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Creamy Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

Creamy Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Five Cheese Ziti Al Forno is a rich and heartwarming baked pasta dish featuring a luscious blend of five decadent cheeses combined with perfectly cooked ziti. Baked to bubbling, golden perfection, this dish offers gooey textures and savory flavors, making it an indulgent comfort food perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • Ziti Pasta – 12 oz

Cheeses

  • Ricotta Cheese – 1 cup
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (vegetal) – 2 cups, divided
  • Crumbled Feta Cheese – 1/2 cup
  • Shredded Asiago Cheese – 1/2 cup
  • Shredded Provolone Cheese – 1/2 cup

Aromatics & Sauce

  • Garlic Cloves, minced – 3 cloves
  • Diced Onion – 1 medium
  • Olive Oil – 2 tbsp
  • Apple Cider Vinegar – 1 tbsp
  • Fresh Basil or Dried Italian Herbs – 1 tsp dried or 1 tbsp fresh chopped
  • Salt – 1 tsp, adjust to taste
  • Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp, adjust to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta well and set it aside, keeping it slightly undercooked so it finishes baking in the oven without getting mushy.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3 to 5 minutes. This soft, flavorful base sets a savory tone for the sauce.
  3. Combine Cheeses and Sauce: In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta, crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella (vegetal), asiago, and provolone cheeses. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, then fold in the sautéed onions and garlic gently. This mixture should be creamy, seasoned, and ready to coat your pasta perfectly.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, mix the cooked ziti with the cheese sauce ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated. Spread it evenly in the dish and sprinkle a bit more shredded mozzarella (vegetal) on top for a golden cheesy crust once baked.
  5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly for easier serving.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture; it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Use freshly grated cheeses for best melting quality.
  • Season the cheese mixture well with salt and pepper before combining.
  • Let the baked ziti rest before serving to thicken the sauce and make serving neater.
  • Use a wide baking dish to ensure even baking and a crispy top layer.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: creamy baked pasta, five cheese ziti, cheesy ziti al forno, comfort food pasta, cheesy baked ziti

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/creamy-five-cheese-ziti-al-forno/