Name: Five Cheese Ziti al Forno (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For Pasta:; 1 lb ziti pasta; 4 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups Alfredo sauce; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ½ cup Fontina cheese; For Topping:; 2 cups Mozzarella cheese; ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs; ¼ cup romano cheese; ¼ cup parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this five cheese ziti al forno. This baked pasta dish combines a rich blend of marinara and alfredo sauces with five different cheeses to create a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress.

Photos of Five Cheese Ziti al Forno (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be common staples in your pantry. For instance, fontina cheese and ricotta cheese are not as commonly found as mozzarella or parmesan. When you visit the supermarket, make sure to check the specialty cheese section for these items.

Ingredients for Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

ziti pasta: A tube-shaped pasta that holds onto the sauce well.

marinara sauce: A classic tomato-based sauce for rich flavor.

alfredo sauce: A creamy, buttery sauce made with Parmesan cheese.

ricotta cheese: A soft, creamy cheese that adds richness.

fontina cheese: A semi-soft cheese with a mild, nutty flavor.

mozzarella cheese: A classic melting cheese that becomes stretchy and gooey.

panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that add a crunchy topping.

romano cheese: A hard, salty cheese with a tangy flavor.

parmesan cheese: A hard cheese with a nutty, savory taste.

garlic: Fresh cloves to add aromatic flavor.

One reader, Justine Spriggs says:

The five cheese ziti al forno is a cheesy delight! The blend of marinara and alfredo sauces with ricotta and fontina creates a rich, creamy dish. The crispy, golden topping adds the perfect crunch. A comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Justine Spriggs

Techniques Required for Making Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

How to cook pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the pasta 1 minute shy of the directions on the box. Drain the pasta. How to mix ingredients: Combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, and fontina cheese in a large metal bowl and mix well. How to prepare topping: Mix the mozzarella, panko, romano, parmesan, and minced garlic together in a bowl. How to bake: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F, transfer the pasta mixture to an oven-safe skillet or 9x13-inch pan, add the topping, and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

How To Make Five Cheese Ziti al Forno (Olive Garden Copycat)

Cook this Olive Garden-inspired five cheese ziti al forno cooked with marinara and alfredo sauce then topped with cheeses baked until golden and bubbly.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Pasta:

1lbziti pasta
4cupsmarinara sauce
2cupsalfredo sauce
½cupricotta cheese
½cupfontina cheese,shredded

For Topping:

2cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded
½cuppanko breadcrumbs
¼cupRomano cheese,grated
¼cupParmesan cheese,grated
2clovesgarlic,minced

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Cook the pasta 1 minute shy of the directions on the box and drain.
In a large metal bowl, add the pasta, marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, and fontina cheese and mix well.
Add to a large oven-safe skillet or 9×13-inch pan.
Mix the mozzarella, panko, Romano, Parmesan, and garlic together and add the topping over the pasta.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes uncovered until golden brown and bubbly.

Nutrition

Calories: 740.26kcal
Fat: 36.10g
Saturated Fat: 18.55g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.97g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.18g
Carbohydrates: 67.97g
Fiber: 4.89g
Sugar: 11.32g
Protein: 34.85g
Cholesterol: 101.21mg
Sodium: 1957.00mg
Calcium: 737.94mg
Potassium: 700.39mg
Iron: 2.36mg
Vitamin A: 240.52µg
Vitamin C: 2.87mg

Technique Tip for Achieving the Perfect Cheesy Crust

To ensure your ziti pasta absorbs maximum flavor, toss it with a bit of marinara sauce immediately after draining. This prevents the pasta from sticking together and allows it to soak up the sauce while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Baked Ziti

Pre-cook the pasta: Cook the ziti pasta a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to bake the dish.

Use store-bought sauces: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and alfredo sauce from the store to cut down on preparation time.

Pre-grate the cheese: Grate all your cheeses in advance and store them in separate containers. This will make assembly quicker.

Assemble in advance: Assemble the entire dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.

Use garlic paste: Substitute fresh garlic with pre-minced garlic or garlic paste to save chopping time.

