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Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

A rich and comforting pasta bake featuring five different cheeses with ziti pasta in a simple tomato sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce:
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 jar marinara sauce 24-ounce
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 15-ounce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.25 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
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh basil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Large Pot
  • Large bowls
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
  4. 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.
  5. Add the cooked ziti to the sauce mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  6. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
  8. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
  9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  10. 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.
  11. Let the Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use high-quality, freshly grated cheeses for best melting and flavor. Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness. Let ziti rest 10 minutes before serving for easier cutting. Serve with green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.