A delightful and creamy pasta bake combining tender chicken, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses for a comforting meal.
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Preheating ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking and reduce oil usage.
Add the mushrooms, onion, and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until tender.
Cook until the vegetables release their moisture and start to caramelize for added flavor.
Stir in the spinach, oregano, and black pepper, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Add the spinach in batches if needed, as it wilts down significantly.
Blend the cottage cheese in a food processor until smooth.
Blending ensures a creamy texture for the sauce.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, sautéed vegetables, blended cottage cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and milk.
Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to set the layers.
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy chicken and spinach penne bake.
Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.