Ragu Easy Pasta Twist Casserole
A cheesy, flavorful pasta casserole with rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and creamy ricotta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked twist pasta with Ragu spaghetti sauce.
- Layer half of the pasta mixture in an 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Evenly spoon ricotta or cottage cheese over the pasta layer.
- Sprinkle diced mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture over the cheeses.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some ricotta cheese with the mozzarella. If you don't have Ragu spaghetti sauce, any marinara sauce will work well. You can also substitute twist pasta with penne or rotini for a different shape. For added flavor, consider adding Italian herbs to the sauce or mixing in cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a main dish and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside Italian recipes like Old Fashioned Minestrone. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ragu Easy Pasta Twist Casserole contains roughly 310 calories, with 23g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 624mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique flavor. Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt well to maintain the desired texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. To bake from frozen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).