Spaghetti pie is a hearty, comforting casserole that transforms your favorite pasta dish into a sliceable, pie-shaped meal. Believed to have Italian-American roots, this dish is a popular way to use up leftover spaghetti in a fun and creative form. It combines the best of both worlds — the cozy familiarity of baked pasta and the structure of a savory pie.
What makes spaghetti pie so special is the contrast of textures: the crispy, golden crust formed by baked noodles, the rich, savory meat sauce, and the creamy, cheesy center. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Pasta Base:
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8 oz (about 225g) spaghetti, cooked and drained
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp salt
For the Meat Sauce:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 lb (225g) ground beef or Italian sausage
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1 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
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1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp dried basil
For the Topping:
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1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Substitutions:
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free spaghetti.
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
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Dairy-free: Use vegan cheeses and omit ricotta or use tofu-based alternatives.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan. -
Make the Spaghetti Crust
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In a mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with beaten eggs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt.
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Press the mixture into the pie dish to form a crust along the bottom and sides.
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Prepare the Meat Sauce
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
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Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up while cooking. Cook until browned.
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Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
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Assemble the Layers
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Spread the ricotta mixture (ricotta, Parmesan, basil) over the spaghetti crust.
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Pour the meat sauce evenly over the cheese layer.
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Top with shredded mozzarella.
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Bake
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Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Crust Tips: Press the pasta down firmly to help the crust hold together better when sliced.
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Prevent Soggy Base: Ensure meat sauce is not too watery—let it simmer until thick.
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Even Cheese Melting: Shred your own mozzarella for better melt and texture.
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Slice Cleanly: Use a serrated knife and let the pie rest before cutting.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils instead of meat.
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Low-Carb Alternative: Use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash in place of pasta.
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Regional Flavors: Add Cajun spices, pesto, or Mexican-style seasonings for a fusion twist.
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Mini Spaghetti Pies: Use muffin tins for individual servings — perfect for parties or meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve spaghetti pie with:
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A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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Garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf
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A glass of red wine (Chianti or Zinfandel) or sparkling water with lemon
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Garnish with: Fresh basil, parsley, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 6 servings)
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Calories: ~420
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Protein: ~22g
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Carbohydrates: ~32g
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Fat: ~24g
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Fiber: ~3g
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Sodium: ~550mg
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make spaghetti pie ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze slices individually.
Q: How do I reheat spaghetti pie?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
Q: What if my crust falls apart?
A: Make sure to press the spaghetti mixture firmly and bake until set. Let it rest before slicing.
Closing Thoughts
Spaghetti pie is a delightful way to reinvent pasta night with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try and put your own spin on it — and don’t forget to share your results or questions in the comments!
