The Ina Garten version tasted like an adult-friendly version of a childhood favorite, while the Martha Stewart version was more classic. The tomatoes added a ton of tart flavor to the dish and a unique texture, but I was torn over which I preferred.
Both recipes have their high points, but I couldn't ignore the fact that the Ina Garten recipe was cheaper due to the fact I only needed two kinds of cheese. It was also dramatically easier to make. With the Stewart version, I had to prep onions and grate four kinds of cheese, for not that much more flavor in the end.
If I was to choose which one to make again, I would definitely opt for the Ina Garten macaroni and cheese.