Spaghetti Pie is a delightful and creative twist on traditional spaghetti that combines your favorite pasta dish with the ease of a casserole. This dish features a comforting blend of spaghetti, cheese, and a savory sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s not only a fun way to serve spaghetti but also an excellent option for feeding a crowd or prepping for busy weeknights. With its cheesy goodness and satisfying flavors, Spaghetti Pie is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a round casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Pasta Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
Step 4: Form the Crust
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared pie dish, pressing it down firmly to form a crust. Make sure to create an even layer along the bottom and up the sides of the dish.
Step 5: Add the Fillings
Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust. If using ground beef or sausage, sprinkle it on top of the ricotta. Pour the marinara sauce over the top, ensuring it covers the filling evenly.
Step 6: Cheese it Up
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and then sprinkle Italian seasoning on top for extra flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Place the Spaghetti Pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or cheddar, for varied flavors.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
Cooking Notes
- Cooking Spaghetti: Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti, as it will continue to cook while baking.
- Sauce Options: You can use homemade marinara sauce or store-bought for convenience. Try adding crushed garlic or onions to enhance the flavor.
- Serving Size: This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings. Just use a larger dish and adjust cooking time as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Spaghetti Pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips
- Leftover Storage: Store leftover Spaghetti Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked Spaghetti Pie for later use. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the fridge until ready to bake, making it ideal for meal prepping.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 380 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 750mg
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use other pasta shapes, such as penne or fusilli, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
2. Is Spaghetti Pie good for leftovers?
Absolutely! It reheats well and can be enjoyed as a quick meal during the week.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Pie is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a classic pasta dish, combining the comfort of spaghetti with the heartiness of a pie. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your household. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and hearty flavors of Spaghetti Pie!