Olive Garden has become a beloved go-to for hearty, comforting Italian-American dishes, and their ziti pasta is no exception.
Whether it’s paired with marinara, creamy Alfredo, or packed with veggies, Olive Garden ziti recipes are a surefire way to please a crowd.
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate these iconic dishes at home, you’re in the right place.
In this blog post, we’ve gathered over 15 fantastic Olive Garden-inspired ziti recipes that you can make in your own kitchen.
From classic combinations to creative twists, these recipes will bring the taste of Olive Garden straight to your dinner table, making it easy to enjoy comforting, flavorful meals whenever you crave them.
15+ Delactable Olive Garden Ziti Recipes for Homemade Feast
With these 15+ Olive Garden ziti recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for creating delicious and comforting pasta dishes at home.
Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and creamy Alfredo, a hearty meatball ziti, or a lighter, vegetable-packed bake, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
These recipes will help you recreate the magic of Olive Garden, right in your own kitchen, so you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of classic Italian-American dishes anytime.
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to pair your ziti creations with some delicious breadsticks for the ultimate Olive Garden-inspired meal!
Classic Olive Garden Ziti Al Forno
This Classic Ziti Al Forno recipe brings the comfort of Olive Garden to your kitchen. With a rich blend of marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and a perfect layer of melted mozzarella and parmesan, this baked ziti is both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, this dish is as comforting as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the pasta mixture on top of the sauce, spreading evenly.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the pasta, then sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
This Classic Ziti Al Forno is the ultimate comfort food, combining pasta, cheese, and sauce into a delicious baked dish that is perfect for any occasion. The layers of mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, golden top while the ricotta adds creaminess and richness. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to please everyone.
Olive Garden’s Baked Ziti with Sausage
For a heartier take on the classic, this Olive Garden-inspired Baked Ziti with Sausage combines the delicious flavors of seasoned Italian sausage with the creamy texture of ricotta and the savory taste of marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for those who crave a meat-filled pasta bake that’s both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 lb ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the ricotta mixture and toss to coat. Fold in the sausage and marinara sauce.
- Pour the pasta and sausage mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
This Baked Ziti with Sausage offers a wonderful twist on the classic, infusing each bite with the savory flavor of Italian sausage. The creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella blend perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce, creating a meal that’s filling and comforting. Whether you’re a fan of sausage or simply love a heartier dish, this baked ziti is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Olive Garden’s Veggie Ziti Primavera
This Veggie Ziti Primavera is a light and fresh take on the traditional Olive Garden baked ziti, loaded with vibrant seasonal vegetables and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meal, this dish is as delicious as it is colorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and toss to coat. Then fold in the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour the pasta and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Veggie Ziti Primavera is a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional baked ziti. The combination of fresh, sautéed vegetables with creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce creates a vibrant and flavorful dish. It’s a perfect meal for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, plant-based version of this Italian favorite, and it’s just as comforting as its meaty counterparts.
Olive Garden Ziti with Pesto and Chicken
Elevate your ziti game with a rich and aromatic twist using homemade pesto and succulent chicken. This Olive Garden-inspired Ziti with Pesto and Chicken offers a flavorful combination of tender chicken, ziti pasta, and a basil pesto sauce that adds a fresh, herby depth. This dish is a perfect choice for those who love a fusion of creamy and zesty Italian flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 1 jar (8 oz) basil pesto sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the pesto sauce and heavy cream over low heat. Stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, sliced chicken, and pesto-cream mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add half of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan to the bowl, then toss again.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Ziti with Pesto and Chicken brings a light and fresh twist to traditional baked pasta dishes. The fragrant basil pesto mixed with creamy sauce and tender chicken creates a rich, satisfying flavor. It’s perfect for a weekend dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a dish that’s both comforting and a little more unique than your usual ziti.
Spicy Olive Garden Ziti with Ground Beef and Jalapeños
For those who love a little heat, this Spicy Ziti with Ground Beef and Jalapeños takes your classic baked ziti to the next level with bold flavors and a kick of spice. Ground beef, jalapeños, and a spicy marinara sauce meld together to create a ziti dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) spicy marinara sauce
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the spicy marinara sauce, jalapeños, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss to coat. Then fold in the beef and sauce mixture.
- Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This Spicy Ziti with Ground Beef and Jalapeños is a perfect dish for spice lovers. The combination of ground beef, spicy marinara, and the warmth of jalapeños creates a fiery yet comforting pasta dish that’s sure to please anyone who enjoys a little heat in their meals. The cheesy, creamy interior balances the heat, making this a unique twist on the classic Olive Garden ziti.
Olive Garden Ziti with Garlic Butter Shrimp
A luxurious seafood twist on the classic ziti, this Olive Garden-inspired Ziti with Garlic Butter Shrimp combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce that pairs beautifully with ziti pasta. This dish is a perfect blend of seafood and Italian flavors, creating a creamy, indulgent meal that’s sure to satisfy seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and fully cooked. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese to the skillet. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Add the cooked ziti to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy garlic butter sauce. Fold in the cooked shrimp.
- Transfer the pasta and shrimp mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This Ziti with Garlic Butter Shrimp offers a delightful combination of creamy, rich flavors and succulent seafood. The garlic butter sauce provides a luscious coating for the shrimp and pasta, while the mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, cheesy finish. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner when you want to indulge in something delicious and sophisticated.
Olive Garden Ziti with Roasted Vegetables and Ricotta
This Ziti with Roasted Vegetables and Ricotta is a wholesome, colorful dish that’s packed with roasted seasonal vegetables and creamy ricotta. It’s a healthier yet still indulgent alternative to classic ziti, making it a great choice for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter, vegetable-filled pasta bake. The roasted vegetables add a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the ricotta and marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a large baking sheet, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in an even layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
- While the vegetables roast, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then mix well.
- Once the vegetables are roasted, mix them with the cooked ziti pasta in the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Stir to combine, then pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Ziti with Roasted Vegetables and Ricotta is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor. The roasted vegetables add a sweet, smoky element to the dish, which pairs perfectly with the creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce. It’s a satisfying and vibrant meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.
Olive Garden Ziti with Bacon and Alfredo Sauce
This Ziti with Bacon and Alfredo Sauce offers a rich and indulgent take on classic ziti, combining the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with crispy bacon for a flavor-packed twist. The combination of bacon and creamy sauce adds a savory depth to the dish, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious flavors, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the cream to thicken slightly.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. Fold in the crispy bacon.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This Ziti with Bacon and Alfredo Sauce is rich, creamy, and irresistibly delicious. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that balances perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce and mozzarella. It’s an easy-to-make yet indulgent dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.
Olive Garden Ziti with Meatballs
This hearty Ziti with Meatballs takes inspiration from Olive Garden’s famous pasta dishes, offering a comforting blend of ziti pasta, savory meatballs, and marinara sauce. It’s a classic combination that’s perfect for those craving a satisfying, traditional Italian meal. With its deliciously tender meatballs and flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the marinara sauce and meatballs, tossing gently to coat.
- Transfer the pasta and meatball mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Ziti with Meatballs is a timeless comfort food that combines rich marinara sauce, tender meatballs, and gooey cheese for a meal that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. The ziti pasta soaks up the flavorful sauce, while the meatballs provide a hearty, savory bite in every spoonful. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish is an Italian classic you can’t go wrong with.
Olive Garden Ziti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese
This Ziti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese brings a gourmet twist to the classic Olive Garden ziti, offering a blend of tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creamy goat cheese, and aromatic herbs. It’s a rich yet light dish that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated pasta bake with bold, flavorful ingredients. The goat cheese adds creaminess while the sun-dried tomatoes contribute a sweet, slightly tangy depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, marinara sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta with the marinara sauce mixture. Add crumbled goat cheese and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Ziti with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Goat Cheese offers a rich and tangy flavor profile that’s sure to please anyone who enjoys a little sophistication in their pasta. The creamy goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the sun-dried tomatoes, creating a savory and slightly sweet balance. It’s a delightful change from the usual ziti, perfect for a special dinner or for impressing guests with a unique Italian-inspired dish.
