Spaghetti Pie is a fun and delicious twist on classic pasta that turns a traditional spaghetti dinner into a baked, sliceable dish perfect for feeding a crowd. The spaghetti is mixed with eggs, cheese, and sauce to form a savory “crust,” then baked with layers of meat, more sauce, and cheese on top. This hearty dish is not only flavorful but also makes a great make-ahead meal that can be reheated for busy weeknights. With its crispy edges and cheesy center, Spaghetti Pie is a comforting and family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the spaghetti crust: In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the ricotta (or cottage cheese), Parmesan cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss until well combined.
- Assemble the pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a springform pan. Press the spaghetti mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the dish to form a “crust.”
- Add the meat sauce: Spread the meat and marinara sauce mixture evenly over the spaghetti crust. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the spaghetti pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
This Spaghetti Pie is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners, offering a creative and delicious way to enjoy spaghetti!
