheese with Tomatoes** recipe takes that beloved classic and simplifies it to its delicious core, using just three foundational ingredients: elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and canned diced tomatoes. It’s an incredibly easy and quick meal to prepare, often using staples you already have in your pantry, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting holiday side dish. Forget complicated sauces or endless steps – this recipe focuses on wholesome, real ingredients that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, proving that simple can truly be spectacular.

While this baked macaroni and cheese is especially cherished at holiday gatherings, like Thanksgiving, its appeal extends year-round. It serves beautifully as a stand-alone meal, a satisfying lunch, or as a delightful side dish to almost any main course. I particularly enjoy serving this hearty mac and cheese alongside Slow Cooker Pulled Pork for a truly satisfying spread that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. This recipe isn’t just food; it’s a warm embrace, a dish that brings families together and creates lasting memories around the dinner table. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined to create something truly magical.

🍒Reader Review

“Delicious, brings back memories” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why You’ll Love This Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe

• Only 3 Core Ingredients: It truly doesn’t get much simpler than this! With just elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and canned diced tomatoes, you can create a satisfying meal. These three staple ingredients are often already in your pantry, saving you a trip to the grocery store.
• Authentic, Real Food: What I appreciate most about this macaroni, tomatoes, and cheese recipe is its commitment to real, wholesome ingredients. These are the same basic components that have been used to make this dish for generations, offering a truly authentic, unprocessed taste that feels good to eat.
• Incredibly Quick and Easy: Life is busy, and sometimes you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This baked mac and cheese comes together quickly, typically in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknights when time is a precious commodity.
• Universally Family-Friendly: This classic comfort food is a guaranteed hit with everyone. Whether you’re feeding picky toddlers, growing kids, or adults seeking a taste of nostalgia, this recipe is perfect for all ages and dietary preferences (with easy modifications, of course!).
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable pantry staples, this macaroni and cheese recipe is kind to your wallet without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. It’s an economical way to feed a crowd or enjoy several meals.
• Customizable: While it’s delicious as is, this recipe is a fantastic base for customization. You can easily add various proteins, vegetables, or spices to tailor it to your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand.

🥘Ingredients Notes for the Best 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese

This recipe truly shines because of its simplicity and the quality of its core components. Here’s a closer look at the three star ingredients:

• Elbow Macaroni Noodles: The quintessential pasta for mac and cheese, elbow macaroni is perfectly designed for this dish. Its small, hollow, curved shape excels at capturing and holding onto the cheesy tomato sauce, ensuring a flavorful bite every time. I often opt for Smart Pasta because it cooks faster than traditional whole wheat varieties but still provides significantly more fiber (4x that of white pasta), offering a healthier twist without sacrificing convenience.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: For this recipe, canned diced tomatoes are an absolute game-changer. They offer unparalleled ease and economy, eliminating the need for fresh tomato preparation. More importantly, we use them undrained, as the liquid from the can becomes a crucial part of the sauce, infusing the dish with a rich, tangy tomato flavor that perfectly complements the cheese and pasta. This simple addition elevates the dish from ordinary mac and cheese to a vibrant, satisfying meal.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Choosing the right cheese is paramount for a creamy, flavorful macaroni and cheese. Sharp cheddar is the ideal choice for this recipe due to its excellent melting properties, which contribute to a smooth, luscious texture. The “sharpness” of the cheddar also provides a robust, prominent flavor that stands up beautifully against the tang of the tomatoes and the richness of the pasta, creating a harmonious and addictive profile. For a slightly lighter version, I often use low-fat sharp or old cheddar cheese, which still delivers on flavor.
• Optional Olive Oil: While not one of the *three core ingredients* that define the flavor profile, a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of olive, vegetable, or canola oil can be added to the pasta water. This helps prevent the macaroni noodles from sticking together while they cook, ensuring a perfect al dente texture. This step is entirely optional but recommended for best results.

📖 Variations & Substitutions for Your 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese

