Ziti Alfredo from Fazoli's features tender ziti pasta smothered in a creamy Alfredo sauce made with rich Parmesan cheese and fresh cream, topped with a sprinkle of herbs for a smooth and indulgent Italian comfort meal.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking dish (optional, if baked)
- Ladle or serving spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (parsley, basil, oregano)
Using high-quality grated Parmesan cheese significantly enhances the creamy texture and authentic flavor of your Alfredo sauce. Fresh cream and unsalted butter contribute to the smooth richness essential for a classic Ziti Alfredo. To balance the dish, carefully measure salt and black pepper, ensuring the seasoning complements rather than overpowers the delicate sauce. Fresh garlic and Italian herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano add aromatic notes, elevating the overall taste. You can recreate the indulgent experience of Ziti Alfredo from Fazoli's copycat menu by paying attention to ingredient freshness and accurate proportions.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente; drain using a colander.
- In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and whisk until combined.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Add cooked ziti pasta to the sauce; toss to coat evenly.
- (Optional) Transfer to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes until golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Substitution
Ziti Alfredo from Fazoli's copycat menu offers a creamy, cheesy dish that's perfect for recreating at home. If you don't have ziti pasta, penne or rigatoni work as excellent substitutes due to their similar shape and ability to hold sauce. Use grated Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper flavor, or a blend of both cheeses for added complexity. Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of flour to maintain creaminess without extra fat. Your Alfredo sauce will thicken nicely if you whisk constantly and cook on medium-low heat, preventing curdling or separation.
Tips
When cooking ziti pasta, make sure to salt the boiling water generously to enhance flavor and cook until al dente to avoid mushy texture. Melt unsalted butter gently over medium heat and saute garlic carefully to prevent burning, which can cause bitterness in the Alfredo sauce. Whisk heavy cream continuously while adding Parmesan cheese for a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps. Your Ziti Alfredo can be baked briefly under the broiler for a golden top, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Nutritions
Ziti Alfredo from Fazoli's provides a rich source of calories and fats, primarily from heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, making it a high-energy meal ideal for those needing extra fuel. The pasta contributes a significant amount of carbohydrates, supplying your body with sustained energy. Butter adds saturated fats, while garlic and Italian herbs offer antioxidants and vitamins, enhancing the dish's nutritional profile. This indulgent meal suits those looking to enjoy Italian comfort food with a hearty, creamy texture.
Storage
Store leftover Ziti Alfredo in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the creamy sauce from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, gently warm your pasta on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to keep the Alfredo sauce smooth and creamy.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk for a lighter Alfredo sauce while maintaining creamy texture. To add protein, incorporate cooked grilled chicken or sauteed shrimp directly into the sauce before tossing with the pasta. If you prefer a baked version, mix in mozzarella cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for about 15 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned. Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic for a milder, more evenly distributed flavor in the sauce.
Allergies
Ziti Alfredo from Fazoli's contains dairy ingredients such as heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies. The dish also includes wheat-based ziti pasta, posing a risk for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease. You should consult ingredient lists carefully and communicate allergies when ordering to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Fazoli's Ziti Alfredo menu is popular due to its creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly cooked ziti pasta, and savory blend of Parmesan cheese and garlic. The dish offers a comforting, Italian-inspired flavor that satisfies cravings for rich, cheesy pasta without overpowering the palate. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize ingredients and enjoy a fresh, affordable meal that rivals the restaurant's quality. Your homemade Ziti Alfredo can capture the same delicious taste while providing the satisfaction of cooking a beloved dish.