If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of pasta and pie worlds, this Spaghetti Pie Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine tender spaghetti noodles baked into a golden, buttery crust, layered with creamy ricotta, savory ground beef in rich marinara, and topped with a melty blanket of mozzarella cheese. Every slice is a delightful mash-up of textures and flavors that feels both familiar and exciting — perfect for dinner with family or sharing with friends. Let me walk you through this delicious adventure so you can savor it at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully to create a sensational dish. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture that make the Spaghetti Pie Recipe so memorable.
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles: The foundation of the dish, cooked to just tender and ready to form the crust.
- 2 Tablespoons butter (melted): Adds richness and helps bind the spaghetti crust.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold the spaghetti crust together.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a tangy, nutty flavor enhancing the crust.
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, mild layer that balances the tomato sauce.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Infuses the ricotta with fragrant herbs like oregano and basil.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and depth of flavor to the meat sauce.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Either store-bought or homemade, this tomato sauce gives the pie its savory, tangy heart.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts over the top creating a gooey, golden finish.
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish): Adds a fresh, colorful note just before serving.
How to Make Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Toss the cooled spaghetti in melted butter, then mix in the beaten egg and grated Parmesan cheese. Press this mixture firmly into the pie dish to create a crust that will hold the layers on top perfectly.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ricotta Layer
Next, combine ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, stirring gently to mix the herbs evenly throughout. Spread this luscious, creamy ricotta mixture over the spaghetti crust with a spatula, smoothing it out into an even layer that promises a delicious, velvety bite in every slice.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease to keep the pie from becoming oily. Stir the marinara sauce into the meat, letting it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes so the flavors meld into a rich, savory sauce perfect for topping your ricotta layer.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Carefully spread the meat sauce over the ricotta layer, making sure to cover it completely but evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously on top to create that irresistible cheesy crust we all love. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove the spaghetti pie from the oven and let it cool for about five minutes. This resting time helps it set, making slicing cleaner and easier. Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top for a bright pop of color and a fresh herbal touch.
How to Serve Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or basil not only brighten the pie’s appearance but also add a fresh aroma that complements the rich layers. You can also try grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for a little extra flair and flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty Spaghetti Pie Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads like arugula or Caesar, roasted vegetables, or even garlic bread to round out the meal. Light, fresh sides balance the rich, cheesy pie perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins using the same layering technique or cut the pie into squares and arrange them on a platter for a party appetizer. You can also top each slice with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover spaghetti pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and the flavors even deepen overnight, making it a great next-day meal.
Freezing
This Spaghetti Pie Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave or reheat the whole pie in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly again. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning during reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep all the heartiness with no meat.
What type of cheese works best in the ricotta layer?
Classic whole-milk ricotta is perfect for creaminess and smooth texture, but you can also mix in a bit of shredded mozzarella for extra stretch or Parmesan for sharper flavor.
Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?
Yes, using gluten-free pasta works great here as long as you cook it carefully so it doesn’t get mushy when pressed into the crust.
Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
You can prepare the pie up to the assembly step, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it fresh when ready. This saves time on busy days.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Allowing the pie to rest for several minutes after baking helps it set. Using a sharp, thin knife and wiping the blade clean between cuts also creates neater slices.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti Pie Recipe is a fabulous way to transform everyday ingredients into something truly special. It’s comforting, fun, and full of flavor — a guaranteed winner whether you’re feeding family or impressing guests. Trust me, once you give this a try, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
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Spaghetti Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This delightful Spaghetti Pie combines classic Italian flavors in a unique baked dish. Featuring a spaghetti crust enriched with butter, egg, and Parmesan, layered with creamy ricotta seasoned with Italian herbs, a savory meat sauce made from ground beef and marinara, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal that serves six.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Crust
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 2 Tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Ricotta Layer
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Spaghetti: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
- Make Spaghetti Crust: In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with melted butter to coat evenly. Stir in the beaten egg and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared pie dish to form a solid crust base.
- Prepare Ricotta Layer: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning until blended. Spread this mixture evenly over the spaghetti crust in the pie dish.
- Cook Meat Sauce: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess grease. Add the marinara sauce to the beef and let it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Assemble and Bake: Spread the warm meat sauce over the ricotta layer in the pie dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley or basil before slicing and serving. Enjoy your hearty spaghetti pie!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider using freshly grated Parmesan and homemade marinara sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to lighten the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
- Ensure spaghetti is cooked al dente to maintain good texture after baking.
