Olive Garden Five Cheese Marinara
Olive Garden’s Five Cheese Marinara is a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that combines a rich marinara sauce with five different cheeses. This indulgent sauce is the perfect complement to your favorite pasta, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re recreating the classic dish at home or simply craving a cheesy, comforting dinner, this recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover.
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan – For cooking the marinara sauce and melting the cheese.
- 1 mixing bowl – For combining the cheeses.
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce.
- 1 measuring cup – For measuring the cheese.
- 1 knife – For chopping garlic (optional).
- 1 grater – For grating the cheeses (if not pre-shredded).
Ingredients
- 24 oz marinara sauce 1 jar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Pasta of your choice spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine
Instructions
Heat the Marinara Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Add the Marinara Sauce
- Pour the 24 oz marinara sauce into the saucepan and stir to combine with the garlic. Season with 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
Prepare the Cheese Blend
- In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1/2 cup grated Romano, and 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese. Stir until well combined.
Combine the Sauce and Cheese
- Once the marinara sauce is simmered, add the cheese blend to the saucepan. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Simmer and Adjust Consistency
- Let the sauce simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to thin it out.
Serve
- Pour the cheesy marinara sauce over your cooked pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy with your favorite sides like garlic bread or a Caesar salad!
Notes
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like adding Gruyère or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the marinara sauce and cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Freezing: This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the sauce cool, then store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes or even a bit of cayenne pepper if you enjoy heat.
- Pasta Choices: The Five Cheese Marinara pairs well with any type of pasta. Consider using fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni for a heartier meal.