Meatless Monday: Baked Pasta

This can be made WITH OR WITHOUT meat, generally chicken.   We have had it both ways, delish either way!


1 1/2 cups multigrain Penne Pasta (I just use regular pasta, anykind!)
1 pkg Fresh Spinach leaves (I use frozen, just make sure its defrosted first)
1tsp dried basil leaves
1 jar (14 1/2oz) of Spaghetti or pasta sauce (any kind)
1can diced tomatoes
2 oz (1/4 of a 8oz brick) cream cheese
1 cup shredded Mozzerella cheese
2 tbsp Grated Parmesan cheese

Heat oven to 375.

Cook pasta, adding spinache to the boiling water for the last minute. ** In another pan, add sauce, basil,  and tomatoes, bring to a boil. simmer 3 minutes.  Stir in cream cheese.

Drain pasta, return to pan.  Add sauce mixture and 1/2 of shredded mozzerella.  Spoon into a 2qu baking dish. Bake 20 minutes.  Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake another 3 minutes.

**TO ADD THE CHICKEN:  take 1 lb of chicken, (about 3 or 4 breasts) cube them, and brown them in a separate pan while the pasta is cooking.  Add the basil, THEN the sauce and continue according to the directions.