Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno – Experience the indulgence of Olive Gardens Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno, a classic Italian dish that is both quick and easy to prepare. This mouthwatering main course combines the richness of five cheeses, with ziti pasta all bathed in a marinara sauce. In 20 minutes you can create a family favorite that is guaranteed to impress. Let’s embark on this adventure. Bring the authentic taste of Olive Garden right into your home.
The first time I whipped up this dish the enticing aroma alone filled the kitchen with anticipation. As the cheese bubbled and the breadcrumbs crisped to perfection I couldn’t help to smile, knowing that my husband and child were about to savor a cheesy Italian masterpiece. It quickly became a choice in our household. I was eager to share it with my readers.
What makes this Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno truly exceptional?
This recipe for Olive Gardens Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno truly stands out due to its combination of five cheeses; Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, Fontina and mozzarella. The result is a dish, with a texture that is simply unmatched. Beyond its cheesy allure what makes this recipe exceptional is its remarkable speed and simplicity. It can be prepared in 20 minutes! This makes it perfect for those dinners when time is precious. By bringing the flavors of Olive Garden into the confines of your own kitchen this recipe allows you to relish the true essence of dining at an Italian restaurant without leaving the comforts of home. It’s a way to impress your loved ones and friends, with its charm.
What You Need To Make This Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe?
Marinara Sauce: For the marinara sauce, it’s best to opt for a high-quality one as it sets the foundation, for the dish’s flavor. You have the option to either use store-bought sauce or make your own from scratch if you want a personalized touch.
Heavy Cream: To achieve a creamy texture in the sauce add some cream. Adjust the amount according to your preference for creaminess; adding cream will result in a richer sauce.
Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer a chunkier texture diced tomatoes can be used. Just make sure to drain them to avoid moisture in the dish. Alternatively using tomatoes will give a more vibrant flavor.
Sugar: A touch of sugar is recommended to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the taste of the sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.
Parmesan Cheese Blend: To infuse a savory flavor into your sauce go for a Parmesan cheese blend that includes Parmesan, Romano, and Asiago cheeses. Using freshly grated cheese will enhance both its creaminess and depth.
Fontina Cheese: Fontina cheese is perfect for adding richness, to this dish. However, if you don’t have Fontina on hand grated Monterey Jack cheese works as a substitute.
Mozzarella Cheese: Lastly let’s not forget about mozzarella cheese! It’s what gives that gooeyness and stretchiness we all love in this dish. Shredded mozzarella cheese melts wonderfully resulting in a luscious topping.
Breadcrumbs: For a crispy texture and an attractive brown appearance, we sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Panko breadcrumbs are particularly great as they provide a crunchier texture.
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Steps To Make Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno:
Step 1: Start by following the instructions, on the box to cook the ziti pasta. Once it’s cooked drain it. Rinse with water. Then toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Set it aside.
Step 2: In a saucepan combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and a touch of sugar. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Next, add in half a cup each of Parmesan cheese blend, Fontina cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Stir this blend until it becomes bubbly and then remove from heat.
Step 3: Take the ziti pasta. Transfer it to an oven-safe serving dish. Now generously pour the sauce over the pasta ensuring that every piece gets coated with that cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Sprinkle a cup of mozzarella cheese along with a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese blend on top. Additionally, add some breadcrumbs for that crispy crust.
Step 5: Time to broil your masterpiece! Just pop it in the oven until the cheese turns brown and starts to bubble. Finally before serving garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, for that perfect finishing touch.
Tip:
For a crispy and golden brown breadcrumb topping gently toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet, over medium heat for a couple of minutes. Once they’re nicely toasted, sprinkle them over the ziti. This extra touch enhances their texture. Adds a touch, to your Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno dish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with types of pasta, for this recipe. While Ziti is an option you can get creative. Use your preferred pasta shape to add a personalized touch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe can be easily adapted for vegetarians. Just make sure the marinara sauce you choose doesn’t contain any meat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it?
Certainly! Although it’s recommended to enjoy this dish fresh you can prepare it ahead of time. Reheat it in the oven for a few minutes. This will help restore its cheesy bubbly deliciousness.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ziti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes drained or 2 diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese blend grated Parmesan, Romano, Asiago
- 1/2 cup Fontina cheese you can use grated Monterey Jack
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese grated
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook one pound of ziti according to the instructions, on the package. After cooking drain the ziti, rinse it with water and then mix it with two tablespoons of olive oil. Keep it aside for now.
- In a saucepan combine two cups of marinara sauce, one cup of heavy cream, fifteen ounces of diced tomatoes (drained) and one teaspoon of sugar. Let this mixture simmer for a while. Then add three-fourths cup of Parmesan cheese blend, half a cup of Fontina cheese and half a cup of mozzarella. Stir everything together until it becomes bubbly. Once done remove the saucepan from heat.
- Now take a dish and place the cooked ziti in it. Pour the cheesy sauce over the ziti evenly. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella and one fourth cup Parmesan cheese blend, on top. Lastly, add breadcrumbs for a crunch.
- Turn on your broiler. Let it cook until the top turns brown in color. Before serving your dish garnish it with some grated Parmesan cheese.
- Sit back. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
