Imagine a magical dish that combines simplicity, speed, and mouthwatering flavor - all in just one pot! This One Pot Macaroni and Tomatoes is the ultimate lifesaver for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're a tired parent, a college student, or just someone who craves a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe is about to become your new best friend. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you'll have a hearty, comforting meal on the table in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, ensuring the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Stir gently to distribute the pasta evenly.
- Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Allow the pasta to cook, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a small amount of additional broth.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the remaining liquid to be absorbed and the pasta to finish cooking.
- Stir one final time, then serve hot directly from the skillet. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While elbow macaroni works perfectly, you can experiment with other short pasta shapes like shells or rotini for variety.
- Don't Overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The goal is tender pasta that's not mushy.
- Liquid is Key: The broth-to-pasta ratio is crucial. If the mixture looks too dry during cooking, add a little more vegetable broth to prevent burning.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, some red pepper flakes, or fresh basil at the end to elevate the flavor.
- Make it a Complete Meal: For extra protein, you can add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or even canned beans to make the dish more substantial.
- Storage Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. Reheat with a splash of additional broth to restore moisture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 171kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
