Spaghetti pie is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering a fun and creative way to enjoy spaghetti. This hearty pie is encased in a buttery crust and filled with a flavorful mixture of spaghetti, cheese, and savory tomato sauce. Perfect for gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests with its unique presentation and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is 20 minutes, and cooking time is 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 40g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein. This is a satisfying meal option for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Cook 8 ounces of spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. 3. In a skillet, sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until translucent. 4. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. 5. In a bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with 2 beaten eggs and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 6. Press the spaghetti mixture into a greased pie dish to form the crust. 7. Pour the tomato mixture over the spaghetti crust. 8. Top with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. 9. Bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly. 10. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular spaghetti with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Additionally, feel free to use different cheeses like cheddar or feta to customize the flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Serve your spaghetti pie with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the spaghetti can lead to a mushy crust.
- Not allowing the pie to cool before slicing can make it fall apart.
- Using too much sauce can make the pie soggy.
- Forgetting to grease the pie dish may cause sticking.
- Not seasoning the ingredients properly can result in bland flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different herbs for added flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer taste.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make spaghetti pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare spaghetti pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
What can I use instead of a pie crust?
You can use a layer of phyllo pastry or puff pastry for a lighter crust option, or simply bake the spaghetti without a crust for a different texture.
Is spaghetti pie suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! You can make it vegetarian by omitting any meat and adding more vegetables or using vegetable-based sauces.
Can I freeze spaghetti pie?
Yes, spaghetti pie can be frozen before or after baking. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
What type of cheese works best?
A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan works well, but feel free to mix in any cheese you love, such as ricotta or goat cheese for variety.
Conclusion
Spaghetti pie is a delightful and unique dish that transforms traditional pasta into a fun and hearty meal. It’s perfect for gatherings, easy to customize, and makes for great leftovers. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Spaghetti Pie
Ingredients
- 8 oz. spaghetti
- 1 diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 beaten eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Italian herbs to taste
- Butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with the beaten eggs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Press the spaghetti mixture into a greased pie dish to form the crust.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the spaghetti crust.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
