Print

Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno

Five-Cheese Ziti al Forno - featured image
Print Recipe

This easy homemade pasta bake features ziti tossed in marinara and a creamy blend of five cheeses, baked until bubbly with a gooey, golden crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz ziti pasta
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded or chopped provolone cheese
  • 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Position rack in center.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
  3. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, heavy cream, 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup provolone, 1/2 cup fontina, 1/4 cup parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add 1–2 tbsp reserved pasta water for creaminess if needed.
  4. Add drained ziti to the cheese mixture. Pour in 3 cups marinara sauce and toss until coated. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Spread half the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup provolone, 1/4 cup fontina, and 1/4 cup parmesan.
  6. Repeat with remaining pasta and top with another 1/2 cup mozzarella and remaining cheeses (about 1/4 cup each).
  7. Spoon remaining 1 cup marinara over the top and swirl gently. Sprinkle a final layer of parmesan and extra mozzarella.
  8. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until top is bubbly and golden-brown. For a crispier crust, broil on high for 1–2 minutes.
  10. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley.
  11. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, shred your own cheese for smoother melting. Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; it will finish in the oven. Layering cheese between pasta creates a gooey center. If making ahead, assemble and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours, adding 10 minutes to the covered bake time. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check your marinara label. Let the dish rest before serving for neater slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: ziti al forno, five cheese pasta bake, Italian casserole, comfort food, vegetarian pasta, cheesy baked ziti, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://katedishes.com/five-cheese-ziti-al-forno-recipe-easy-homemade-pasta-bake-with-gooey-crust/