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Delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Mac with Mozzarella Pulls recipe photo

Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Mac with Mozzarella Pulls

This Sun-Dried Tomato Baked Mac with Mozzarella Pulls is a comforting, cheesy pasta bake bursting with rich flavors and irresistible gooey cheese pulls.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni the perfect pasta shape to hold onto the sauce
  • 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes chopped, packed with intense flavor
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, for those irresistible cheese pulls
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese adds creaminess and a subtle tang
  • 2 cups shredded chicken cooked, tender and protein-packed
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated, for a sharp, nutty flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder aromatic and savory
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder adds subtle sweetness
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for a gentle kick
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
  • 1/2 cup milk to create a smooth sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing and richness
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil a classic Italian herb
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano adds earthiness

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch)
  • Oven mitts
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. This helps release their flavor and softens them slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, cooked shredded chicken, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, dried basil, and oregano. Pour in the milk and stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
  4. Add the cooked elbow macaroni and sautéed sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese and chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is well coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle an extra handful of shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that golden, bubbly crust. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
  6. Remove the baked mac from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Serve warm, and watch as the mozzarella cheese pulls stretch with every forkful—pure comfort food magic.

Notes

  • If the baked mac is dry, add a splash more milk to the cheese mixture before baking next time.
  • Use freshly shredded mozzarella instead of pre-shredded for better melting and cheesy pulls.
  • Cook the macaroni al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven to avoid mushiness.
  • Soak sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping to soften them.
  • For added freshness, garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.