Baked Tomato Mac Cheese: 6 Comforting Layers of Flavor

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Baked Tomato Mac Cheese is the epitome of comfort food, especially during the summer months when fresh tomatoes are at their peak. This delightful dish combines creamy, cheesy macaroni with juicy layers of sliced tomatoes, creating a flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing. The homemade cheese sauce, infused with mustard powder and smoked paprika, adds depth to the dish, making it an irresistible option for family dinners or gatherings. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering meal!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Tomato Mac Cheese

This Baked Tomato Mac Cheese is not just another macaroni dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Fresh, juicy tomatoes that add a burst of flavor.
The perfect balance between comfort food and a light meal.
Vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for various diets.
Easy to prepare as a one-pot meal.
Customizable with herbs or different cheeses for added flavor.

This dish falls under the category of American cuisine and is ideal for anyone looking for a comforting yet refreshing dinner option.

Ingredients for Baked Tomato Mac Cheese

Gather these items:

15 oz dried macaroni
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup double (heavy) cream
4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of cheddar and gruyere, Jarlsberg or similar)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp mustard powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
3-4 large tomatoes (or a combination of larger and smaller tomatoes, sliced thinly)
Olive oil (for drizzling)
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Baked Tomato Mac Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C or 200°C Fan) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish to prepare for baking.
Step 2: In a large, deep sauté pan, melt the unsalted butter over low-medium heat. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and whisk constantly until a paste (roux) forms and starts to smell toasted after about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the mustard powder, smoked paprika, and salt to the roux. Whisk thoroughly to combine the spices evenly into the base.
Step 4: Turn the heat to medium and slowly whisk in the double cream followed by the whole milk, starting with small splashes to maintain temperature and avoid lumps. Gradually increase the volume of liquid added as the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Continue whisking the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens and starts bubbling at the edges. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth. Set aside while you cook the pasta.
Step 6: Boil the dried macaroni according to package instructions, but drain it a couple of minutes before it is fully cooked to maintain a firm texture.
Step 7: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat all the pasta evenly.
Step 8: Pour half of the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of sliced tomatoes over it, leaving some gaps so the tomatoes aren’t overcrowded.
Step 9: Spread the remaining mac and cheese over the tomatoes. Add another layer of tomato slices on top, this time covering the surface almost completely with minimal gaps. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 10: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the tomatoes are roasted and edges begin to brown. Optionally, use the broiler/grill setting briefly to finish, but avoid baking longer than 20 minutes to prevent drying out the mac and cheese.
Step 11: Remove from oven, let the casserole sit for a few moments until bubbling subsides, then serve immediately for the best creamy, fresh flavor balance.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Tomato Mac Cheese

Keep these in mind:

Use a mix of cheeses for more flavor.
Let the dish rest before serving for better texture.
Feel free to add herbs for extra flavor.
Experiment with different types of tomatoes for varied taste.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Tomato Mac Cheese

This Baked Mac and Cheese with Tomatoes can be served as a main dish or as a side. Pair it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. It also makes for a fantastic potluck dish!

How to Store and Reheat Baked Tomato Mac Cheese

To store this delicious dish, cover it tightly in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to retain the creamy texture, ensuring it’s warmed through without drying out. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Tomato Mac Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Tomato Mac Cheese?

The secret lies in using fresh tomatoes and allowing the cheese sauce to thicken properly. This creates a creamy base that perfectly complements the tomatoes.

Can I make Baked Tomato Mac Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving for a fresh taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Tomato Mac Cheese?

Ensure you don’t overcook the pasta and let the dish rest after baking. This will prevent it from becoming mushy and allows flavors to meld.

Variations of Baked Tomato Mac Cheese You Can Try

For a twist on this classic, consider adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can also try different cheese combinations or even add a layer of breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. This dish is versatile and can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences!

For more delicious recipes, check out our One Pot Broccoli Cheese or Garlic Parmesan Sweet Potato. If you’re interested in more vegetarian options, consider trying Creamy Vegetable Soup for a delightful meal!

Additionally, you can learn more about the health benefits of tomatoes from Healthline.