Pasta Al Forno is made with marina and Alfredo sauce baked with fontina cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito
This Pasta Al Forno is a copycat version of the classic Olive Garden dish. I actually think this recipe is even better than the "real thing". Its easy to make, incredibly delicious and serves a crowd. Its a busy weekday dinner go to for me because even my two little boys who are super picky eaters love it.
This recipe is made with a blend of sauces, cheeses and a delicious breadcrumb and garlic topping. How could anyone resist? We've made this recipe for everything from family parties, holidays and casual dinners at home. It truly is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
Heres everything you'll need to make this delicious pasta. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.
- Mezzi Rigatoni Pasta- The perfect pasta to soak up and hold onto the sauce
- Tomato/Marinara Sauce- The hearty tomato base for the sauce.
- Alfredo Sauce- Adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor when combined with the marinara sauce.
- Fontina Cheese- Brings a slightly nutty and buttery taste
- Ricotta Cheese- Adds a rich creaminess to the pasta.
- Mozzarella Cheese- Adds a mild flavor that doesn't over power the other flavors.
- Panko Breadcrumbs- Brings just the right amount of crunch
- Parmesan Cheese- Adds a slightly salty flavor
- Garlic- Brings an earthy flavor to the topping
- Parsley- An optional garnish that adds a nice pop of color.
How To Make It
Heres how to make this incredible pasta. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements in the recipe card below.
Preheat the oven to 350°
First, in a large bowl, stir together the marinara, Alfredo, ricotta and fontina cheese. Stir in the pasta until its evenly combined and add it to a greased 9 x 13" baking dish. In a separate bowl, stir together the mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan and minced garlic. Evenly spread the mixture on top.
PRO TIP: Make sure to grate the mozzarella and parmesan cheese yourself and avoid the pre shredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt much better that way.
Finally, place it in the center rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are bubbly. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, garnish with parsley (optional) and enjoy!
PRO TIP: Let the pasta sit so it can cool and firm up. This way it will hold its shape when being served and won't completely fall apart.
What Can I Serve This With?
This pasta would go great served along side some Classic Italian Meatballs or Chicken Cutlets. And don't forget the Homemade Garlic Bread.
What Jarred Sauces Should I Use?
I loved jarred sauces for this because it keeps the process nice and easy. Feel free to use your own marinara and alfredo sauce recipes or pick up a jar of Raoes. They are the best choice for this recipe, in my opinion.
Storage
Let the pasta cool completely and place it into a food safe air tight container and it will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Pasta Al Forno Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Rigatoni Pasta, cooked to al dente in salted water
- 32 Oz Jar Marinara/ Tomato Sauce
- 15 Oz Alfredo Sauce
- ½ Cup Fontina Cheese, hand shredded
- ½ Cup Ricotta Cheese, hand shredded
- 1 ½ Cup Mozzarella Cheese, hand shredded
- ½ Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
- ½ Cup Parmesan Cheeese
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350
- In a large bowl, stir together the marinara, Alfredo, ricotta and fontina cheese. Stir in the pasta until its evenly combined and add it to a greased 9 x 13" baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan and minced garlic. Evenly spread the mixture on top.
- Place it in the center rack of the oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sides are bubbly. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, garnish with parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Video
Other Easy Baked Pasta Recipes
If you like super easy to make baked pasta recipes like this one, you have to try this Boursin Baked Macaroni & Cheese, Baked Monterey Chicken Spaghetti and Jalapeno Popper Mac & Cheese.
Jackie says
Does this freeze well?