Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Crushed Tomato Macaroni

Introduction

Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Crushed Tomato Macaroni is a simple, old-fashioned comfort dish that turns pantry staples into a warm, hearty meal. Inspired by traditional Amish-style cooking, this recipe keeps things easy and practical, combining tender macaroni with a rich tomato base and creamy baked finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, budget-friendly meals, or when you want something cozy without a lot of prep.

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 can (14–15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup whole milk

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente according to package directions. Drain well.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, crushed tomatoes, milk, and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
7. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Description

This baked macaroni dish is soft, creamy, and slightly tangy from the crushed tomatoes, with a cheesy topping that adds a satisfying golden crust. It’s not a heavy pasta bake, but rather a lighter, rustic casserole that feels homemade and nostalgic. The tomato and cheese combination gives it a classic flavor similar to a simple baked pasta supper from a country kitchen.

Tips

• Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become too soft during baking.
• Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
• If the mixture looks dry before baking, add a splash of extra milk.
• Letting it rest after baking helps the sauce thicken and settle.
• For a more browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Variations

• Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra seasoning.
• Mix in cooked ground beef or diced ham for a heartier meal.
• Substitute mozzarella for cheddar for a milder cheesy finish.
• Stir in a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess.
• Add a pinch of dried basil or oregano for an herby tomato flavor.

Correction

For the best consistency, make sure the pasta is drained thoroughly before mixing so the sauce doesn’t become watery. If using very thick crushed tomatoes, you may need an extra 1/4 cup milk to keep the casserole creamy while baking.

Enjoy

Serve this Oven-Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Crushed Tomato Macaroni hot, straight from the oven, with a side of buttered bread or a simple green salad. It’s a humble, satisfying dish that proves a delicious homemade meal doesn’t need a long ingredient list.