Substitute Ingredients For Five Cheese Ziti al Forno (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe

ziti pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne has a similar shape and texture, making it a great alternative for holding sauces.
marinara sauce - Substitute with tomato basil sauce: Tomato basil sauce offers a similar tomato base with a hint of basil for added flavor.
alfredo sauce - Substitute with creamy garlic sauce: Creamy garlic sauce provides a rich, creamy texture with a garlic twist, similar to alfredo.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative.
fontina cheese - Substitute with gruyere cheese: Gruyere melts well and has a nutty flavor that complements the dish.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone melts similarly and has a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can provide a similar crunchy topping.
romano cheese - Substitute with asiago cheese: Asiago has a similar sharp and tangy flavor profile.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar hard texture and salty flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.

Best Way to Present Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

Use a pristine white plate: Choose a large, pristine white plate to create a clean canvas that highlights the vibrant colors of the five cheese ziti al forno.
Create a pasta nest: Twirl a portion of the ziti pasta with a large fork to form a neat, compact nest in the center of the plate. This adds height and visual interest.
Layer the sauces: Drizzle a small amount of marinara sauce and alfredo sauce artistically around the pasta nest. Use a squeeze bottle for precision.
Add a cheese crisp: Create a parmesan cheese crisp by baking grated parmesan on parchment paper until golden. Place the crisp upright in the pasta nest for an elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh basil and parsley over the dish. This adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma.
Incorporate microgreens: Add a small handful of microgreens on top of the pasta nest for a modern, sophisticated look.
Finish with a garlic oil drizzle: Lightly drizzle garlic-infused olive oil over the entire dish to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
Serve with a side of toasted bread: Place a couple of slices of toasted garlic bread on the side of the plate to complement the pasta and provide texture contrast.
Add a touch of truffle: For an extra layer of luxury, shave a few slices of black truffle over the top of the pasta just before serving.
Present with a wine pairing: Suggest a glass of Chianti or Pinot Grigio to accompany the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cheesy Baked Ziti

Oven: Used to bake the ziti al forno until it is golden brown and bubbly.
Large pot: Necessary for boiling the ziti pasta.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked pasta.
Large metal bowl: For mixing the pasta with marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, and fontina cheese.
Oven-safe skillet: An alternative to a baking dish for baking the pasta.
9x13-inch pan: Another option for baking the pasta if you don't use an oven-safe skillet.
Mixing spoon: To mix the pasta and sauces together thoroughly.
Cheese grater: For grating the fontina, romano, and parmesan cheeses if they are not pre-grated.
Garlic press: To mince the garlic cloves for the topping.
Measuring cups: To measure out the sauces, cheeses, and breadcrumbs accurately.
Knife: For chopping or mincing the garlic if you don't use a garlic press.
Cutting board: A surface to chop or mince the garlic on.
Mixing bowl: For combining the mozzarella, panko, romano, parmesan, and garlic for the topping.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

Let the five cheese ziti al forno cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled ziti to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For freezing, portion the cooled ziti into individual servings or freeze the entire dish. Wrap the portions or dish securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents.
Frozen five cheese ziti al forno can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To reheat refrigerated ziti, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen ziti, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating from frozen, increase the baking time to 30-40 minutes, or until the dish is hot and bubbly.
Tip: To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating five cheese ziti al forno in the microwave, as it may cause the pasta to become mushy and the cheese to separate.

How to Reheat Leftover Baked Ziti

To reheat leftover five cheese ziti al forno, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the pasta will heat through evenly without drying out or burning the cheese on top.
Cover the skillet or baking dish containing the leftover ziti with aluminum foil. This helps to retain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out during the reheating process. If the pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of water or marinara sauce before covering it with foil.
Place the covered ziti in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the amount of leftover pasta and the depth of your dish. The goal is to heat the pasta through until it's steaming hot and the cheese is melted.
After 15-20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will help to crisp up the breadcrumb topping and restore some of the texture that may have been lost during refrigeration.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual portions of five cheese ziti al forno in the microwave. Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted. Be sure to stir the pasta halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a crispy top layer, after microwaving, you can place the individual serving under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the ziti before serving. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it's safe to eat.

Random Fact About Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

A fun fact about this five cheese ziti al forno recipe is that it combines both marinara sauce and alfredo sauce, creating a rich and creamy flavor profile that is both tangy and savory. This dual-sauce approach is not very common in traditional Italian pasta dishes, making it a unique and indulgent twist.

Is Making Baked Ziti at Home Cost-Effective?

When considering the cost-effectiveness of this five cheese ziti al forno, the blend of marinara sauce, alfredo sauce, and multiple cheeses like ricotta, fontina, mozzarella, romano, and parmesan can add up. However, the ingredients are generally accessible and can be bought in bulk for savings. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25 USD. Given the rich flavors and satisfying nature of the dish, the overall verdict would be a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Cheesy Baked Ziti Healthy or Unhealthy?

