Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe

There’s something magical about the creamy, cheesy goodness of Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno. With its luscious layers of cheese, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich marinara sauce, this dish is comfort food at its finest. Recreating this restaurant favorite at home is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect option for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

I remember the first time I tried this dish at Olive Garden – it was love at first bite! The combination of cheeses and baked-to-perfection pasta instantly became a favorite in our household. Now, it’s a regular on our dinner rotation, bringing all the joys of dining out right to our kitchen table. Ready to make it yourself? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Get ready to fall in love with the perfect copycat version of Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno. It’s everything you crave in a baked pasta dish and more!

First, it’s super easy to make. Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, this recipe comes together effortlessly with simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps.

Second, the cheese factor is off the charts. With a blend of five different cheeses – mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, and Fontina – every bite is an explosion of creamy, savory flavor.

Another reason to love it? It’s budget-friendly. You can make this restaurant-quality dish at home for a fraction of the price, using pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving picky eaters, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, this ziti al forno will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno lies in its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Let’s break them down so you can get the most out of this recipe.

• Ziti Pasta: This tubular pasta is perfect for holding onto the rich marinara and cheese mixture. If you don’t have ziti on hand, penne or rigatoni work as great substitutes.
• Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara is key to this dish. Opt for a jarred sauce you love, or make your own for an extra-special touch.
• Cheese Blend: The stars of the show! The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, and Fontina gives the dish its signature richness. For the best results, grate your cheeses fresh – it makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Heavy Cream: This adds a velvety smoothness to the cheese mixture, creating that crave-worthy, creamy consistency.
• Seasonings: A mix of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes enhances the overall flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Don’t skip the breadcrumbs! A sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs on top gives the dish its golden, crispy finish.

Special Equipment: A 9x13-inch baking dish is ideal for layering and baking your ziti. You’ll also need a large pot for cooking the pasta and a mixing bowl for the cheese blend.

How to Make Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Creating this cheesy, comforting dish is simpler than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno at home.

1. Cook the Pasta
   Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your ziti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Mixture
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, and Fontina cheeses. Add a splash of heavy cream, a pinch of Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Prepare the Marinara Sauce
   Heat your marinara sauce in a medium saucepan, then stir in a little heavy cream to make it extra luscious.
4. Layer the Ingredients
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Add a layer of cooked ziti, then dollop the cheese mixture on top. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous sprinkling of cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Bake to Perfection
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a crisp salad and garlic bread for the ultimate Olive Garden experience at home!

Storage Options

This Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked ziti in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the ziti in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For smaller portions, use the microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to try:

• Protein Boost: Add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or shrimp for extra heartiness.
• Vegetarian Option: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie-packed twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish celiac-friendly.
• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use reduced-fat cheeses to cut back on calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the top for a touch of heat.

No matter how you customize it, this ziti al forno is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

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