Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spaghetti Pie takes all the goodness of spaghetti and transforms it into a fun, hearty pie. The “crust” made of pasta, cheese, and eggs provides a savory base that holds all the ingredients together. The filling is a flavorful mix of meat sauce and more cheese, which creates a satisfying, cheesy, and comforting dish. This is a great make-ahead meal, and it’s perfect for serving a crowd. It’s also versatile—feel free to add extra vegetables or change up the meat to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or something to impress your guests, Spaghetti Pie has got you covered!

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Pie:

  • 12 oz spaghetti

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

  • Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce:

  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, remove any excess fat.

  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

  • Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Prepare the Spaghetti Pie Base:

  • In a large bowl, beat the eggs and stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste.

  • Toss the cooked spaghetti into the egg and cheese mixture, ensuring that the noodles are evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Spaghetti Pie:

  • Spread the cheesy spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing it gently to form a “crust” along the bottom and sides of the dish.

  • Pour the meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti “crust,” spreading it out to cover the noodles.

  • Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake the Pie:

  • Bake the spaghetti pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

  • If you like a crispier crust, you can broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.

6. Serve:

  • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

  • Serve warm, with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8 servings

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 45 minutes

  • Total time: 1 hour

Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground meat and add vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the marinara sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version.

  • Extra Cheese: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella on top of the meat sauce, and even sprinkle some Parmesan cheese for extra cheesiness.

  • Spicy Spaghetti Pie: For a spicier kick, stir in some red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños into the meat sauce or sprinkle on top.

  • Add Meatballs: If you prefer meatballs, you can add cooked meatballs on top of the sauce before baking for a more substantial dish.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Leftover Spaghetti Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

  • Freezing: Spaghetti Pie can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the pie, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To freeze after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

  • Reheating: To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the whole pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for the pie?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or ziti. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente and will hold up well in the pie.

Can I use a store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, using store-bought marinara sauce is perfectly fine for this recipe. Just choose a high-quality brand that you enjoy, or use homemade marinara sauce if you prefer.

How do I prevent the spaghetti crust from falling apart?

Be sure to toss the cooked spaghetti in the egg and cheese mixture thoroughly to help bind the noodles together. Press the spaghetti into the baking dish firmly to form a solid “crust” before adding the sauce.

Can I make Spaghetti Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve.

Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Yes! You can add ingredients like olives, pepperoni, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the meat sauce for added flavor. Feel free to get creative!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Make sure to also use a gluten-free marinara sauce and check any other ingredients for gluten.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the best elements of a classic spaghetti dinner in a fun and creative way. With its cheesy spaghetti “crust,” savory meat sauce, and bubbling layer of cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, making ahead, or enjoying as leftovers. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, Spaghetti Pie is a delicious, satisfying meal that everyone will love!


Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spaghetti Pie

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Spaghetti Pie is a creative twist on classic spaghetti, transforming it into a hearty, comforting pie. With a pasta “crust” made from spaghetti, eggs, and cheese, topped with savory meat sauce and bubbling cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Pie:

  • 12 oz spaghetti

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the Spaghetti:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

    • Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  • Make the Meat Sauce:

    • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, remove any excess fat.

    • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until soft.

    • Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Prepare the Spaghetti Pie Base:

    • In a large bowl, beat the eggs and stir in ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Season with salt and pepper.

    • Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg and cheese mixture, tossing to coat the noodles evenly.

  • Assemble the Spaghetti Pie:

    • Spread the cheesy spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing gently to form a “crust” on the bottom and sides of the dish.

    • Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti crust, spreading it evenly.

    • Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.

  • Bake the Pie:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

    • For a crispier crust, broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning.

  • Serve:

    • Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

    • Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.


Notes

Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the marinara sauce for a vegetarian version.Extra Cheese: Add an extra layer of shredded mozzarella on top of the meat sauce for extra cheesiness.Spicy Spaghetti Pie: For more heat, stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce.Add Meatballs: Top the sauce with cooked meatballs before baking for a heartier dish.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star