Are you craving that comforting, cheesy goodness of Olive Garden's Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno? That warm, bubbling casserole, packed with layers of pasta, ricotta, and five glorious cheeses? Well, you're in luck! This recipe brings the magic of that iconic dish right to your kitchen. Forget takeout – get ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade five cheese ziti, a perfect quick dinner idea for the whole family. This easy recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Cheeses
This recipe focuses on replicating the creamy, rich flavor profile of the restaurant favorite. Adjust quantities based on your personal preference and the size of your baking dish.
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
- 2 ounces Romano cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (your favorite homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, for extra sharp flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Your Cheesy Masterpiece
Follow these simple steps to recreate this delicious dish at home. This recipe provides healthy meals without sacrificing flavor.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Don't overcook – you want it to hold its shape.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, Romano, eggs, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated. If using, add the Pecorino Romano here as well.
- Assemble the Ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti and cheese mixture. Top with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Bake to Perfection: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Ziti Experience
- For extra richness: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the cheese mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a little heat.
- Vegetarian option: Ensure your marinara sauce is vegetarian-friendly.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the ziti ahead of time and bake it when you're ready to eat. Just cover it and refrigerate until baking.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This homemade five-cheese ziti al forno is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Enjoy the delicious, easy, and healthy meal! It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe is among the best recipes for those seeking delicious dishes that are easy to prepare.