Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

This Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese recipe has become a staple in our household, and for good reason. The first time I made it, the aroma of roasting tomatoes filled the kitchen, a sweet and savory promise of what was to come. When it finally emerged from the oven, bubbling and golden brown, it was met with eager faces. My family, usually divided in their mac and cheese preferences, unanimously declared this version a winner. The roasted tomatoes add a depth and sweetness that elevates classic mac and cheese to something truly special. It’s the perfect comfort food with a sophisticated twist, easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for company. This recipe isn’t just about creamy cheese and pasta; it’s about layers of flavor, starting with the vibrant, caramelized sweetness of roasted tomatoes and culminating in a rich, cheesy indulgence that will leave you craving more. Get ready to transform your mac and cheese game forever.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese, you will need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• 2 pounds ripe Roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes, also known as plum tomatoes, are ideal for roasting due to their meaty texture and lower water content. This prevents them from becoming too watery during roasting and intensifies their flavor. Look for tomatoes that are firm, brightly colored, and have a slight give when gently squeezed.
• 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled: Roasting garlic cloves along with the tomatoes mellows their pungent flavor and imparts a sweet, nutty note. Keeping them unpeeled allows them to steam inside their skins, becoming soft and easily squeezable.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for roasting. It helps to caramelize the tomatoes, enhances their flavor, and prevents them from drying out. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor, but regular olive oil will also work well.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano brings a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic Mediterranean flavor that complements tomatoes beautifully. Dried oregano is convenient and readily available, but fresh oregano can also be used (about 1 tablespoon chopped).
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme adds a subtle earthy and lemony note that pairs wonderfully with both tomatoes and cheese. Similar to oregano, dried thyme is convenient, but fresh thyme (about 1 tablespoon chopped) can be substituted.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat, red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the cheese. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of all the ingredients. Use kosher salt for its clean taste and freshly ground black pepper for its aromatic bite.

For the Macaroni and Cheese:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for mac and cheese due to its curved shape, which holds the cheese sauce beautifully. However, you can also use other short pasta shapes like cavatappi, shells, or penne. Choose a high-quality pasta for the best texture.
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter: Butter is the foundation of the roux and adds richness and flavor to the cheese sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the dish.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Flour is used to create a roux, which is the thickening agent for the cheese sauce. All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe.
• 4 cups whole milk: Whole milk provides the richness and creaminess needed for a luscious cheese sauce. You can use 2% milk for a slightly lighter sauce, but whole milk is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds extra richness and velvety texture to the cheese sauce, making it incredibly decadent.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the cheese sauce that cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream.
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, slightly sweet, and aromatic spice that complements the cheese and enhances the overall flavor of the mac and cheese. Freshly grated nutmeg is ideal, but ground nutmeg will also work.
• 1 pound sharp cheddar cheese, grated: Sharp cheddar cheese provides the classic mac and cheese flavor. Using freshly grated cheese is essential as pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• 8 ounces Gruyere cheese, grated: Gruyere cheese adds a nutty, slightly sweet, and complex flavor that complements the cheddar and elevates the cheese sauce. It also melts beautifully, contributing to the creamy texture.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning the cheese sauce is just as important as seasoning the tomatoes. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking, keeping in mind that the cheeses will also contribute saltiness.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens up the dish. It’s an optional garnish but recommended for visual appeal and a touch of freshness.
• Breadcrumbs (for topping, optional): Breadcrumbs, especially panko breadcrumbs, add a delightful crispy topping to the mac and cheese. Toss them with a little melted butter and Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and texture if desired.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own mouthwatering Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese. Each step is designed to guide you through the process, ensuring success and a truly delicious final dish.

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the tomatoes in, allowing for even roasting and caramelization.
2. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the Roma tomatoes and cut them in half lengthwise. This exposes more surface area for roasting and allows them to cook more quickly.
3. Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the halved tomatoes cut-side up on a large baking sheet. This orientation allows the juices to concentrate and the tomatoes to caramelize properly.
4. Add garlic: Scatter the unpeeled garlic cloves among the tomatoes on the baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle the tomatoes and garlic with olive oil, ensuring they are lightly coated.
6. Season: Sprinkle the tomatoes and garlic with dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine and ensure even seasoning.
7. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened, slightly caramelized, and have released their juices. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the ripeness of the tomatoes. They should be tender and slightly wrinkled.
8. Cool slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tomatoes and garlic cool slightly. This will make them easier to handle in the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Tomato Sauce

1. Squeeze roasted garlic: Once the garlic cloves are cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted garlic pulp out of their skins into a bowl. Discard the skins. Roasted garlic should be soft and easily squeezed out.
2. Combine roasted tomatoes and garlic: Transfer the roasted tomatoes and their juices from the baking sheet to the bowl with the roasted garlic.
3. Blend (optional): For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can leave the tomatoes chunky for a more rustic texture. If using a regular blender, be careful when blending hot liquids and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
4. Set aside: Set the roasted tomato sauce aside while you prepare the macaroni and cheese sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

