Name: Spaghetti Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 6 ounces spaghetti; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 large eggs; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley; ½ teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh; 1 pound lean ground beef or italian sausage; ½ small onion diced; 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes drained; 2 cups pasta sauce or marinara sauce

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Spaghetti pie is an interesting twist on the classic spaghetti and meat sauce dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine a hearty, savory pie filled to the brim with that all-too-familiar Italian flavor. The crispy spaghetti crust hugs a rich filling of seasoned meat, smooth ricotta, and bubbling mozzarella cheese that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering, this dish brings everyone together around the table, and each slice is bursting with flavor.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spaghetti Pie
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spaghetti Pie

I first discovered spaghetti pie while experimenting in the kitchen, trying to find creative ways to make dinner exciting without extra fuss. As the aromas wafted through my home, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This dish marries the simplicity of a pasta meal with the visual appeal of a pie, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you’re tired of traditional pasta and want a dish that offers both comfort and style, this is the recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just a bit of prep and some baking time, you can whip this up in about 30 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich ricotta, seasoned beef, and zesty marinara creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The layered look of spaghetti pie makes it a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner, leftovers for lunch, or even as a party dish that everyone will rave about.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily swap out beef for turkey or even go vegetarian with plant-based proteins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty topping adds an unbeatable gooeyness and is perfect for that golden finish.
6 ounces spaghetti: Use your favorite brand; al dente is key for a good crust.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness to the crust and helps to bind the spaghetti.
2 large eggs: These provide structure and stability to the spaghetti crust.
½ cup grated parmesan cheese: A burst of cheesy flavor that enhances the entire dish.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mildly flavored; it creates a smooth layer inside the pie.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the filling and add a pop of color.
½ teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh: This aromatic herb gives the dish its Italian flair.
1 pound lean ground beef or Italian sausage: Choose your favorite for protein; both offer excellent flavor.
½ small onion diced: Sweetens the meat mixture slightly and adds depth to the overall taste.
14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes drained: Provides moisture and a hint of acidity to balance the richness.
2 cups pasta sauce or marinara sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade for the best flavor.

How to Make Spaghetti Pie

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab a deep-dish pie plate and grease it well to ensure your pie comes out effortlessly after baking.
Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the 1 pound of ground beef (or Italian sausage) until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced ½ small onion, cooking until slightly softened—about 3 minutes. Stir in the drained 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes along with 2 cups of pasta sauce, letting it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes or until it thickens up.
Prepare the Spaghetti: While the meat sauce simmers, boil a large pot of salted water and cook the 6 ounces of spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. Once done, drain it well and return it to the pot.
Form the Crust: Mix the drained spaghetti with 2 tablespoons of butter in the prepared pie plate, tossing to coat. Stir in 2 large beaten eggs and the ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese, pressing the mixture to form a solid crust about 1/2-inch thick.
Add the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the 1 cup of ricotta cheese with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (or the dried version) and the ½ teaspoon of dried basil. Spread this creamy mixture into the spaghetti crust, creating an even layer.
Top with Meat Sauce: Spoon the meat sauce directly on top of the ricotta filling, spreading it evenly.
Bake It All Together: Bake the pie uncovered for 20-25 minutes. In the final five minutes, sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake until it is beautifully browned and bubbling. Let the pie rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Storing & Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze spaghetti pie for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly when reheated; if it seems dry, a splash of sauce can help refresh it!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be careful not to overcook the spaghetti; al dente strands will hold up better for the crust.
If you’re making this ahead of time, you can prepare the crust and filling separately, then assemble and bake just before serving.
Use room temperature eggs for easier mixing into the spaghetti.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking. This makes it easier to slice and lets the flavors meld.
Consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Spaghetti pie brings together the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine in a bright and innovative way. It’s incredibly flexible, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your preferences. This dish is perfect for those past-a-holic moments when you’re craving something familiar yet thrillingly different. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it’ll quickly become a staple in your household!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make spaghetti pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the spaghetti crust and filling separately, then assemble them just before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or gatherings.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese is a tasty alternative. Just remember to blend it slightly for a smoother texture. You could also use a dairy-free option like cashew cream.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian substitutes work wonderfully in this dish. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance flavor.

How do I serve spaghetti pie?

Spaghetti pie makes an excellent main course for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it alongside a simple salad and garlic bread, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to please!

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Spaghetti Pie

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dishes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

This Spaghetti Pie combines rich flavors of mozzarella, ricotta, and seasoned beef in a cozy dish that’s easy to prepare, perfect for quick dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
6 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter
2 large eggs
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh
1 pound lean ground beef or italian sausage
½ small onion diced
14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes drained
2 cups pasta sauce or marinara sauce

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a deep-dish pie plate.
In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium-high heat, then drain the fat. Add the onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened, then stir in the tomatoes and pasta sauce, simmering uncovered for 10 minutes until thickened.
While the beef is cooking, prepare a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti al dente according to package directions, then drain.
Place the drained spaghetti in the prepared pie plate, add butter, and toss to coat. Stir in eggs and parmesan cheese, pressing down to form a crust.
In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, parsley, and basil, then spread this mixture into the spaghetti crust. Top with the meat sauce.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, add mozzarella on top and bake for another 5 minutes until cheese is browned and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure to drain the tomatoes well to prevent excess moisture in the pie.
Feel free to substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor.
This dish can be made in advance and reheated for a convenient meal.