Olive Garden Ziti with Meatballs and Pesto
If you’re craving a blend of classic meatball goodness with the fresh, herby flavors of pesto, this Ziti with Meatballs and Pesto is the perfect dish. Combining rich, tender meatballs with a homemade or store-bought pesto sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and creates a beautiful balance between savory, herby, and cheesy elements. It’s a comforting meal with an extra burst of freshness from the pesto.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Roll into 1-inch meatballs.
- Bake the meatballs on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked through.
- In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce and pesto sauce together, stirring to combine.
- Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and let them simmer for 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked ziti pasta with the pesto-marina sauce mixture and meatballs.
- Transfer the pasta and meatballs into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Ziti with Meatballs and Pesto is a mouthwatering fusion of rich Italian flavors. The tender, savory meatballs pair perfectly with the herby pesto and marinara sauce, creating a balanced dish that’s comforting and fresh. The melted mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy finish, making this dish a real crowd-pleaser. It’s ideal for family meals, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a flavorful pasta bake.
Olive Garden Ziti with Mushrooms and Spinach
For a lighter yet delicious alternative, this Ziti with Mushrooms and Spinach is a fantastic option that still delivers a satisfying meal. The earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms, combined with fresh spinach and a creamy sauce, make this dish both hearty and nutritious. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a comforting baked ziti with a healthy twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and spinach. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan, and mix well.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Ziti with Mushrooms and Spinach is a perfect choice for those seeking a lighter pasta bake without sacrificing flavor. The combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is full of nutritious ingredients. This dish is great for vegetarians or anyone looking for a more health-conscious option while still enjoying the comfort of baked ziti.
Olive Garden Ziti with Sausage and Peppers
Ziti with Sausage and Peppers brings together savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and ziti pasta in a deliciously hearty dish that’s packed with flavor. This recipe offers a wonderful balance of spicy Italian sausage and the natural sweetness of sautéed bell peppers, all coated in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. It’s a perfect meal for anyone craving a filling, flavorful pasta bake.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart into small crumbles as it browns. Once cooked through, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked ziti pasta with the sausage and pepper sauce mixture.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This Ziti with Sausage and Peppers is a rich, hearty dish that’s bursting with bold flavors. The combination of savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and the comforting pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The melted mozzarella on top gives it a deliciously cheesy finish, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Olive Garden Ziti with Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Ziti with Spinach Artichoke Dip combines the creamy goodness of a classic spinach artichoke dip with the hearty comfort of baked ziti. The result is a decadent, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for a party or a cozy dinner. The spinach and artichoke add a refreshing flavor to the otherwise rich and cheesy dish, giving it a lightness while still being indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 jar (14 oz) spinach artichoke dip (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the spinach artichoke dip, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the cooked ziti pasta and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Ziti with Spinach Artichoke Dip takes the best elements of a beloved appetizer and turns it into a comforting, hearty pasta dish. The creamy, cheesy sauce made with spinach and artichoke creates a velvety texture that clings to the ziti, making each bite indulgent. This dish is perfect for a party, potluck, or family dinner where you want something both familiar and a little extra special.
Olive Garden Ziti with Bacon and Caramelized Onions
This Ziti with Bacon and Caramelized Onions is a savory and slightly sweet pasta dish that combines crispy bacon, deeply caramelized onions, and ziti pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. The slow-cooked onions bring a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the salty bacon, while the creamy cheese sauce adds indulgence. It’s a wonderful dish for those who enjoy layers of flavor and a touch of elegance in their comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving a little bacon fat in the pan.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Add the heavy cream to the onions and bring to a simmer. Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, caramelized onion sauce, and crispy bacon. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Ziti with Bacon and Caramelized Onions is a unique, flavorful twist on the classic baked pasta. The rich cream sauce, infused with sweet caramelized onions and smoky bacon, elevates the dish, making it a standout on any table. The melted mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy finish, while the crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch. It’s a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to impress guests with a special meal.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!