Go Back
Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

A comforting and delicious pasta bake featuring a symphony of five cheeses, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
Cheese Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces provolone cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces Parmesan cheese grated
  • 4 ounces Asiago cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large Saucepan
  • Large Bowl
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the tomato sauce. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
  5. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and Asiago cheeses. Mix well.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss to coat.
  7. Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Top with the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and Asiago cheeses.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden brown.
  10. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil (if using).

Notes

Red pepper flakes and fresh basil are optional garnishes.