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Contents

My Experience With This Recipe

Recipe Card Info

Equipment List

Ingredients You Need for Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno

Instructions

Recipe Tips

Nutrition Information

Serving Suggestions

Best Sides To Serve With

Storage and Reheating Tips

FAQs about Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno

Conclusion

If you love cheesy pasta dishes, this Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno Recipe is perfect. It is rich, creamy and full of flavor.

Tender ziti pasta is layered with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe tastes just like the famous Olive Garden version.

You can make it for family dinners, special occasions or cozy weeknight meals. I will guide you step by step on how to make Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno, so even beginners can follow easily.

With easy ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this cheesy, comforting pasta at home.

My Experience With This Recipe

I tried this Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno Recipe for a family dinner, and it was a hit. The pasta stayed tender and the cheese melted perfectly.

Layering the sauce and cheese made each bite creamy and delicious. My family loved the flavors, and everyone asked for seconds.

I also sprinkled extra Parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly crust. This dish is comforting, filling and easy to make. Now it is a favorite for our weeknight dinners and holiday meals.

Recipe Card Info

Recipe Name: Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Course: Main Course / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Equipment List

Large pot for boiling pasta
Strainer
Large mixing bowl
9×13 inch baking dish
Spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater for cheese
Oven mitts

Ingredients You Need for Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno

1 lb ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
Cook the Ziti Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add Italian Seasoning
Stir in Italian seasoning to the cheese mixture. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta and 1 cup marinara sauce to the cheese mixture. Stir until pasta is evenly coated.
Layer in Baking Dish
Pour half of the pasta mixture into the greased dish. Spread evenly with a spatula.
Add Remaining Sauce
Pour remaining marinara sauce over the pasta layer. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top.
Bake the Ziti
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes.
Check the Cheese
Cheese should be melted and bubbly, with a golden top. Let it cool 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh basil on top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful pasta.

Recipe Tips

Use fresh mozzarella for extra creamy texture.
Do not overcook pasta; it should be firm before baking.
Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes to set layers.
Add cooked sausage or ground beef for a meatier version.
Top with extra Parmesan or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	20 g
Carbohydrates	50 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	6 g

Serving Suggestions

This Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno is best served hot. Pair it with a simple Caesar salad or garlic bread. Add a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal.

You can also serve with roasted vegetables or a side of soup. The cheesy pasta works well for family dinners or gatherings.

Best Sides To Serve With

Garlic bread or breadsticks
Caesar salad or garden salad
Roasted broccoli or green beans
Tomato basil soup
Simple bruschetta

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Use freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Microwave individual servings or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. Cover to prevent drying.

FAQs about Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free ziti works well. Follow package instructions for cooking time.

3. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken can be added. Layer with pasta and sauce.

4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, any good-quality marinara sauce works. Homemade sauce also tastes amazing.

5. How can I make it extra cheesy?
Add extra mozzarella on top before baking. Mix in Parmesan and ricotta for creamier texture.

Conclusion

The Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno Recipe is a cheesy, comforting Italian pasta dish everyone will love. Tender ziti, rich cheese and flavorful marinara make each bite delightful.

Following this guide, you now know how to make Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno at home easily. Serve it with garlic bread or salad for a full meal.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings or cozy meals at home. Try it today and enjoy the classic Olive Garden flavors in your kitchen!