What Is Five Cheese Ziti al Forno?

Five Cheese Ziti al Forno is Olive Garden’s signature baked pasta dish and a paradise for cheese lovers. “Al Forno” means “from the oven” in Italian, and that’s exactly how this dish is prepared — ziti pasta is tossed in a marinara sauce blended with five Italian cheeses (mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, Romano, and fontina), then topped with a layer of Alfredo sauce and baked until golden, bubbly, and irresistible.

At $18.49, it’s one of the most affordable entrees on the Olive Garden menu and a favorite among both vegetarians and cheese enthusiasts. The combination of marinara on the bottom and Alfredo on top creates a two-tone flavor experience — tangy and tomato-forward meets creamy and buttery — that’s unlike any other dish on the menu.

Price in 2026

The Five Cheese Ziti al Forno is priced at $18.49, making it the second cheapest entree on the menu after Spaghetti with Meat Sauce ($17.49). For a baked pasta dish with five cheeses, unlimited soup or salad, and unlimited breadsticks, this is exceptional value. Adding chicken (+$5.49) or shrimp (+$6.49) brings the price to the mid-$20s, which is still competitive with other protein-centered entrees.

The Five Cheeses Explained

What makes this dish special is the combination of five distinct Italian cheeses, each bringing something different:

• Mozzarella: Provides the gooey, stretchy melt that makes baked pasta so satisfying. It forms the bubbly golden top layer.
• Ricotta: Adds creamy pockets throughout the dish — those small, smooth white dots you see when you cut into it. It keeps the pasta moist.
• Parmesan: Brings a sharp, nutty depth of flavor. It’s grated into the sauce for even distribution.
• Romano: Similar to Parmesan but slightly saltier and tangier. It amplifies the overall cheesiness.
• Fontina: A semi-soft Italian cheese with a smooth, buttery flavor. It melts beautifully and adds richness without being overpowering.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 1,050
• Fat: 48g
• Saturated Fat: 22g
• Sodium: 2,180mg
• Carbs: 102g
• Protein: 48g

At 1,050 calories, it’s in the middle of the entree range. It’s lighter than Chicken Alfredo (1,570 cal) but heavier than Shrimp Scampi (610 cal). The protein content is surprisingly high at 48g — all from cheese — making it one of the more protein-rich vegetarian options at any chain restaurant.

Why It’s a Fan Favorite

The Five Cheese Ziti consistently ranks as one of Olive Garden’s most ordered dishes for several reasons:

• Best value: At $18.49, you get a baked, cheesy pasta dish that’s genuinely filling
• Vegetarian-friendly: One of the best meatless entrees at any chain restaurant — no compromises on flavor
• Unique preparation: The dual-sauce approach (marinara bottom, Alfredo top) is something you won’t find elsewhere
• Comfort factor: Baked pasta with five cheeses is peak comfort food
• Customizable: Adding chicken or shrimp makes it a protein-heavy meal

Customizations

• Add grilled chicken (+$5.49): Adds 250 calories and makes it more of a complete meal
• Add shrimp (+$6.49): A lighter protein option that adds 120 calories
• Add Italian sausage: Some locations can add sausage for an upcharge — ask your server
• Extra Alfredo on top: If you love the creamy layer, ask for extra — it makes the top even richer
• Substitute gluten-free pasta: Available at no extra charge

How It Compares

• vs. Lasagna Classico ($19.49): Both are baked and cheesy, but Lasagna has meat sauce and the Ziti is vegetarian. Ziti is $1 cheaper.
• vs. Spaghetti with Meat Sauce ($17.49): Spaghetti is $1 cheaper but much simpler. The Ziti is the better choice if you want rich, baked flavors.
• vs. Chicken Alfredo ($26.49): The Alfredo is $8 more and cream-only. Ziti gives you the best of both marinara and Alfredo worlds at a lower price.

Catering Tip

Five Cheese Ziti al Forno is one of the best catering options at Olive Garden. A small pan ($48.99, serves 6-8) is the most affordable catering entree and works for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. It’s universally loved, easy to serve, and holds up well during transport.

Find It Near You

Available at all Olive Garden locations for dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Find your nearest Olive Garden on our location map, or see our complete menu guide for all entree pricing.