The Olive Garden Baked Ziti is a comforting and indulgent dish that has captured the hearts of many who visit the renowned Italian-American restaurant. This baked pasta dish combines a luscious blend of cheeses, flavorful Italian sausage, and tender ziti pasta, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table, embodying the essence of comfort food. While the original Olive Garden recipe is a closely guarded secret, this copycat version allows you to recreate the delightful flavors at home with ease. The combination of ingredients delivers a harmonious blend of creaminess, spice, and savory notes, making it a perfect choice for family meals, casual gatherings, or even a cozy dinner for two. So, if you’re craving the taste of Olive Garden’s Baked Ziti without leaving your home, this recipe is your ticket to a delectable dining experience.
Ingredients about Olive Garden Baked Ziti
List of Ingredients with Measurements
To make this delicious Olive Garden Baked Ziti at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 28 ounces marinara sauce
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Asiago cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Romano cheese, shredded
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 3 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup small curd cottage cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 16 ounces whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
While sticking to the original recipe ensures the closest taste to Olive Garden’s, you can make a few substitutions:
- Ground beef or turkey can replace Italian sausage for a milder flavor.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used instead of traditional ziti.
- Ricotta cheese can substitute for cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
How to Make Olive Garden Baked Ziti
Step 1: Preparing the Base
Preheat your oven to 450°F. In a very large non-stick, oven-safe skillet, add the Italian sausage and cook over medium heat. Use a large wooden spoon to break the meat into small, bite-sized pieces. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pan, draining any excess fat. Set the cooked sausage aside for later.
Step 2: Building the Sauce
In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan, sautéing for about a minute until the garlic is fragrant. Next, pour in the marinara sauce and stir in ¼ cup each of Parmesan, Asiago, and Romano cheeses. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a rich sauce base.
Step 3: Cooking the Pasta
Add the ziti pasta, along with 3 cups of water, to the skillet. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, then cover the skillet with a lid. Cook over medium to medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes. You’ll want the pasta to be almost tender since it will continue to cook in the oven. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Combining & Baking
With the pasta nearly tender, stir in the cooked Italian sausage, heavy cream, and cottage cheese into the skillet. If you have an oven-safe skillet, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. If not, transfer half of the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with half of the cheese, then add the remaining pasta and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and lightly golden brown. Once done, let the skillet baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Olive Garden Baked Ziti
Best Ways to Serve Olive Garden Baked Ziti
Serving Olive Garden Baked Ziti straight from the oven is ideal, as it allows the cheese to be warm and gooey while the pasta and sausage are perfectly seasoned. Slice portions directly from the skillet or baking dish, and use a spatula to transfer them onto plates.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair this rich and indulgent pasta dish with a fresh, crisp side salad – a Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette works beautifully. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside buttery garlic bread or Italian-style breadsticks. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, will elevate your dining experience, harmonizing beautifully with the ziti’s flavors.
How to Store Olive Garden Baked Ziti
Proper Storage Methods
If you have leftovers, allow the baked ziti to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to three days.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
To reheat, place leftovers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually around 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, individual portions can be microwaved on medium power until hot. For freezing, portion the ziti into airtight, freezer-safe containers before placing them in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Olive Garden Baked Ziti
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta on the stovetop; remember it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, draining too much fat from the sausage can result in a less flavorful dish, as the fat contributes to the overall taste.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
Consider using freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture, rather than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents. Adjust the level of spices to your preference, adding more red pepper flakes for extra heat or skipping them altogether for a milder dish.
Variation of Olive Garden Baked Ziti
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
For a smoky twist, add roasted red peppers or smoked paprika to the marinara sauce. A layer of pesto can offer a fresh herbal note, while sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy element to the profile.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
To cater to dietary restrictions, swap the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables for a vegetarian version. For a lighter dish, use low-fat cheese and opt for a lighter cream or half-and-half.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If your ziti is too dry, add a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture. Conversely, if it’s too watery, bake it uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
Substituting ingredients is straightforward. Use Italian chicken sausage as a healthier option, or choose a spicy version for extra heat. If you’re out of cottage cheese, ricotta is a perfect alternative. Additionally, whisking together milk and melted butter can stand in for heavy cream in a pinch.
