Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe

There's something magical about digging into a piping-hot plate of Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno. The creamy, cheesy sauce bubbling under a layer of golden, melted cheese is pure comfort in every bite. This copycat recipe captures all the indulgent flavors of the restaurant favorite, perfect for satisfying your Italian food cravings at home.

I first fell in love with this dish during a family dinner at Olive Garden, and ever since, it's been my mission to recreate it. With this recipe, you’ll have that same irresistible ziti at home, and the best part? It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.

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

Get ready to meet your new go-to pasta recipe. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just looking for a crowd-pleaser, this dish ticks all the boxes.

First off, it’s incredibly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a single baking dish, you can create restaurant-quality pasta without breaking a sweat.

The flavors are out of this world. This dish combines five different cheeses—mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, ricotta, and fontina—to create a rich, gooey sauce that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent.

It’s also family-friendly. Even picky eaters will adore the creamy texture and savory flavors. Plus, you can customize it with extras like chicken, sausage, or veggies to suit everyone’s preferences.

Finally, this recipe is an excellent make-ahead option. Prepare it earlier in the day and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It’s perfect for busy nights or dinner parties when you want to spend more time with guests than in the kitchen.

Ingredients Notes

This recipe is all about the cheese. The combination of five different cheeses ensures the perfect balance of creamy, melty, and tangy flavors. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients:

• Ziti pasta: The backbone of this dish. Its tubular shape is perfect for holding onto the luscious cheese sauce. You can substitute penne if needed.
• Mozzarella cheese: Brings that signature gooeyness to the dish. Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt.
• Parmesan and Romano cheeses: These hard, salty cheeses add depth and a slightly nutty flavor. Freshly grated is ideal but pre-grated works in a pinch.
• Ricotta cheese: Gives the sauce its creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Look for whole-milk ricotta for extra richness.
• Fontina cheese: Melts beautifully and has a buttery, tangy flavor that ties the other cheeses together.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought marinara or make your own for a fresher taste.
• Heavy cream: Adds luxurious creaminess to the sauce. If you’re watching calories, half-and-half works as a lighter substitute.

You’ll also need a casserole dish and a large pot for boiling the pasta. A good cheese grater is helpful for preparing the cheeses.

How To Make Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

This delicious dish comes together in a few simple steps. Here’s how to make it:

1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the ziti until it’s just al dente—remember, it will cook further in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, and fontina cheeses with the heavy cream and marinara sauce. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked pasta and cheese sauce, making sure each piece of pasta is coated. Top with an extra layer of mozzarella and Parmesan for that golden crust.
4. Bake to perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Serve and enjoy: Let the ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad for the ultimate Olive Garden experience at home.

This dish takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this ziti are almost as good as the freshly baked dish! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerator: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sauce for a little heat.
• Swap the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, asiago, or gouda for a unique twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and check your marinara sauce for hidden gluten to accommodate dietary needs.

Creating your own Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno at home is easier than you think. With its comforting flavors, customizable options, and simple preparation, it’s a dish you’ll turn to time and time again. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with family and friends!

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