1. Cook macaroni according to package directions: While the tomatoes are roasting, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions for al dente. Al dente pasta will hold its shape better in the baked mac and cheese and prevent it from becoming mushy.
2. Drain macaroni: Once cooked, drain the macaroni well and set aside. It’s important to drain the pasta thoroughly to prevent excess water from diluting the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. A heavy-bottomed saucepan will distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
2. Add flour and cook roux: Once the butter is melted, add the all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the roux is smooth and lightly golden. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a base for the cheese sauce. Don’t let the roux brown too much, as it will affect the color and flavor of the sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and cream: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, a little at a time, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This prevents lumps from forming and creates a smooth sauce. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken slightly.
4. Simmer and thicken: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Simmering allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove from heat and add cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually add the grated sharp cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adding the cheese off the heat prevents it from becoming grainy or oily.
6. Stir in mustard and nutmeg: Stir in the Dijon mustard and nutmeg. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the cheese sauce.
7. Season to taste: Season the cheese sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating the oven again for baking ensures the mac and cheese bakes evenly and develops a golden crust.
2. Combine macaroni, cheese sauce, and roasted tomato sauce: Add the cooked and drained macaroni and the prepared roasted tomato sauce to the cheese sauce in the saucepan. Stir gently to combine everything evenly, ensuring the macaroni is well coated with both sauces.
3. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. A baking dish of this size allows for even baking and a good proportion of crispy topping if using breadcrumbs.
4. Add breadcrumb topping (optional): If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese. For extra flavor, you can toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese before sprinkling.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni and cheese is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the topping (if used) is golden brown. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
6. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Servings: Approximately 8-10 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550-650 calories

Note: These nutrition facts are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. This recipe is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and protein, primarily from the pasta, cheese, and dairy. It also provides some vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and dairy.

Preparation Time

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation time for this Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese recipe:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes chopping tomatoes, preparing ingredients, and making the roux)
• Roasting Time: 45 minutes (roasting tomatoes and garlic)
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (cooking pasta, making cheese sauce, and assembling)
• Baking Time: 25 minutes (baking the assembled mac and cheese)
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Active Time: Approximately 1 hour (hands-on time for prepping, cooking, and assembling)
Inactive Time: Approximately 1 hour (roasting and baking time where the dish is cooking in the oven without active intervention)

This recipe requires a bit of time, but the result is well worth the effort. You can break up the preparation by roasting the tomatoes ahead of time, even a day in advance, to shorten the cooking time on the day you plan to serve the dish.

How to Serve

Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas for serving:

• As a Main Course:
  • Classic Comfort: Serve it as a hearty and satisfying main course on its own, especially on a cozy night. It’s rich and filling enough to be the star of the meal.
  • With a Simple Salad: Pair it with a light and fresh green salad or a Caesar salad to balance the richness of the mac and cheese. The acidity of the salad dressing will cut through the creamy sauce nicely.
  • Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a more balanced and nutritious meal. The roasted vegetables complement the roasted tomato flavors in the mac and cheese.
• As a Side Dish:
  • BBQ Companion: It’s a fantastic side dish for barbecues and potlucks, complementing grilled meats like burgers, ribs, or chicken.
  • Holiday Table Staple: Consider adding it to your holiday table as a crowd-pleasing side dish, especially for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a delicious alternative to traditional side dishes.
  • With Roasted Chicken or Pork: Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or ham for a comforting and flavorful meal.
• Garnishing and Presentation:
  • Fresh Parsley: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Extra Cheese: Sprinkle with a little extra grated cheese before serving for a more decadent presentation.
  • Breadcrumbs: If you didn’t use breadcrumbs for baking, you can sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving for added texture.
  • Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who like a little extra heat.

Additional Tips

Here are five helpful tips to elevate your Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese to the next level:

1. Cheese Variety is Key: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations. While cheddar and Gruyere are excellent, try adding a bit of Fontina for extra meltiness, Gouda for a smoky note, or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. A blend of 2-3 cheeses will create a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
2. Roast Extra Tomatoes: Roasting a larger batch of tomatoes and garlic than you need for this recipe is a great time-saving tip. Roasted tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used in various dishes like pasta sauces, soups, or as a topping for bruschetta.
3. Spice it Up: If you enjoy a spicier mac and cheese, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. You can also incorporate a diced jalapeno pepper or poblano pepper into the roasted tomatoes for a different kind of heat.
4. Breadcrumb Topping Variations: Get creative with your breadcrumb topping. Try using panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese, dried herbs like Italian seasoning, or even some finely chopped crispy bacon for added flavor and texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
5. Make it Ahead: Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese is a great dish to prepare in advance. You can assemble it completely and refrigerate it, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. Alternatively, you can roast the tomatoes and make the cheese sauce ahead of time, and then assemble and bake just before serving.

FAQ Section

Here are five frequently asked questions about Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese:

Q1: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes, absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can use other short pasta shapes like cavatappi, shells, penne, or rotini. Choose pasta that has ridges or curves to hold the cheese sauce well.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, you would need to substitute the dairy cheese and milk/cream with vegan alternatives. Vegan cheese and plant-based milk and cream are available, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly from traditional dairy versions. You can find vegan cheddar and Gruyere style cheeses and use plant-based milk like oat or cashew milk, and vegan cream for the sauce.

Q3: How do I store leftover Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese?
A: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating can help restore its creamy texture.

Q4: Can I freeze Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked mac and cheese, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating. For best results, freeze it in individual portions or in a freezer-safe dish tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Ensure the pasta is specifically labeled gluten-free. The cheese sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, as are the roasted tomatoes. Double-check all ingredient labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.

This Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With its rich, creamy cheese sauce and the sweet, savory depth of roasted tomatoes, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious dish and the smiles it brings to your table!

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