Easy Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe

Ziti Al Forno is one of Olive Garden’s most beloved dishes, featuring a rich, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta. This homemade version simplifies the ingredient list while still delivering the comforting, indulgent flavors you love. With minimal effort and a handful of pantry staples, you can recreate this restaurant favorite at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick – Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe comes together in under an hour.
• Rich and Cheesy – A combination of five cheeses gives this dish its signature creamy and gooey texture.
• Customizable – You can modify the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish reheats beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ cup shredded provolone cheese
• ¼ cup shredded Romano cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for a crunchy topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (if using breadcrumbs)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with the prepared sauce.
7. Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, provolone, and Romano cheeses, reserving a little mozzarella for topping.

Step 4: Add the Topping

8. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the pasta.
9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

Step 5: Bake

10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

12. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

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Variations

• Add Protein – Mix in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or ground beef for extra heartiness.
• Make it Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
• Vegetable Boost – Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Storing

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone can be substituted for a similar creamy texture.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Do I have to use five cheeses?

No, you can simplify with just mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta for a delicious result.

Can I make this without Alfredo sauce?

Yes, substitute with extra marinara or a mix of heavy cream and Parmesan.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add more ricotta or Alfredo sauce for a richer texture.

What type of pasta works best?

Ziti is ideal, but penne or rigatoni can also be used.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as your cheeses and sauces don’t contain animal rennet.

Can I use store-bought cheese blends?

Absolutely! A pre-shredded Italian cheese mix works great.

How do I prevent dry pasta?

Make sure to coat the pasta well with sauce and avoid overbaking.

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Conclusion

This Easy Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno brings the restaurant experience to your kitchen with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a cozy homemade meal any night of the week!

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