Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: spaghetti pie! This dish is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, combining all those cheesy, savory flavors into a pie that’s perfect for sharing—or devouring all by yourself! I remember the first time I made it; I was looking for something different to serve at a family gathering, and wow, did it steal the show! The way the pasta blends with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella just warms my heart. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Trust me, once you try this spaghetti pie recipe, you’ll be hooked on its comforting goodness too!
Ingredients for Spaghetti Pie Recipe
- 8 oz spaghetti – Your favorite spaghetti, cooked to al dente perfection.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese – Creamy and rich, this is the heart of our filling.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded – For that melty, gooey texture we all crave.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 3 large eggs – These help bind everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – A pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors in this dish.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – A touch of spice to elevate the taste.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – Your choice of jarred sauce; it’s the perfect topping!
How to Prepare the Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Preheat and Cook the Spaghetti
First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab your spaghetti and cook it according to the package directions. I usually go for al dente so it holds up nicely in the pie. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside to cool a bit.
Mix the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, eggs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I really love the way these flavors come together! Use a spatula or a whisk to mix everything until it’s nice and smooth. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Combine Spaghetti with Cheese Mixture
Now, it’s time to bring the spaghetti into the mix! Add the cooked spaghetti to your cheesy filling and stir it all together until every noodle is coated in that luscious cheese. Trust me, thorough mixing is key here; you want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
Assemble the Pie
Next up, let’s get everything into the pie dish. Grease your pie dish with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Spread half of that delicious marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish. This not only adds flavor but keeps the pie moist. Pour in the spaghetti mixture and spread it out evenly. Top it off with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. Oh, it’s looking so good already!
Bake and Cool
Pop your assembled spaghetti pie into the oven and bake it for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Don’t rush this part; letting it bake gives those flavors time to meld beautifully! Once it’s out, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps it set up nicely for serving. You can check if it’s done by gently shaking the dish; there shouldn’t be too much jiggle in the center!
Tips for Success
Now, let’s make sure your spaghetti pie turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your dish:
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Aim for al dente! If it’s too soft, it might get mushy in the pie.
- Experiment with cheeses: If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile. Yum!
- Add veggies: Throw in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini for extra nutrition and color. Just make sure to chop them finely!
- Let it sit: Allowing the pie to cool a bit before slicing helps it hold its shape. Plus, the flavors meld together even more!
- Serve with a salad: A fresh side salad pairs wonderfully with spaghetti pie. It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
- Customize the marinara: Feel free to jazz up your marinara sauce with Italian herbs or a splash of red wine for added depth.
- Make it ahead: This dish is great for meal prep! You can assemble it a day in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
With these tips, you’ll have a spaghetti pie that’s not only delicious but also impressively homemade. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Variations on the Spaghetti Pie Recipe
One of the best things about this spaghetti pie recipe is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Veggie Delight: Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an extra nutritious twist. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture so the pie doesn’t get soggy!
- Cheesy Extravaganza: Mix in different cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or even pepper jack for a kick. Each cheese brings its own flavor profile, making every bite exciting!
- Meat Lover’s Pie: If you’re a fan of meat, consider adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or even diced chicken into the spaghetti mixture. It’ll turn this dish into a hearty meal!
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by tossing in fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. They add a lovely aromatic quality that makes your pie even more delightful!
- Italian Style: Swap the marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce if you’re in the mood for something richer. It transforms the dish into a creamy pasta dream!
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the cheese mixture. It adds just the right amount of spice!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish accessible for everyone. It tastes just as good, I promise!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas, and don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen! The beauty of this spaghetti pie is that it can be whatever you want it to be. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s in this delicious spaghetti pie! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so your own pie might vary a bit depending on what you use. But here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 18g
This spaghetti pie is not just comforting and delicious; it also packs a good amount of protein and carbohydrates to keep you satisfied. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite knowing you’re treating yourself to something both tasty and nourishing!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this scrumptious spaghetti pie? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and helpful answers to guide you through your cooking adventure:
Can I make spaghetti pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the whole pie a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re set to eat!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as tasty the next day!
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can swap it out for cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture. Just keep an eye on the moisture level!
Can I freeze spaghetti pie?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual. It’s a great make-ahead meal!
What should I serve with spaghetti pie?
A fresh side salad is perfect alongside spaghetti pie! It adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a truly comforting meal.
Can I add meat to the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or even diced chicken to the spaghetti mixture for a heartier dish. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding!
How do I know when the spaghetti pie is done?
It’s done when the top is golden and bubbly, and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the dish. A gentle shake should reveal a firm center with only a slight jiggle.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions! Enjoy whipping up this spaghetti pie and delighting in every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just a little prep time, you can have this hearty dish in the oven and on the table in under an hour!
- Comforting and satisfying: Each bite is packed with cheesy goodness and familiar flavors that just feel like a warm hug.
- Vegetarian-friendly: This spaghetti pie recipe is perfect for meatless meals while still being filling and delicious.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses, making it a dish that never gets boring!
- Great for leftovers: It keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner the next day without losing any flavor.
- Family-approved: It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
- Impressive presentation: Serving a slice of spaghetti pie looks so fancy and inviting, yet it’s so easy to make!
- Meal prep friendly: You can assemble it ahead of time, saving you time and stress on busy weeknights.
Spaghetti Pie Recipe: 7 Comforting Tips You Can’t Miss
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A delicious spaghetti pie that combines pasta and cheese in a savory dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
- Grease a pie dish and spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Spaghetti Pie Recipe, Pasta, Italian Dish