The aroma of baked spaghetti wafts through the kitchen as I pull a golden-brown Spaghetti Pie from the oven. This delightful dish combines familiar pasta flavors with a comforting pie-like structure, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. Its hearty nature and fusion of creamy ricotta with savory meats make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is perfect for families looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or for anyone hosting a casual gathering. It’s also easy to make ahead; just prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Layers of spaghetti create a unique, comforting texture.
- Baked until golden, it offers a delicious, warm crust.
- It’s versatile; swap in your favorite proteins or veggies.
- Quick to prepare, it’s ready in under an hour.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your Spaghetti Pie.
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces spaghetti
For the Meat Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
For the Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Consider using ground turkey for a leaner option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground beef can be replaced with turkey.
- Ricotta cheese can be swapped for cottage cheese.
- Use any marinara sauce you prefer.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with parsley.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Spaghetti Pie.
Preheat
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and toss with olive oil.
Brown
In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned; add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine
In a bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Layer
Grease a pie dish and layer half the spaghetti mixture on the bottom.
Add Sauce
Add the meat sauce on top of the spaghetti layer, followed by the remaining spaghetti mixture.
Top
Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
Cool
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Garnish
Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, tightly wrap for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Drain the spaghetti thoroughly to prevent sogginess.
- Use a deep dish for a thicker pie.
- Allow the pie to cool a bit before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Perfect for a potluck or family gathering.
