If you’re dreaming of a cozy, comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug, the Spaghetti Pie Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful twist on traditional pasta brings all your favorite flavors into one gorgeous, sliceable pie that’s perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends. Think of a golden, cheesy crust made from spaghetti, creamy layers of ricotta or cottage cheese, a flavorful meat and marinara sauce, topped with bubbly mozzarella—it’s pasta elevated to pie perfection. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight meal or a dish that makes any occasion special, this Spaghetti Pie Recipe will become a staple in your recipe box.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making this dish both simple and spectacular. Each item plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of texture, taste, and color that makes the Spaghetti Pie Recipe such a crowd-pleaser.
- 6 oz cooked spaghetti: Use just under half a box, cooked al dente for the best texture that holds in the pie crust.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the spaghetti together so the crust stays intact when sliced.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch that enhances every bite.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted: Gives richness and helps keep the crust tender and golden.
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: Brings creaminess and a mild tang that contrasts beautifully with the sauce and meat.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melted mozzarella creates that irresistible gooey top layer and adds melty goodness inside.
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce: Choose your favorite jarred or homemade sauce for vibrant tomato flavor and color.
- ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional): Adds savory, meaty depth—feel free to skip for a veggie-friendly option.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle warmth and boosts the overall savoriness.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to tie all the flavors together deliciously.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens up the finished dish.
How to Make Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the beaten eggs, melted butter, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will act as your crust, so press it firmly into the bottom and sides of the pie dish, creating an even layer that forms the sturdy but tender base of your pie.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Cheese Layer
Spread an even layer of ricotta or cottage cheese over the spaghetti crust. This layer is what provides a dreamy creaminess that balances the heartiness of the meat sauce and keeps every bite smooth and luscious.
Step 3: Cook and Add the Meat Sauce
If you’re using ground beef or Italian sausage, brown it thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, drain off any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning directly with the cooked meat to meld all those savory flavors. Spread this meaty, herby sauce evenly over the ricotta layer, creating a rich, tomatoey filling.
Step 4: Top with Mozzarella and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining half of the mozzarella cheese generously over the meat sauce layer. Pop the pie into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. This step is what makes the Spaghetti Pie Recipe extra special—those beautifully melted, golden pockets of cheese on top.
Step 5: Let it Rest Then Serve
Once baked, allow your pie to sit for 5 to 10 minutes to settle. This resting period helps the layers firm up just enough so you can slice and serve beautiful, clean wedges without all the filling oozing out.
How to Serve Spaghetti Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top right before serving to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan for those who love an extra cheesy touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your spaghetti pie with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make excellent companions, soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual mini spaghetti pies in ramekins for a fun, personal touch at dinner parties. You can also layer different vegetables inside to create colorful variations or swap meats to offer a variety of flavors. This dish is flexible and perfect for adding your own flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover spaghetti pie keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a great next-day meal.
Freezing
This pie freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through or in the microwave for 2–3 minutes. Using the oven helps maintain the crust’s texture and keeps the cheese melty without getting rubbery.
FAQs
Can I make the Spaghetti Pie Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the meat and try sautéing vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini instead. These add wonderful texture and flavor while keeping the pie hearty and delicious.
What kind of cheese works best?
Ricotta or cottage cheese creates a smooth, creamy layer inside, while mozzarella on top melts perfectly for that golden, bubbly finish. Parmesan adds a salty depth to the crust. Sticking to these cheeses gives the best overall flavor and texture balance.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes! Just make sure to cook gluten-free spaghetti according to package instructions, then proceed with the recipe as usual. This meal adapts well to various dietary needs.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the pie a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This makes weeknight dinners super easy and stress-free.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
Let the pie rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes after baking; this helps the layers set and prevents fillings from spilling out. Using a sharp knife and gently wiping between slices also helps maintain clean cuts.
Final Thoughts
The Spaghetti Pie Recipe is a joyful celebration of classic Italian-American flavors brought together in a fun, unexpected way. It’s comforting, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying—perfect for cozy nights or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again. Give it a try and bring a little extra warmth and cheer to your dinner table!
Print
Spaghetti Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Spaghetti Pie recipe transforms classic spaghetti into a delicious baked pasta casserole with a crispy spaghetti crust, creamy ricotta layer, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella topping. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s an easy, kid-friendly Italian-American dish that combines comfort and convenience.
Ingredients
Spaghetti Crust
- 6 oz cooked spaghetti (about half a box)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ricotta Layer
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
Meat Sauce (optional)
- ½ pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pie Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking.
- Make Spaghetti Crust: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with beaten eggs, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss well to evenly coat the spaghetti. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish to form a crust layer.
- Add Ricotta Layer: Spread the ricotta or cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust, creating a smooth layer that will add creaminess.
- Prepare Meat Sauce (if using): Cook the ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked through, then drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the cooked meat until well combined.
- Assemble Meat Sauce Layer: Spread the meat sauce mixture evenly over the ricotta layer in the pie dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the assembled layers.
- Bake the Pie: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the spaghetti pie to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and substitute with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- This dish is great for meal prep and makes an excellent kid-friendly dinner option.
- You can use either ricotta or cottage cheese according to your preference for creaminess and texture.
- Ensure to press the spaghetti mixture well to create a sturdy crust that holds together when sliced.
