There’s something incredibly heartwarming about seeing your children take their first steps in cooking, especially when they attempt a family favorite like baked macaroni. One day, to my surprise and delight, my daughters decided to make their own version of baked macaroni.
They did a fantastic job, and it inspired me to tweak their recipe a bit to enhance the flavors they had put together. This version of baked macaroni combines the simple goodness of pasta and tomato sauce with a cheesy, gratin topping, turning an everyday meal into a special dish.
This recipe starts with cooking the macaroni in a skillet, which allows the pasta to absorb all the flavors as it cooks directly in the sauce, creating a deeper, richer taste. Once the pasta is coated in a homemade tomato sauce—seasoned with just the right amount of Italian herbs—it’s sprinkled generously with mozzarella and Parmigiano Reggiano.
All that ooey gooey goodness...
The final step is a quick broil in the oven to melt the cheese into a bubbly, golden crust that’s hard to resist. Garnished with freshly chopped parsley, it adds just the right touch of freshness to each savory bite.
I’d love for you to try making this baked macaroni at home. It’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating those little moments of joy in the kitchen, much like my daughters did. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, friends, or family, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around.
Happiness in a spoonful...
It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make a meal that’s as nourishing to the soul as it is to the stomach. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Ingredients:
(Serve 4)
Macaroni, 200g
Hot Water, 800g
Sea Salt, Pinch
Tomato Sauce Homemade, 1 Recipe
Italian Seasonings, 1 TBSP
Mozzarella, For Grating
Parmigiano Reggiano, For Grating
Parsley Finely Chopped, For Garnishing
Equipment:
Cast Iron Skillet / Pan
Oven
Directions:
Please visit my "How To Make Tomato Sauce" page for the recipe.
Add macaroni and hot water to a skillet over medium heat.
Season with salt and stir to combine well.
Lightly season with salt and stir to combine well.
Cook until the macaroni is just under al dente and until the pasta water has almost evaporated.
Add in the tomato sauce and Italian seasonings.
Toss until the macaroni is well coated.
Remove from heat, grate in some mozzarella and parmigiano.
Wack into the oven and broil until the cheese has melted.
Immediately garnish with some parsley.
Serve immediately.
Simple yet yummilicious...
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