If you are craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Spaghetti Pie Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Imagine al dente spaghetti forming a golden crust, filled with creamy cottage cheese, rich meat sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella – every bite delivers layers of flavor and texture that dance together beautifully. It’s a perfect family-friendly dish that combines the best of pasta and casserole in a fun, sliceable form that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that each add their own special touch. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy cheese layers and fragrant Italian seasoning, every element contributes to the perfect balance of taste and texture in this Spaghetti Pie Recipe.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The star pasta that forms the sturdy and tasty crust for the pie.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and keeps the spaghetti glossy and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs (beaten): Act as the binding agent to hold the pasta crust together.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the crust with sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Creates a creamy, mild layer that balances the meat sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, giving that irresistible cheesy finish.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides hearty protein and savory flavor in the meat sauce.
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce: Brings tangy tomato richness to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herb boost that ties all flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of subtle heat.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish with fresh color and flavor.
How to Make Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Crust
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking. Cook the spaghetti just until al dente according to package instructions – you want it tender but still with a perfect bite. Once drained, toss the warm spaghetti with butter so it gets beautifully glossy and flavorful. Next, mix in the beaten eggs and grated Parmesan cheese; these help bind the strands together for the crust. Press this mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish evenly, shaping the base and sides for your pie shell. This pasta crust is the delicious foundation of the recipe!
Step 2: Add the Cottage Cheese Layer
Spread the cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust. This creamy layer adds moisture and a gentle tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat sauce to come. It also helps create those lovely distinct layers inside the pie that make it so special.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Once the meat is cooked through, drain off any excess fat to keep the pie from becoming greasy. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly – this rich filling will be the hearty heart of your Spaghetti Pie Recipe.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the fragrant meat sauce evenly over the cottage cheese layer, smoothing it out to cover completely. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for that melty, golden finish everyone loves. Bake the assembled pie in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and just starting to turn golden. Allow the pie to cool for 5 minutes before slicing – this resting time helps it set, making serving a breeze.
How to Serve Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of green that looks beautiful and adds a fresh, herbal note to each slice. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for some silky richness.
Side Dishes
This Spaghetti Pie Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pie. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus also complement the meal by adding color, texture, and extra nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering or potluck, serve the pie in individual ramekins or muffin tins for cute, personal-sized portions that are easy to handle. You could also layer leftover spaghetti pie inside a cupcake liner and top with some fresh basil leaves for an elegant appetizer twist that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover spaghetti pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days without losing any of its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole pie or individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave single slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes if you’re short on time.
FAQs
Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?
Absolutely! Ricotta makes a fantastic, creamy substitute that works just as well in the layered filling and adds a slightly different texture and mild flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, just swap out the ground beef or sausage for your favorite sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, and increase the seasoning accordingly to maintain robust flavor.
What type of pasta sauce works best?
A simple marinara or tomato-based pasta sauce is ideal since it melds perfectly with the meat and cheeses, bringing bright acidity and herbaceous notes without overpowering the other layers.
Can I prepare the pie ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the pie up to a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve for convenience and great flavor.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! The gentle flavors, cheesy layers, and familiar pasta make it a hit with kids, while the baked format makes serving neat and fun.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something heartwarming about this Spaghetti Pie Recipe that makes it a keeper in any home cook’s repertoire. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to serve guests, blending familiar flavors into a new, exciting form. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen!
Print
Spaghetti Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Description
This delicious Spaghetti Pie is a comforting baked pasta dish featuring a crispy spaghetti crust layered with cottage cheese and a savory meat sauce, topped with melted mozzarella. Perfect for a family-friendly dinner, it combines the heartiness of spaghetti with the convenience of a casserole.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Crust
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cheese Layer
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and immediately toss with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Make Spaghetti Crust: In a large bowl, combine the warm spaghetti, beaten eggs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly, then press this mixture firmly into a greased 9-inch pie dish to create the crust.
- Add Cottage Cheese Layer: Spread 1 cup of cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust to form a creamy middle layer.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Assemble Pie: Spoon the simmered meat sauce evenly over the cottage cheese layer. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top to form a cheesy topping.
- Bake: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if preferred for a smoother texture.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat sauce to increase the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
