Five Cheese Baked Ziti

Five Cheese Baked Ziti

I made this meal for my mother-in-law, Dominica, the first time she met my mother! It was a huge hit with Caesar salad and garlic bread! (Be warned, it makes A LOT!)

1 box penne pasta

1 16 oz container of ricotta cheese

1 8 oz pkg cream cheese

2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded

1 cup cottage cheese

1 pkg frozen spinach, thawed and drained

1 pint cherry tomatoes, diced

3 heaping tablespoons minced garlic

Bread crumbs for topping

Prepare the penne to al dente (still firm, but cooked). Drain. Combine all the cheeses in a large mixing bowl. Add the spinach, tomatoes, and garlic. In a LARGE, DEEP baking dish (I use a 3 quart baking/roasting pottery dish I have) combine the penne with the cheese and veggie mix.

Make sure the pasta and cheese mix is combined well. Top with breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Season with Italian seasoning to taste. (Or use seasoned breadcrumbs)

Bake at 350 degrees for 25-35 minutes, or until the pasta is soft and the cheese it all melted. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to make sure you get a crispy topping!