Olive Garden Baked Ziti Recipe [Ziti Al Forno]

If you’re a fan of hearty, cheesy pasta dishes that bring comfort and joy with every bite, then Olive Garden’s baked ziti recipe is a must-try. This delicious dish combines the best of both worlds with rich marinara sauce and creamy Alfredo, melded together with a delightful blend of five cheeses.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests, this baked ziti brings the flavors of your favorite Italian restaurant straight to your kitchen. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouth-watering meal yourself.

Ingredients For Olive Garden Baked Ziti Recipe

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Fresh and flavorful components are the foundation of any great dish. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate Olive Garden’s baked ziti at home:

1. Pasta: 1 pound of ziti pasta, cooked just shy of al dente.
2. Sauces:
   • 4 cups of marinara sauce: This gives the dish its classic tomato base.
   • 2 cups of Alfredo sauce: Adding creaminess and depth to the flavor.
3. Cheeses:
   • 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, rich texture.
   • 1/2 cup of shredded Fontina cheese: For a mild, nutty flavor.
   • 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty finish.
   • 1/4 cup of grated Romano cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy note.
   • 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: For a robust, savory flavor.
4. Topping:
   • 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs: Ensures a crispy, crunchy top.
   • 2 cloves of minced garlic: Infuses the topping with aromatic goodness.

Required Equipment

Having the right equipment on hand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious baked ziti:

1. Large Pot: For boiling the ziti pasta.
2. Large Mixing Bowl: To combine all the ingredients seamlessly.
3. Large Oven-Safe Skillet or 9×13 Baking Dish: Perfect for baking the ziti.
4. Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese makes a big difference in flavor.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the pasta and sauces.
6. Preheated Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) to bake your dish to perfection.

Required Time

Knowing the time commitment for a recipe helps in planning your meal prep better. For Olive Garden baked ziti, you’ll need about 45 minutes in total:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes for assembling ingredients and pre-cooking the pasta.
• Cook Time: 30 minutes to bake until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Total Time: 45 minutes from start to finish.

Step By Step Instructions For Olive Garden Baked Ziti Recipe

Creating Olive Garden’s baked ziti at home is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfect outcome:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ziti Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions, but drain it one minute shy of the recommended cooking time to prevent overcooking.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, and shredded Fontina cheese. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta mixture into a large oven-safe skillet or a 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, grated Romano cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pasta.

6. Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The topping should be golden brown and the dish should be bubbly.

7. Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

Tips For Olive Garden Baked Ziti Recipe

To elevate your baked ziti and make it even more delightful, consider these helpful tips:

1. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Asiago or Provolone to add unique flavors to your dish.
2. Add Meat: Incorporate cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even shrimp to add more protein and enhance the dish’s flavor.
3. Prevent Dryness: To keep your pasta from drying out, make sure not to overbake and consider adding a bit more sauce if the mixture looks too dry before baking.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This can enhance the flavors and save you time on the day you plan to serve it. Simply bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.

Get details about more mouthwatering dishes

Olive Garden Minestrone Soup Recipe
Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Recipe
Olive Garden Pasta Recipe
Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe

Serving Tips For Olive Garden Baked Ziti Recipe

Presenting your baked ziti in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving tips:

1. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
2. Side Dishes: Complement your baked ziti with a crisp Caesar salad and warm garlic bread for a complete Italian meal that everyone will love.
3. Family Style: Serve the ziti directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dining experience that encourages sharing and conversation.
4. Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of this dish, enhancing the overall meal.

Nutrition in Olive Garden Baked Ziti Recipe

Understanding the nutritional content of your meal is important, especially if you’re watching your intake of certain nutrients. Here’s what you get in a serving of Olive Garden baked ziti:

• Calories: 534 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 23g (with 12g of saturated fat)
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 1431mg
• Potassium: 581mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Vitamin A: 900 IU
• Vitamin C: 8.8mg
• Calcium: 325mg
• Iron: 2.4mg

Conclusion

The Olive Garden baked ziti recipe is a delicious blend of rich sauces and cheeses, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe brings the beloved flavors of Olive Garden right to your table.

With its straightforward preparation and mouth-watering taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness with family and friends, and savor every delicious bite.

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