If you’re looking to put a fun twist on classic pasta night, Traditional Spaghetti Pie might just become your new favorite. Imagine all the comforting flavors of a spaghetti dinner, but with a crispy, cheesy crust that makes each bite irresistible.
Spaghetti is the backbone of this dish, providing the structure needed to form the 'pie.' Olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics and adds a touch of richness. Onion and garlic bring depth and warmth. The ground beef offers a hearty, savory base, while the marinara sauce ties everything together with a tangy, herby punch.
Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and helps bind the pie. Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating that desired gooey top, and Parmesan cheese lends a sharp, nutty flavor. Eggs are the binding agents here, ensuring the pie holds its shape. Oregano, salt, and black pepper season the dish perfectly, while fresh basil leaves add a bright finish.
This Spaghetti Pie is a meal on its own, but a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully to balance the richness. A side of roasted vegetables or garlic bread would also complement the flavors nicely.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your oven is ready to go when your pie is assembled. Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside. While the pasta is cooking, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re translucent and fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s browned all over, drain off any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
While the sauce simmers, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the ricotta cheese, one cup of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked spaghetti and the beef mixture to the cheese mixture in the bowl. Stir until the spaghetti is evenly coated. Grease a 9-inch pie dish, then transfer the spaghetti mixture into it, smoothing out the top with a spoon or spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the pie. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the pie cool for a few minutes, allowing it to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving warm.
Share