Description
Delicious and comforting Spaghetti Pie combines a buttery spaghetti crust with layers of creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella, baked to bubbly perfection. This easy-to-make Italian-inspired casserole is perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals, offering a hearty twist on classic spaghetti.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Crust
- 6 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cheese Layer
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Meat Sauce
- 1/2 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking.
- Make Spaghetti Crust: In a large bowl, toss the hot cooked spaghetti with butter until fully melted and evenly coated. Stir in the beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese to bind the pasta. Press this spaghetti mixture firmly into the prepared pie dish, forming a crust that comes slightly up the sides.
- Spread Ricotta Layer: Evenly spread the ricotta cheese over the spaghetti crust to add a creamy texture to the pie.
- Cook Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer briefly to meld the flavors.
- Assemble Pie: Spoon the prepared meat sauce over the ricotta layer evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top to cover the pie.
- Bake: Bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the spaghetti pie to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired for added freshness and color.
Notes
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready, making meal prep easy.
- Utilize leftover pasta and marinara sauce to reduce waste and speed up preparation.
- Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for additional flavor and nutrients.
- Ensure to drain the cooked meat well to avoid an overly greasy pie.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
