We’ve all craved that perfect cheesy twist in our favorite dishes and the Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend delivers just that. This versatile mix of Parmesan Romano Asiago provolone and mozzarella brings authentic Italian flavors straight to our kitchens making every meal feel special.
It’s ideal for quick weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings as we experiment with its rich melt and bold taste. Join us as we dive into creative recipes that highlight this go-to ingredient and elevate your cooking game.
Ingredients
As we explore creative recipes with Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, let’s dive into the essential ingredients that bring authentic Italian flavors to life. We’ll organize these by recipe for easy reference, ensuring you have everything ready before you start cooking. Our lists include precise measurements and prep notes to help you achieve perfect results every time.
Baked Ziti Recipe Ingredients
Here’s a curated list of ingredients for our Baked Ziti, ordered as they’re used in the preparation process:
- Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend: 2 cups, shredded – Use this as the star topping for a melty, flavorful finish.
- Pasta (ziti or penne): 1 pound, uncooked – Boil until al dente for the base layer.
- Ground Italian sausage: 1 pound – Brown in a skillet to build the meaty foundation.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced – Sauté with the sausage for added aroma and depth.
- Garlic cloves: 3, minced – Add after the onion for a fresh, pungent kick.
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 28 ounces – Stir in next for the sauce base, simmering to meld flavors.
- Fresh basil leaves: ¼ cup, chopped – Incorporate into the sauce for a burst of herbal notes.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons – Use to coat the pan before browning the sausage.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste – Season the sauce mixture for balanced flavor.
Stuffed Peppers Recipe Ingredients
For our Stuffed Peppers recipe, which highlights the versatility of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, here’s the ingredient list ordered by use:
- Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend: 1½ cups, shredded – Sprinkle on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
- Bell peppers (any color): 4 large, halved and seeds removed – Prepare these first as the vessels for stuffing.
- Ground beef: 1 pound – Cook initially to form the hearty filling.
- Cooked rice: 2 cups – Mix in after the beef for texture and bulk.
- Marinara sauce: 1 cup – Add to the filling mixture for moisture and taste.
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon – Season the beef mixture early for even distribution.
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon – Stir into the filling for an earthy Italian herb note.
- Egg: 1 large – Beat and add to bind the filling together.
This selection showcases how Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend elevates simple ingredients into delicious meals, making your cooking effortless and impressive.
Instructions
We guide you through the straightforward steps to craft mouthwatering dishes with our Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, ensuring each recipe highlights its rich, melty flavors of Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, provolone, and mozzarella. Let’s elevate your meals with these easy-to-follow instructions for Baked Ziti and Stuffed Peppers.
Prep
For Baked Ziti, we start by gathering and prepping the ingredients to build a flavorful base. Begin with 1 pound of pasta—boil a large pot of water and cook the pasta until al dente then drain it. In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and sauté 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves until fragrant and golden about 5 minutes. Brown 1 pound of ground Italian sausage in the same skillet breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s no longer pink then stir in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes 1 tablespoon of fresh basil and seasonings like salt and pepper to taste creating a savory sauce that will pair perfectly with the creamy Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend.
For Stuffed Peppers, we prepare the filling components first to ensure even cooking. Halve 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes then set them aside. In a mixing bowl combine 1 pound of ground beef 2 cups of cooked rice 1½ cups of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend 1 cup of marinara sauce 1 teaspoon of garlic powder 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 beaten egg mixing until the ingredients form a cohesive hearty mixture that promises a burst of Italian-inspired taste in every bite.
Cook
For Baked Ziti, we transfer the sausage-tomato mixture to a baking dish and mix in the cooked pasta along with 1 cup of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend spreading it evenly. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the dish uncovered for 20 minutes allowing the cheese to melt into a gooey golden layer that bubbles enticingly and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of herbs and cheese.
For Stuffed Peppers, we cook the prepared filling in a skillet over medium heat for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until the ground beef is fully browned and the flavors meld into a savory blend. Stuff each bell pepper half with the mixture then place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes watching as the Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend on top transforms into a crispy melted crust that adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender peppers.
Assemble and Serve
For Baked Ziti, we top the baked mixture with the remaining 1 cup of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend and broil for 2-3 minutes until it’s perfectly browned and stringy inviting you to dig into its warm comforting layers. Serve immediately garnished with extra fresh basil for a vibrant pop of color and flavor that makes this dish a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
For Stuffed Peppers, we arrange the cooked peppers on a platter and sprinkle any leftover Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend on top for an extra cheesy finish. Plate them alongside a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the robust tastes allowing the melted cheese to stretch and shine as you serve creating a satisfying meal that showcases the versatile appeal of our cheese blend in every hearty bite.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend recipes for Baked Ziti and Stuffed Peppers to life, we rely on essential tools and equipment that ensure precise preparation and optimal results. Below, we break down the must-have items by recipe, using bold for key tools and italics for specific features or tips to enhance your cooking experience.
For Baked Ziti
This hearty dish requires tools that handle boiling, mixing, and baking efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large pot: For boiling pasta to al dente perfection, ensuring it holds up when baked with our Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend.
- Skillet or frying pan: A 12-inch size works best for browning sausage and simmering the tomato sauce, allowing flavors to meld seamlessly.
- Baking dish: Opt for a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic one to create an even, golden crust on the cheese-topped ziti.
- Mixing spoon or spatula: Use a heat-resistant silicone version for stirring ingredients without scratching surfaces.
