Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Ziti Recipe – A Cheesy Dream Come True!

If you’re a fan of rich, cheesy, and comforting pasta dishes, then this Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Inspired by the famous restaurant dish, this homemade version delivers the same creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors—without the need for a reservation.

This baked ziti is smothered in a luxuriously creamy five-cheese marinara sauce, then topped with a crispy, golden layer of cheese and breadcrumbs.

The result? A restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, craving a cozy meal, or looking for the ultimate comfort food, this dish has got you covered.

Get ready to recreate Olive Garden’s magic in your own kitchen with simple ingredients and easy steps.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Cheese Lover’s Dream

This dish isn’t called “Five Cheese Ziti” for nothing!

It’s packed with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and Romano cheeses, creating an ultra-creamy, melty, and flavorful experience in every bite.

2. Better Than Takeout

Why go to a restaurant when you can make a homemade version that’s just as delicious—if not better?

Plus, you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste, making it fresher and even more satisfying.

3. Easy and Family-Friendly

This recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together with minimal effort.

Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you’ll find it easy to prepare.

It’s also a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

Leftovers? No problem!

This baked ziti stores and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy a quick, delicious meal any day of the week.

5. Pairs Well with Everything

Whether served with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a glass of wine, this baked ziti makes for a complete, satisfying meal.

It’s comfort food at its finest!

Health Benefits of Five Cheese Ziti

While indulgent and comforting, this dish offers some surprising benefits when enjoyed in moderation:

1. Rich in Protein
With multiple types of cheese and optional meat additions, this dish provides a good amount of protein, which supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.

2. Calcium Boost
The generous cheese blend delivers a high dose of calcium—essential for strong bones and teeth.

3. Energy-Packed Carbs
Ziti pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are your body’s primary source of energy.

4. Lycopene from Marinara
Tomatoes in the marinara sauce are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.

5. Mood-Lifting Comfort
Beyond physical health, this cozy, home-cooked meal can lift your spirits, reduce stress, and bring people together—great for emotional wellness.

Ingredients for Homemade Five Cheese Ziti

To make this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent Olive Garden-inspired baked ziti, you’ll need a few simple ingredients.

Here’s everything required to bring this dish to life.

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound ziti pasta – The perfect shape to hold all the cheesy goodness.

For the Five Cheese Marinara Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce – Use store-bought or homemade for the best flavor.
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce – Adds a rich, creamy texture to the dish.
• ½ cup ricotta cheese – Brings a velvety smoothness to the sauce.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that classic, melty cheese pull.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances the sauce with a salty, nutty depth.

For the Cheesy Topping:

• ½ cup Italian blend cheese (mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, Romano) – A melty, golden layer on top.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs – Adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps crisp up the breadcrumb topping.

Optional Additions:

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• Cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken for extra protein

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).

Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Five Cheese Marinara Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the marinara sauce and Alfredo sauce.

Stir well to blend the flavors.

Next, add the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.

Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 3: Toss the Pasta with the Sauce

Add the cooked ziti to the saucepan and toss until every piece is coated in the rich, cheesy sauce.

If the mixture looks too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water or a bit more marinara sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour in the pasta mixture, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the Italian blend cheese, breadcrumbs, and olive oil.

Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Let It Rest & Serve

Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This Olive Garden Five Cheese Ziti is already packed with flavor, but pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level.

Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy, cheesy pasta:

1. Classic Garlic Bread

A side of crispy, buttery garlic bread is a must! It’s perfect for scooping up all that extra five-cheese marinara sauce.

2. Fresh Garden Salad

Balance out the richness of the pasta with a light and refreshing salad.

A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic dressing works beautifully.

3. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables

Add some color and nutrition to your plate with roasted zucchini, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach.

The freshness pairs well with the creamy ziti.

4. A Glass of Wine

If you’re looking to elevate your meal, pair your baked ziti with a glass of Chianti, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Pinot Noir.

The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese.

5. Italian-Inspired Appetizers

Start your meal with bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, or mozzarella sticks to create a full Olive Garden-style dining experience at home!

Recipe Variation

Want to put your own spin on this cheesy classic?

Here are a few fun and delicious ways to customize your Five Cheese Ziti:

1. Protein-Packed:
Add cooked crumbled Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or even ground beef to the sauce for a heartier version.

2. Veggie Delight:
Go meatless and amp up the veggies! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers add both flavor and nutrition.

3. Spicy Kick:
Love a little heat? Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinara for a spicy twist.

4. Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute the ziti with your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a meal everyone can enjoy.

5. Cheese Swap:
Try mixing in gouda, fontina, or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor profile. There’s no wrong way to cheese it up!

6. Single Servings:
Bake the pasta in ramekins or small oven-safe dishes for individual portions—perfect for dinner parties or meal prep.

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about this dish? It tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day.

To Store:
Let the ziti cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To Reheat:

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover the pasta with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

To Freeze:
You can also freeze it! Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container but don’t bake it yet.

Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding 10–15 extra minutes.

Tips for the Best Five Cheese Ziti

Want to make sure your Five Cheese Ziti turns out perfect every time? Keep these tips in mind:

1. Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Since the pasta continues to cook in the oven, boiling it just until al dente helps prevent it from turning mushy.

2. Use High-Quality Cheese

The better the cheese, the better the flavor!

Try to use freshly shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone instead of pre-shredded varieties for a creamier, meltier texture.

3. Don’t Skip the Alfredo Sauce

The secret to that luxuriously creamy sauce is the Alfredo.

It blends beautifully with the marinara, creating a rich and balanced flavor.

4. Customize the Dish

Want to add protein? Mix in grilled chicken, crumbled Italian sausage, or even shrimp.

For a vegetarian twist, toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.

5. Let It Rest Before Serving

Once baked, allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving.

This helps the cheese set, making it easier to scoop out perfect portions.

6. Make It Ahead of Time

You can assemble the ziti ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Just increase the baking time by 10 minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

7. Store & Reheat Like a Pro

Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Conclusion

Now you can enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and comforting goodness of Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Ziti right in your own kitchen!

This easy-to-make baked pasta is packed with flavor, rich in texture, and perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

With a perfect blend of five cheeses, a luscious marinara-Alfredo sauce, and a golden, crispy topping, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste without the price tag.

Whether you’re serving it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or your favorite Italian appetizers, this baked ziti is guaranteed to be a hit.

Plus, with the helpful tips and serving suggestions provided, you can customize it to fit your preferences and make it even more delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turns out!

Leave a comment, share your experience, and don’t forget to check out our other easy and delicious pasta recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?

Absolutely! While ziti works best for this dish, you can substitute it with penne, rigatoni, or even rotini.

Just make sure to cook it al dente before baking.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian as written.

Just be sure to use vegetarian-friendly cheese, as some Parmesan and Romano cheeses contain animal rennet.

3. How do I make the dish spicier?

If you love a little heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or mixing in some spicy Italian sausage before baking.

A drizzle of hot honey after baking can also add a delicious twist!

4. Can I freeze Five Cheese Ziti for later?

Yes! To freeze, assemble the dish in an airtight, freezer-safe container before baking.

When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 40-45 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.

5. What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

If your sauce feels too thick, simply add a splash of reserved pasta water, extra marinara, or a little milk to loosen it up.

Stir well before baking for a perfectly creamy consistency.