Classic American Cheesy Tomato Bliss

Indulge in this warm embrace of cheesy macaroni with juicy tomatoes—a comforting classic with a flavorful twist.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Begin by bringing a medium-sized pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt and pour in 1 cup of elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta for about 7-8 minutes until it is al dente, tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Taste a piece to ensure it has reached the desired texture, and if necessary, extend the cooking time by a minute or two.
2. 2.
   While the pasta is cooking, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of whole milk and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir the mixture continuously to prevent the milk from scalding or sticking to the bottom of the pan. As soon as the milk begins to steam and small bubbles appear around the edges, reduce the heat to low.
3. 3.
   Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, and return it to the pot. Immediately add the warm milk mixture and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the hot pasta. Stir gently but quickly, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly. The result should be a creamy, velvety sauce that coats each piece of pasta. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash more milk until the desired consistency is achieved.
4. 4.
   Add 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes into the cheesy macaroni mixture. Gently fold the tomatoes in, ensuring they are evenly distributed. The tomatoes will add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed. Stir until everything is well-combined, and the cheese sauce thickens slightly.
5. 5.
   Serve hot, savoring the rich, cheesy flavor that's balanced perfectly by the bright, juicy tomatoes. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle a little more cheese on top and place under a broiler until bubbling and golden brown.