Ellen's Italian Macaroni and Cheese

Ellen's Italian Mac & Cheese

Ellen, my next door neighbor, made this recipe for a party many years ago. The flavors are exactly everything I like. I can not get enough when this is on the menu. Give it a try. It is a great alternative to regular mac and cheese.

2 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
splash of milk

Topping:
Italian Bread Crumbs (like Progresso)
paprika
salt
pepper
1/2 cup cheddar cheese

Cook pasta two minutes under the time recommended on the box.
Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray.
Combine the cooked pasta with tomatoes, shredded cheese, butter,
milk, salt, pepper and garlic powder.
Place well combined mixture in the prepared casserole dish.
Top the mixture with a layer of Italian bread crumbs.
Sprinkle paprika over the bread crumbs and top with the additional
1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted.