Spaghetti Pie is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of both worlds: pasta and pie, with a twist that will have your taste buds dancing like no one is watching. Picture this savory delight with its golden, cheesy top, hiding a treasure trove of spaghetti, marinara sauce, and hidden gems of veggies or meats. It’s like a hug from your grandmother, but in pie form.
Imagine gathering around the table with friends and family, each bite bursting with familiar flavors that evoke warm memories. This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or potlucks where you want to impress without breaking a sweat. As the aroma wafts through your home, anticipation builds for an amazing flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spaghetti Pie is simple to prepare and brings a delightful twist to traditional pasta dishes
- With its cheesy top and hearty filling, it’s visually stunning and can be customized based on what you have on hand
- Perfect for family dinners or as a crowd-pleaser at parties!
I vividly recall the first time I served Spaghetti Pie at a family gathering; the delighted gasps were priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Spaghetti: Use your favorite pasta; al dente works best for optimal texture.
Marinara Sauce: Choose a rich, flavorful sauce or make your own for added freshness.
Eggs: These act as the binding agent; use large eggs for the right consistency.
Shredded Cheese: Mozzarella is classic here; feel free to mix in some Parmesan for extra flavor.
Ground Meat (optional): Ground beef or turkey adds protein; season it well for maximum flavor.
Vegetables (optional): Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms add nutrition and color; chop them finely.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spaghetti Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a pie dish with nonstick spray to ensure an easy release later. The anticipation of deliciousness starts here.
Cook the Spaghetti: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside, but don’t let it cool too long—it loves warmth!
Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce with cooked spaghetti. If you’re adding ground meat or vegetables, stir them in now. Remember, mixing thoroughly ensures every bite has flavor.
Add Eggs and Cheese: Beat eggs in another bowl and mix them into your spaghetti blend along with half of the shredded cheese. This binding step is crucial—think of it as giving your spaghetti a cozy blanket.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared pie dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula; this helps it cook uniformly and look fabulous when served.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing—try not to eat it all before it cools!
Remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows flavors to settle, making each piece easier to serve without losing its shape.
Enjoy every cheesy bite of Spaghetti Pie! It’s like indulging in pasta heaven while still feeling like you’re having dessert—who could ask for more?
You Must Know
- Spaghetti Pie is not just a dish; it’s a delightful twist on traditional pasta that combines comfort and creativity
- Its crispy edges and cheesy center create an irresistible aroma, making it a hit for family dinners or casual gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by boiling the spaghetti until al dente, then combine it with eggs and cheese before baking. This sequence ensures the pasta holds its shape while forming a delicious crust.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients like ricotta for cottage cheese or toss in veggies, such as spinach or bell peppers, to make it your own. Personalize it to suit your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Spaghetti Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to retain that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a flavor boost, add Italian seasoning to the spaghetti mix
- Ensure you don’t overcook your spaghetti; al dente is key!
- Use parchment paper for easy removal after baking and serving
Cooking this dish reminds me of family game nights where everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting for their slice of cheesy goodness straight from the oven.
FAQ
What is Spaghetti Pie?
Spaghetti Pie is a savory baked dish made with spaghetti, eggs, cheese, and various toppings.
Can I make Spaghetti Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and bake just before serving for best results.
What sides pair well with Spaghetti Pie?
A crisp garden salad or garlic bread complements Spaghetti Pie beautifully.
Spaghetti Pie
Spaghetti Pie is a delightful twist on classic pasta dishes, offering a cozy blend of spaghetti, marinara, and cheese baked to golden perfection. This savory pie is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, serving up comfort food that warms the heart and pleases the palate. With its customizable ingredients, it’s easy to make and will leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ground meat (optional, cooked and seasoned)
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (optional, e.g., spinach, bell peppers)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a pie dish.
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix marinara sauce with cooked spaghetti. Stir in optional meat and veggies if desired.
- Beat eggs in another bowl; combine with the spaghetti mixture and half of the cheese.
- Pour into the pie dish, spreading evenly. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For added flavor, mix Italian seasoning into the spaghetti blend or swap ricotta for cottage cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat at 350°F for 15 minutes.
