There’s something magical about spaghetti pie that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Imagine a warm, savory crust holding a delicious mix of pasta, cheese, and your favorite ingredients, all baked to golden perfection. Each slice is like a hug for your taste buds, an invitation to dive into a world of flavor that feels nostalgic yet exciting.
Growing up, spaghetti pie was my family’s go-to dish for Sunday dinners. The aroma wafting through the house promised an unforgettable feast that brought everyone together around the table. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in when you want to impress without too much fuss. Get ready for mouthwatering flavors that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This spaghetti pie is incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized based on what you have on hand
- Each slice offers a beautiful presentation with layers of pasta and cheese
- Its rich flavors make it perfect for casual family dinners or special occasions
- Versatile enough to adapt to different dietary preferences, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table
One time, I made spaghetti pie for friends who had never tried it before, and their reactions were priceless—wide eyes and happy sighs all around!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti: About 12 ounces of spaghetti works well; use your favorite kind for a personal touch.
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Eggs: You’ll need 3 large eggs to bind everything together; they add richness and texture.
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Ricotta Cheese: One cup creates a creamy layer that enhances flavor; opt for whole milk ricotta for extra creaminess.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Two cups will give that gooey cheese pull we all crave; fresh mozzarella adds delightful texture.
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Your Choice of Protein: Ground beef, turkey, or even veggies work well; customize based on dietary preferences.
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Marinara Sauce: Use one jar (about 24 ounces) for a flavorful base; homemade sauce can elevate the dish significantly.
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Parmesan Cheese: A quarter cup grates over the top beautifully for added flavor; freshly grated is always best.
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Italian Seasoning: One tablespoon brings out the classic Italian flavors; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
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Salt and Pepper: A pinch or two enhances overall flavor; season thoughtfully throughout the cooking process.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Spaghetti: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add salt generously before tossing in 12 ounces of spaghetti. Cook until al dente according to package instructions—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, brown your choice of protein until thoroughly cooked—ground beef or turkey work wonderfully here! Drain excess fat and stir in one jar of marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning. Let simmer while you prep the next steps.
Mix Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine three large eggs with one cup of ricotta cheese and half of two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy—this will create that comforting cheesy layer everyone loves.
Combine Everything Together: Once spaghetti is cooked and drained, add it to the cheese mixture along with the meat sauce from your skillet. Stir gently until everything is combined evenly—watch those cheesy strings form as you mix!
Bake Your Spaghetti Pie: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese over everything for an extra cheesy finish.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Let cool briefly before slicing—it’ll be hard not to dig in right away!
Now you’re ready to serve up slices of this scrumptious spaghetti pie! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you reminisce about why comfort food brings us all together around the table!
You Must Know
- This delightful spaghetti pie combines comfort food with a fun twist
- The aromatic blend of herbs and cheeses creates a mouthwatering experience, while the crispy top layer offers a satisfying crunch
- It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta al dente before mixing it with your favorite sauce and cheese. Bake until golden brown to achieve that irresistible crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like ricotta for cottage cheese or add veggies like spinach for extra nutrition. Everyone loves a personalized touch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain that delicious crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use a good quality cheese for richer flavor; it truly makes a difference
- Allow the spaghetti pie to rest for 10 minutes after baking; this helps set the layers perfectly
- Don’t overcook your pasta; it should remain slightly firm before baking!
Sharing spaghetti pie with friends at my last dinner party led to laughter and compliments all around—who knew comfort food could spark such joy?
FAQ
Can I make spaghetti pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake just before serving.
How long does spaghetti pie last in the fridge?
It lasts up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze leftovers of spaghetti pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers for up to two months; just reheat thoroughly before enjoying.
Spaghetti Pie
Spaghetti pie is the ultimate comfort food that combines hearty pasta, rich cheese, and savory flavors into a delightful baked dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a nostalgic yet exciting taste experience that will leave everyone craving more. With layers of spaghetti bound together with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella, every slice is a warm hug for your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or veggies)
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat; drain fat. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs with ricotta and half of the mozzarella until smooth.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with cheese mixture and meat sauce; mix well.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour mixture into greased baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
