Cheesy Spaghetti Pie Savory and Simple Recipe

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Looking for a fun and tasty twist on dinner? Let me introduce you to Cheesy Spaghetti Pie! This dish combines the comfort of spaghetti with the fun of a pie, making it perfect for any meal. In this recipe, I’ll guide you through simple steps to create a warm and cheesy delight that will have your family asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this savory creation!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic: This cheesy spaghetti pie is the epitome of comfort food, combining familiar flavors and textures that warm the soul.
2. Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
3. Customizable: You can easily adapt the fillings and toppings to suit your personal tastes, whether adding vegetables or different cheeses.
4. Great for Leftovers: This recipe is excellent for meal prep, as it holds up well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Cheesy Spaghetti Pie

– 8 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese

– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

The key ingredients in Cheesy Spaghetti Pie create a rich and creamy dish. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella brings a lovely texture. The eggs help bind the mixture, keeping it together when baked. Using fresh garlic and onion adds depth to the flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

– Cooked ground beef or sausage

– Sliced olives

– Chopped bell peppers

– Spinach or other leafy greens

– Different herbs like thyme or oregano

You can add your favorite ingredients to make this dish your own. Adding meat makes it heartier, while veggies can add color and nutrition. Mix it up based on what you love or have on hand.

Recommended Brands or Type of Cheese

– Whole milk ricotta for creaminess

– Whole milk or part-skim mozzarella for melting

– Grated Parmesan for sharp flavor

Using high-quality cheese makes a big difference in taste. Look for fresh cheese at your local store. Brands that focus on quality will give you the best results in this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Ingredients

First, I set my oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps it get hot for baking. I gather all my ingredients on the counter. It makes cooking easier when I have everything in sight.

Sautéing the Onion and Garlic

Next, I grab a large skillet and add the olive oil. I turn the heat to medium. I toss in the finely chopped onion and stir it for about 3-4 minutes. The onion should turn soft and clear. Then, I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The smell is amazing! After that, I take the skillet off the heat and set it aside.

Mixing the Spaghetti Filling

In a big mixing bowl, I combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy ricotta cheese. I add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. Next, I pour in the lightly beaten eggs. I also add the sautéed onion and garlic mix, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I use a spatula to mix everything until it’s well blended.

Assembling the Pie

Now it’s time to prepare the baking dish. I lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with non-stick spray or olive oil. I carefully pour the spaghetti mixture into the dish. With my spatula, I spread it out evenly.

Baking the Spaghetti Pie

I sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Then, I cover it with a layer of marinara sauce. I make sure to cover everything well. I place the pie dish in the oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. I know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

After baking, I take the spaghetti pie out of the oven. I let it cool for about 5 minutes. This makes slicing easier. Before serving, I add fresh basil leaves on top for a nice touch. Then, I slice it into wedges and serve warm. It looks and tastes so good!

Tips & Tricks

Tips for Perfectly Baked Spaghetti Pie

– Use al dente spaghetti. This helps keep the texture firm during baking.

– Mix well. Ensure all ingredients blend evenly for a tasty bite.

– Preheat your oven. A hot oven ensures the cheese melts perfectly.

– Let it cool. Cooling for a few minutes helps the pie set for easy slicing.

– Top with fresh herbs. Basil adds a nice touch of flavor and color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the pasta. This can make the pie too soft. Stick to al dente.

– Skipping the cooling step. Slicing too soon can lead to a messy pie.

– Not greasing the dish. This can cause sticking and make serving tricky.

– Using too much sauce. Too much marinara can make the pie soggy.

– Under-seasoning. Always taste before baking. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

– Gluten-free pasta: Use gluten-free spaghetti if you need a gluten-free option.

– Dairy-free cheese: Swap regular cheese for dairy-free versions for lactose intolerance.

– Egg substitute: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacement.

– Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

– Lean meats: Ground turkey or chicken can be mixed in for added protein.

Variations

Vegetarian Cheesy Spaghetti Pie

For a vegetarian twist, skip the meat and add veggies. You can use mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Sauté the veggies with the onion and garlic for extra flavor. Mix them into your spaghetti filling. This version is still creamy and cheesy, perfect for veggie lovers.

Meat Lover’s Version

If you love meat, this version is for you. Brown ground beef or sausage in the skillet before adding the onion and garlic. You can also mix in cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor. This pie becomes a hearty meal with all the meat goodness.

Gluten-Free Options

To make a gluten-free cheesy spaghetti pie, swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. There are many options, like rice or corn-based pasta. Just cook it al dente, like the regular kind. Follow the same steps to mix and bake. You’ll enjoy the same great taste without the gluten.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your cheesy spaghetti pie, let it cool. Then, place any leftovers in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover it well to keep out moisture and odors.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. If you choose the microwave, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overheating.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze cheesy spaghetti pie for later! Cut it into slices and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then, put the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What is Cheesy Spaghetti Pie?

Cheesy spaghetti pie is a fun dish that combines pasta and cheese. It looks like a pie but uses spaghetti as the base. You mix cooked spaghetti with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Then, you bake it until the cheese is bubbly and golden. It’s a hearty meal that everyone loves.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare cheesy spaghetti pie ahead of time. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step. Cover the pie and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge. It will still taste great!

How can I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the pie moist and warm. You can also use the microwave if you prefer. Just heat in short bursts.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like. Penne or rigatoni work well. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds its shape. The flavor will still be amazing, no matter the pasta shape.

What other toppings work well?

You can get creative with toppings! Try adding cooked meats like ground beef or sausage. Vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can also add flavor. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Just remember to keep it balanced with the cheese.

In this blog post, I shared how to make a delicious cheesy spaghetti pie. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. I also included variations for different diets and ways to store leftovers.

Cheesy spaghetti pie is a fun dish to make and share. With some simple changes, you can match it to your taste. Enjoy this dish with family or friends, and get creative with your own twist

Cheesy Spaghetti Pie

A delicious and comforting spaghetti pie filled with cheesy goodness and topped with marinara sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 8 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
• to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce (for topping)
• to taste Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.
• In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 1 minute or until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten eggs, the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spatula to mix everything together until well combined and evenly distributed.
• Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or round baking dish with non-stick spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Carefully pour the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with the spatula.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti pie. Follow this with a generous layer of marinara sauce, making sure to cover the cheese and pasta mixture completely.
• Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden brown on top.
• Once baked, carefully remove the spaghetti pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This will make slicing easier and help everything set.
• Before serving, add a handful of fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and flavor. Slice into wedges and serve warm.

Notes

Serve the slices on individual plates, drizzled with extra marinara sauce and garnished with additional basil leaves for an elegant touch.

Keyword baked, cheese, Italian, pie, spaghetti

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