Olive Garden–Style Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno because it’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and rich tomato sauce, all baked together to create a comforting, hearty meal. The five-cheese blend melts beautifully over the pasta, creating a luscious, velvety texture that’s irresistible. It’s simple to make but feels indulgent enough for any occasion, and the leftovers (if there are any) are just as amazing the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups marinara sauce

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup shredded provolone cheese

• ½ cup shredded fontina cheese

• 1 tsp dried basil (optional, for extra flavor)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the Ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Make the Sauce:

2. Sauté and Combine: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil if using.

Assemble the Ziti:

3. Combine Pasta and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce. Then, add the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and fontina. Stir everything together gently to mix the pasta and cheese evenly.

4. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Bake:

5. Bake the Ziti: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

6. Optional Broil: For an extra crispy top, broil the ziti on high for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serve:

7. Garnish and Serve: Let the ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 40-45 minutes, including baking. It’s a perfect meal for busy nights when you want something comforting and indulgent without too much effort.

Variations

• Add meat: For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken to the pasta mixture.

• Vegetarian version: If you prefer a vegetarian version, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

• Use different cheeses: Feel free to substitute the cheeses based on your preferences. Cheddar, Gouda, or Ricotta Salata are great alternatives to the cheeses listed here.

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. To preserve the cheesy texture, cover the baking dish with foil while reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes if baking from the fridge.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked ziti. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the ziti with penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi for a different shape that holds the cheesy sauce well.

How do I make this dish lighter?

To make this dish lighter, you can use low-fat ricotta and light mozzarella. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and use more vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to balance out the richness.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes! For convenience, you can use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce. However, making your own sauce can add extra flavor if you have the time.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden–Style Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno is the ultimate baked pasta dish, combining five types of cheese with savory marinara sauce and perfectly cooked ziti for a rich, indulgent meal. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s a comforting classic that everyone will love!