- Oven thermometer: To maintain the ideal 375°F baking temperature, guaranteeing that melty layers of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend achieve a bubbly, irresistible texture.
For Stuffed Peppers
For this recipe, focus on tools that aid in chopping, mixing, and even baking to highlight the crispy cheese topping.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: A sturdy board paired with a 8-inch chef’s knife for slicing bell peppers cleanly, preparing them to hold the flavorful filling.
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ground beef, rice, and Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend into a cohesive mixture that stuffs peppers perfectly.
- Baking dish: A 9×9-inch dish to hold the peppers upright during baking, allowing the cheese to form a golden, crispy exterior.
- Spoon or scoop: A tablespoon-sized tool for evenly stuffing peppers, ensuring each one is packed with the cheesy, savory blend.
- Oven mitts: Heat-resistant ones for safely handling hot dishes, as we bake at 400°F to melt and brown the cheese topping.
By having these tools ready, we make the process of incorporating Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend into your meals straightforward and enjoyable, leading seamlessly into serving your creations.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To maximize the convenience of our Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend recipes, we can prepare dishes like Baked Ziti and Stuffed Peppers in advance. This approach allows us to enjoy authentic Italian flavors without last-minute hassle, making weeknight dinners or gatherings effortless.
For Baked Ziti
We recommend preparing Baked Ziti up to 24 hours ahead for optimal freshness and flavor. Follow these steps to ensure the dish retains its gooey, golden cheese topping:
- Assemble the dish: After mixing the cooked pasta with the sausage-tomato sauce and Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, transfer everything to the baking dish but do not bake it yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying.
- Refrigerate: Store the assembled dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors of the cheese blend—featuring Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella—to meld beautifully.
- Bake when ready: When it’s time to serve, preheat the oven to 375°F. Remove the covering and bake as directed in the original instructions, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This ensures the cheese melts evenly into a crispy, irresistible crust.
For longer storage, we can freeze the assembled Baked Ziti for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and check the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
For Stuffed Peppers
Our Stuffed Peppers with Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend can be made ahead to lock in their hearty, melty goodness. Here’s how we handle preparation, storage, and reheating:
- Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers: Mix the ground beef, rice, marinara sauce, seasonings, and Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend as outlined. Stuff the bell peppers and place them in the baking dish, but skip the initial baking step.
- Store properly: Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step enhances the cheese’s rich, nutty notes from Asiago and provolone.
- Cook fresh: Preheat the oven to 400°F before baking. Remove the covering and bake according to the original instructions, adding about 5–10 minutes if needed from the cold fridge. Aim for a golden, bubbly cheese topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender peppers.
If freezing, wrap the stuffed peppers individually in foil and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, ensuring even heating for the best texture.
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure our Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend recipes stay delicious and ready to impress.
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed exploring the Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend’s magic in our recipes. It’s a versatile star that elevates everyday meals with rich, authentic flavors.
As we wrap up, let’s encourage you to experiment and make these dishes your own. You’ll discover how this blend adds that irresistible cheesy touch to impress family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend?
Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend is a convenient mix of Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, provolone, and mozzarella cheeses. It delivers authentic Italian flavors, perfect for enhancing everything from quick weeknight dinners to special occasions. This versatile blend melts beautifully, adding a rich, savory touch to your favorite dishes.
How can I use Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend in recipes?
This cheese blend works great in Italian-inspired meals like pasta bakes and stuffed veggies. Use it to top casseroles for a gooey finish or mix into fillings for extra flavor. It’s ideal for both simple and impressive dishes, elevating everyday ingredients with its melty texture and authentic taste.
What are the ingredients for Baked Ziti?
For Baked Ziti, you’ll need 2 cups of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, pasta, ground Italian sausage, onion, garlic, canned crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and seasonings. This combination creates a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and full of cheesy goodness.
How do I make Baked Ziti with this cheese blend?
Start by cooking pasta and browning sausage with onion, garlic, and tomatoes to make a sauce. Mix with pasta and 2 cups of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, then bake in a dish until bubbly and golden on top. It takes about 30-40 minutes at 375°F for a melty, delicious result.
What ingredients are needed for Stuffed Peppers?
For Stuffed Peppers, gather 1½ cups of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend, bell peppers, ground beef, cooked rice, marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, and an egg. These simple ingredients combine to make a hearty, flavorful filling that’s baked to perfection.
How do I prepare Stuffed Peppers using the cheese blend?
Hollow out bell peppers, mix ground beef with rice, marinara, seasonings, and an egg, then stir in 1½ cups of Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend. Stuff the peppers and bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until the cheese melts and forms a crispy top. It’s a straightforward, tasty meal.
Can these recipes be made ahead of time?
Yes, both Baked Ziti and Stuffed Peppers can be prepped in advance. Assemble Baked Ziti up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 2 months—thaw and bake as needed. For Stuffed Peppers, prepare and stuff them ahead, store in the fridge, and bake when ready for fresh, flavorful results.
What tools are required for these recipes?
For Baked Ziti, use a large pot for pasta, a skillet for sausage, a baking dish, mixing spoon, and oven thermometer. For Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need a cutting board, sharp knife, mixing bowl, baking dish, stuffing spoon, and oven mitts. These basics ensure smooth prep and great outcomes.
What are some serving ideas for these dishes?
Serve Baked Ziti with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal, or pair Stuffed Peppers with crusty Italian bread and steamed veggies. The Kraft Italian Five Cheese Blend adds a gourmet touch, making these dishes perfect for family dinners or gatherings—top with extra cheese for added appeal.