There's nothing quite like the rich, cheesy goodness of Olive Garden's Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno to transport you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen. Creamy, saucy, and baked to perfection with a golden crust, this dish is comfort food at its finest.

I first discovered this recipe after a particularly chilly day, craving the warmth of baked pasta paired with the irresistible blend of cheeses. It's since become a favorite in our house, making weeknights special with its decadent flavors. Let’s dive into why this dish is about to become your new obsession!

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

Get ready to recreate one of Olive Garden's most iconic dishes right at home! This Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno combines all the best aspects of a cheesy pasta bake with the restaurant-style flair we all adore.

First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for weeknight dinners. With minimal prep and a quick bake, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour.

Not to mention, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of marinara, Alfredo sauce, and five cheeses creates a creamy, savory base that tastes just like the original – if not better!

It’s also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a dinner party, everyone will come back for seconds.

Finally, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or lunch the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this restaurant-quality ziti at home:

Ziti Pasta: The star of the dish! Its tubular shape holds onto the creamy sauces perfectly, but penne can also work in a pinch.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought marinara or make your own. A rich, tomato-forward sauce is key to balancing the creamy cheeses.
Alfredo Sauce: For the creamy element, a jarred Alfredo works well, though a homemade version will add a personal touch.
The Five Cheeses: This is where the magic happens! The blend includes mozzarella, provolone, ricotta, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses. Together, they create a gooey, cheesy masterpiece.
Seasonings: A sprinkle of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes enhances the flavor profile.

Equipment:

A large baking dish and mixing bowls are must-haves for assembling and baking the ziti. Don’t forget your cheese grater for freshly shredded Parmesan and Romano!

How to Make Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Creating this dish is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a foolproof pasta bake that’s just as good as the real deal.

Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your ziti pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the provolone. Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning and mix until smooth.
Combine the Sauces
In another bowl, mix equal parts of marinara and Alfredo sauce. This combination creates the signature creamy tomato flavor Olive Garden is known for.
Assemble the Ziti
In a greased baking dish, layer the pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of sauce on top.
Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and Romano over the top. These cheeses will create that irresistible golden crust.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Storage Options

This Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is perfect for leftovers! Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Transfer to an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating:

To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until warm. For larger portions, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with these ideas:

Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even shrimp for a heartier dish.
Make It Veggie-Friendly: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a burst of fresh flavor.
Swap the Pasta: Try penne, rigatoni, or even shells for a fun twist.
Lighter Option: Use whole wheat pasta and a low-fat ricotta to lighten things up.
Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper or top with sliced jalapeños for some heat.

Experiment with these variations to make the dish your own!

With its melty, cheesy layers and rich, creamy sauces, this Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're recreating a restaurant favorite or simply looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy a taste of Italy from the comfort of your own kitchen!