Craving a comforting, cheesy pasta bake that’s both quick to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno! This recipe brings together the rich flavors of five different cheeses, perfectly cooked ziti pasta, and a simple tomato sauce for a dish that’s ready to impress, even on the busiest weeknights. It’s everything you want in a hearty meal – satisfying, easy, and bursting with flavor. I know that my family is always excited when this is on the menu, and I’m sure yours will be too.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother, a woman of few words but incredible culinary skills, used to make a similar baked ziti every year for our family reunion. While this Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno isn’t exactly her recipe (I’ve given it a cheesier, faster twist!), the warmth and sense of family it evokes always brings me back to those happy gatherings. This is that same comfort and togetherness, just a little easier to achieve on a Tuesday night.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 ounces Asiago cheese, grated
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, Asiago cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked ziti to the sauce mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Let the **Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno** stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Best Results
For the most flavorful Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno, use high-quality cheeses. Freshly grated cheeses will melt better and have a richer flavor than pre-shredded options. If you don’t have all five cheeses on hand, feel free to substitute with your favorites. Fontina, Gruyere, or even a little bit of pepper jack can add a unique twist. Don’t overcook the pasta! Cooking it al dente ensures it holds its shape during baking and doesn’t become mushy. Adding a touch of nutmeg to the ricotta cheese mixture enhances the overall flavor profile. Finally, resist the urge to cut into it right away! Letting the ziti rest for a few minutes after baking allows the cheese to set up and makes serving much easier.
Serving Suggestions
Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is fantastically versatile, making it a perfect main course for a weekday dinner or a potluck gathering. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese. Garlic bread or breadsticks are also excellent accompaniments for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Wine pairings could include a light-bodied Italian red like Chianti or a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio. You could also offer a selection of toppings like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for guests to customize their servings. Don’t forget dessert! A simple fruit salad or some biscotti would round out the meal perfectly.
Conclusion
Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined to create something truly special. Its comforting flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of cheesy goodness and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly exceptional pasta bake.
Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, Asiago cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked ziti to the sauce mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Let the Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
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