While the classic 3-ingredient recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully versatile! Feel free to get creative with these variations and substitutions to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Cheddar Cheese Alternatives: If sharp cheddar isn’t your preference, you can easily substitute it with mild or medium cheddar for a milder flavor. For a richer, gooier texture, consider using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a touch of cream cheese for extra creaminess. For those with lactose sensitivities, lactose-free cheddar cheese works perfectly; I’ve used it many times for my daughter with great success. You can shred it yourself from a block or opt for convenient pre-shredded lactose-free varieties.
• Pasta Choices: While elbow macaroni is traditional, other tubular pasta shapes like rotini, ditalini, or even small shells would work beautifully. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat macaroni is a good substitute, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time. As mentioned, Smart Pasta is another excellent choice, offering increased fiber and faster cooking. I regularly use Smart Pasta in other dishes like my Leftover Ham and Macaroni Soup and many other pasta dishes.
• Tomato Options: Instead of canned diced tomatoes, you can use canned whole tomatoes and simply cut them up yourself before adding them to the pasta. Stewed tomatoes offer a slightly different texture and flavor profile, which can also be a delicious alternative. For a fresh take, use an equivalent amount of chopped fresh tomatoes, especially ripe summer varieties, for a burst of seasonal flavor. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a subtle smoky depth.
• Flavor Boosters: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the savory notes without adding complexity. A tiny dash of smoked paprika could also add a pleasant depth. For a touch of acidity balance, a small pinch of sugar can mellow the tomatoes without making the dish sweet.
• Add-Ins for a Heartier Meal:
  • Proteins: Transform this side dish into a complete meal by stirring in cooked ground beef, crumbled sausage, crispy bacon bits, shredded chicken (leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect!), or even a can of drained tuna.
  • Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content and flavor with cooked vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach (it will wilt down beautifully), frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or finely chopped broccoli florets are all excellent additions. Add them in with the tomatoes or during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley, chopped just before serving, can add a wonderful fresh aroma and flavor. Dried Italian seasoning can be stirred in with the tomatoes for a more herbaceous undertone.

Top Tip for Healthier Pasta!

When choosing your pasta, consider using **Smart Pasta**. This innovative pasta tends to cook faster than traditional whole wheat varieties, which is a fantastic time-saver. More importantly, it offers a significant nutritional advantage, providing up to 4 times as much fiber compared to regular white pasta. While it may not be quite as robustly healthy as 100% whole wheat pasta, you are still gaining those valuable additional fiber benefits. It’s a great middle-ground option for those looking to boost their fiber intake without fully committing to whole wheat’s texture or slightly longer cooking time. You can read more about smart pasta here.

🔪How to Make 3-Ingredient Macaroni, Cheese with Tomatoes (Step-by-Step)

Creating this comforting baked mac and cheese with tomatoes is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result:

1. Step 1: Cook the Macaroni. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni noodles and cook them to an al dente consistency, following the package instructions carefully. “Al dente” means the pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy (see NOTES in the recipe card for more detail). I highly recommend adding a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of olive oil to the boiling water; this optional step helps prevent the macaroni from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the macaroni thoroughly through a colander.

2. Step 2: Combine with Tomatoes. Once the macaroni is drained, return it to the same pot, or transfer it to a casserole dish or baking dish. Immediately add the entire can of diced tomatoes, *including all the liquid*. The tomato liquid is essential as it forms the flavorful base for our sauce.

3. Step 3: Mix Thoroughly. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix the diced tomatoes into the macaroni until they are evenly distributed. Ensure that the pasta is well coated with the tomato liquid.

4. Step 4: Top with Cheese and Broil. Preheat your oven to broil (set to 500 degrees F / 260 degrees C). Evenly sprinkle a generous layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the macaroni and tomato mixture. Place the baking dish on the middle rack under the broiler.
   Baking Time: Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully bubbly, melted, and lightly browned to your desired preference. **Crucial Tip:** Keep a very close eye on it at all times to prevent burning, as broilers can quickly toast or char food. I always place an old cookie sheet on the rack beneath the casserole dish to catch any potential spills or drips. Also, be aware that low-fat cheese tends to brown and burn faster under the broiler, so monitor it even more carefully. Once golden and delicious, remove from the oven. I love to sprinkle a little salt on top just before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

HINT: To reiterate, placing a cookie sheet underneath your baking dish is a simple yet effective way to prevent any spills or bubbling cheese from dripping down and creating a mess in your oven. And remember, the broiler works quickly, so maintain constant vigilance, especially if you’re using low-fat cheese, which has a higher tendency to burn.

Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese with Tomatoes

• Freshly Shred Your Cheese: This is a game-changer! Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents (like cellulose) that can make it melt unevenly and result in a grainy texture. Grating your own block of sharp cheddar ensures a smooth, creamy, and perfectly gooey cheese layer that truly elevates the dish.
• Choose the Right Tomatoes: While regular canned diced tomatoes work wonderfully, experimenting with fire-roasted or San Marzano canned tomatoes can add a richer, deeper, and more savory tomato profile to your mac and cheese. Their concentrated flavors bring an extra layer of gourmet taste.
• Cook Your Pasta Just Shy of Al Dente: The pasta will continue to cook slightly when it’s combined with the hot tomatoes and under the broiler. Cooking it just a minute or two less than the package directions for “al dente” will ensure it remains perfectly tender with a slight chew, rather than becoming mushy or overcooked in the final dish.
• Layer for Maximum Flavor Distribution: Instead of simply pouring the cheese on top, consider layering. Alternate a portion of the macaroni and tomato mixture with a sprinkle of cheese, then repeat. This ensures that every single bite has a rich flavor and a delightful string of gooey cheese, rather than just a cheesy crust on top.
• Master the Broiler for a Bubbly Crust: Broiling at 500 °F (260 °C) for just 3-5 minutes is the secret to achieving that coveted golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy cheese crust. Place the dish on the middle rack, and watch it like a hawk. The moment you see golden spots and bubbling, remove it to prevent burning.
• Assemble Ahead for Convenience: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the noodles and mix them with the diced tomatoes up to two days in advance. Store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just before you’re ready to bake, add the fresh shredded cheese and broil as directed. This cuts down on last-minute preparation time.
• Freeze and Reheat Properly: For long-term storage, follow the recipe’s freezing directions. When reheating, especially from frozen, always do so with moist heat (covered with foil in the oven at a moderate temperature like 350 °F / 175 °C). This technique prevents the macaroni and cheese from drying out, preserving its comforting texture.
• Garnish Before Serving: A fresh garnish not only adds visual appeal but also a burst of complementary flavor. A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil, parsley, scallions, or chives right before serving can brighten the rich dish and add a wonderful aromatic finish.
• Balance with Fresh Sides: To cut through the richness of the mac and cheese, serve it alongside crisp, fresh vegetables, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette, or even tangy pickles. These lighter elements provide a welcome contrast and round out the meal beautifully.

🌡️Storage & Reheating Mac and Cheese with Tomatoes

This mac and cheese with tomatoes is so delicious, you might not have leftovers! But if you do, here’s how to store and reheat it properly to maintain its comforting quality:

Storing Leftovers in the Fridge:

Store any leftover macaroni and cheese with tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For shorter storage, like overnight, simply covering it tightly with plastic wrap will suffice. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe freezes surprisingly well, mainly because it doesn’t contain milk or a traditional béchamel sauce, which can sometimes separate upon freezing. You can freeze it in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, consider freezing individual portions for easy reheating later.

To Reheat Your Mac and Cheese:

There are a couple of great ways to bring your baked mac and cheese back to life:

Microwave Method (Quickest): Defrost the mac and cheese in the fridge overnight if frozen. Then, simply microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate or bowl until thoroughly warm, stirring halfway through. You may add a tiny splash of water or milk if it seems too dry.

Oven Method (For Casserole-Style Reheating): For a more even and less dried-out reheat, treating it like a casserole in the oven is ideal. I highly recommend using this casserole reheating technique, which works wonders for any pasta casserole and prevents it from drying out:

1. If frozen, transfer the dish from the freezer to the fridge the night before to allow it to defrost completely. Ideally, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before placing it in the oven to ensure even heating.
2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
3. Remove any plastic wrap or original lid from your casserole dish. Then, tightly seal the dish with aluminum foil (shiny side facing inwards). This traps moisture and helps the dish heat through without drying out.
4. Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s warmed through to your satisfaction. You can remove the foil for the final 2-5 minutes and even switch to broiler mode briefly if you desire a crispy top again. Alternatively, if your cheese layer reaches the top of the dish, you can “tent” the foil (create a dome) to prevent it from sticking to the cheese.
5. For absolute certainty, use an instant-read thermometer (affiliate link) to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (75 degrees C).

🥗 What to Serve with Macaroni and Cheese with Tomatoes

This 3-ingredient mac and cheese with tomatoes is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but it also shines when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Fresh and Green Options:

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a perfect counterpoint to the richness of mac and cheese. Consider my Strawberry Pecan Spinach Salad for a delightful sweet and savory balance (as shown in the image below).
• Chopped Fresh Vegetables: A platter of raw, crunchy vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes offers a refreshing textural contrast and a boost of nutrients.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Complement the flavors with tender vegetable dishes. My Easy Green Beans and Mushrooms make for a wonderful, earthy pairing, especially suitable for holiday meals. Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are also excellent choices.

Protein Pairings:

• Fried Chicken: For a classic comfort food pairing, serve this mac and cheese with crispy Fried Chicken (without buttermilk). The savory crunch of the chicken beautifully complements the creamy pasta.
• Pulled Pork: As mentioned earlier, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a phenomenal match. The tender, smoky pork is a fantastic partner to the tangy, cheesy macaroni.
• Baked Ham: This mac and cheese is an ideal side dish for holiday meals, pairing wonderfully with a succulent Picnic Ham.

❔Recipe FAQ’s for 3-Ingredient Mac and Cheese

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