Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe

There's nothing quite like the cheesy, creamy goodness of Olive Garden's Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno. This indulgent pasta dish is a comfort food classic, combining perfectly cooked ziti, a rich tomato sauce, and a luscious blend of five cheeses for the ultimate in decadence.

The first time I tried this dish at Olive Garden, I knew I had to recreate it at home. Whether you're craving the signature flavors of this restaurant favorite or looking for a crowd-pleaser to add to your dinner rotation, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and bring that restaurant magic to your kitchen.

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

Get ready to fall head over heels for this creamy, cheesy pasta dish. Here's why this copycat recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table.

First, it's a spot-on replica of Olive Garden's beloved entrée. With a perfect balance of tangy marinara and creamy Alfredo, this dish will transport you straight to your favorite Italian restaurant.

Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. You can whip up this dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

Another reason to love this recipe? The five-cheese blend. With mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano, ricotta, and fontina, every bite is a cheesy, melty dream come true.

Finally, it’s a one-dish wonder. Serve it with a side salad and breadsticks, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet luxurious ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature Olive Garden flavor.

• Ziti Pasta: The backbone of this dish. Ziti's tubular shape holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Penne is a great substitute if ziti isn’t available.
• Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara, or make it from scratch for an even more authentic taste. Look for a sauce with a balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Alfredo Sauce: The creamy component that takes this dish to the next level. Store-bought Alfredo works in a pinch, but a homemade version gives a richer flavor.
• The Five Cheeses:
  • Ricotta: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy base.
  • Mozzarella: Melts into gooey perfection.
  • Parmesan: Provides a nutty, salty kick.
  • Romano: Adds depth and a slightly sharper flavor.
  • Fontina: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, buttery note.
• Breadcrumbs: A mix of breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates the irresistible golden crust on top.

No special equipment is needed for this recipe, just your trusty baking dish, a pot for boiling pasta, and a skillet for mixing the sauce.

How To Make This Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Creating this delicious pasta dish is easier than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

1. Cook the pasta
   Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente, as the pasta will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce blend
   In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and Alfredo sauce over medium heat. Stir until heated through and well combined. Add a touch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors.
3. Mix the cheeses
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses. Stir in half of the sauce blend to create a creamy, cheesy mixture.
4. Assemble the dish
   Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, cheese mixture, and remaining sauce. Top with shredded fontina cheese for an extra cheesy layer.
5. Add the breadcrumb topping
   In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan with a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.
6. Bake until bubbly
   Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this dish stores beautifully.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the entire dish up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein-packed: Add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even shrimp for a heartier version.
• Vegetarian twist: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted zucchini for extra veggies.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Cheese swap: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone or asiago for a unique flavor profile.

This Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant classic or looking for an easy dinner idea, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

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