Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, while ziti is traditional, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or any other short pasta. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds its shape when baked.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter. However, the texture may not be as rich and creamy.

How do I get the cheese topping perfectly golden brown?

Broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning. A light drizzle of olive oil over the breadcrumbs can also enhance browning.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

The Best Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe

Name: The Best Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 15 oz diced tomatoes, drained; 1 teaspoon sugar; ¾ cup Parmesan cheese blend (Parmesan, Romano, Asiago); ½ cup fontina cheese, grated (or Monterey Jack); 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, grated; ¼ cup breadcrumbs

Description

This Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish inspired by the classic Olive Garden favorite. Featuring a rich marinara sauce, a blend of five Italian cheeses, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this easy and satisfying meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup heavy cream
15 oz diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon sugar
¾ cup Parmesan cheese blend (Parmesan, Romano, Asiago)
½ cup fontina cheese, grated (or Monterey Jack)
1½ cups mozzarella cheese, grated
¼ cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Make the sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and sugar. Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle simmer. Add ½ cup of the Parmesan blend, ½ cup of fontina cheese, and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth, then remove from heat.
Assemble the dish: Transfer the cooked pasta to an oven-safe baking dish and pour the creamy marinara sauce over it. Stir slightly to coat all the pasta, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan blend evenly on top.
Add the breadcrumb topping: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer. For extra crispiness, lightly drizzle olive oil over the top before baking.
Broil until golden: Place the dish under the broiler for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

If preparing in advance, assemble the dish but do not bake. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours and bake when ready.
For a meaty version, add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken.
For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 398 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 591mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 59mg