The five cheese ziti al forno recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The dish is high in calories due to the generous amounts of cheese and sauces used.
The recipe calls for five different types of cheese, which means it's loaded with saturated fat and sodium.
The use of alfredo sauce, which is typically made with heavy cream and butter, further increases the dish's fat content.
The recipe lacks vegetables or any significant source of fiber, which are essential for a balanced meal.

However, there are ways to make this dish healthier without compromising on taste:

Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, or opt for low-fat versions of the cheeses.
Replace the alfredo sauce with a lighter, homemade version using low-fat milk and cornstarch for thickening.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as:
- Sautéed spinach
- Diced zucchini
- Sliced mushrooms
- Chopped bell peppers
Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content.
Reduce the portion size and serve the ziti alongside a fresh, crisp salad to balance out the meal.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a healthier version of this comforting pasta dish without sacrificing the satisfying flavors of the original recipe.

Editor's Thoughts on This Cheesy Baked Pasta Dish

This five cheese ziti al forno recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures. The combination of marinara and alfredo sauces creates a creamy, tangy base that pairs beautifully with the ricotta and fontina cheeses. The topping, with its mix of mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, romano, parmesan, and garlic, adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. Baking it until golden brown ensures a perfect, bubbly finish. Overall, it's a comforting and indulgent dish that's sure to impress.

Enhance Your Five Cheese Ziti al Forno (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your five cheese ziti al forno.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers: Complement your main course with succulent shrimp skewers, marinated in a rich garlic butter sauce. The savory and buttery notes will harmonize beautifully with the cheesy goodness of your ziti.

Caprese Salad with Heirloom Tomatoes: A refreshing Caprese salad featuring vibrant heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This light and colorful side dish will provide a perfect balance to the hearty pasta.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, where the rich flavors of tomatoes and fresh basil meld together in a velvety embrace. This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with the cheesy layers of your ziti al forno.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your meal with grilled asparagus spears, lightly charred and finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest. The bright citrus notes will cut through the richness of the five cheese ziti, creating a delightful contrast.

Similar Recipes to Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

Baked Penne With Sausage: Indulge in this hearty dish featuring penne pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a rich blend of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Experience the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese and spinach stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, all smothered in a luscious tomato sauce and baked to perfection.

Chicken Alfredo Bake: Savor the classic flavors of chicken breast and alfredo sauce combined with pasta and topped with a golden layer of parmesan cheese. A comforting and satisfying meal.

Vegetable Lasagna: Delight in layers of lasagna noodles, zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach nestled between creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce. A vegetarian's dream come true.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta: Treat yourself to succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlicky butter sauce with a hint of lemon, tossed with linguine and sprinkled with fresh parsley. A seafood lover's delight.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Five Cheese Ziti al Forno

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of stuffed mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and a hint of garlic. The mushrooms are baked until golden and tender, creating a perfect balance of textures. Serve these at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with a classic bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This mixture is then spooned onto toasted baguette slices, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy bread and the juicy topping. Perfect for a light and refreshing start to any meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in the rich layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese. The delicate balance of cocoa powder and coffee liqueur creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a sophisticated end to your meal, this Italian classic is both elegant and satisfying.

Crème Brûlée: Experience the creamy delight of vanilla custard topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. The contrast between the smooth custard and the crunchy topping is a textural masterpiece. Serve this French delicacy in individual ramekins for a touch of elegance that will impress your guests.

Why trust this Five Cheese Ziti al Forno (Olive Garden Copycat) Recipe:

This recipe for five cheese ziti al forno combines the rich flavors of marinara sauce and alfredo sauce with a blend of ricotta, fontina, mozzarella, romano, and parmesan cheeses. The panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, while the garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth. Each ingredient is carefully selected to create a harmonious and indulgent meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors, ensuring a satisfying and delicious experience.

Want to share your experience making Five Cheese Ziti al Forno or discuss tips for recreating this Olive Garden favorite at home? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This dish is already vegetarian! It uses a combination of cheeses and sauces without any meat. Just make sure your marinara and alfredo sauces are vegetarian-friendly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other tubular pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.

What can I use instead of fontina cheese?

If you can't find fontina, you can substitute it with gouda, provolone, or even mozzarella. Each will give a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350 degrees F until heated through.