A Comforting Twist on Classic Italian Flavors

If you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s equal parts nostalgic and creative, look no further than this Spaghetti Pie. Perfectly cooked pasta forms the base for a hearty beef and ricotta filling, all topped with bubbling mozzarella. It’s a dish that brings comfort food to the next level with its fun presentation and rich, familiar flavors.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing a cozy date-night meal, or need something crowd-pleasing for a potluck, this dish has universal appeal. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Pie

Spaghetti Pie is the best of all culinary worlds—it combines the beloved taste of spaghetti with the structure of a casserole and the fun form of a pie. The crust made from buttery noodles and Parmesan crisps up beautifully, the ricotta layer adds creaminess and depth, and the savory beef marinara filling rounds everything out.

This recipe is:

Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters
Freezer-friendly for meal prep or make-ahead meals
Easily customizable with your favorite cheeses or sauces
A one-dish wonder that’s easy to serve and even easier to clean up

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this family favorite, gather the following:

8 ounces spaghetti noodles
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 large egg
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 ounces ricotta cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 pound lean ground beef
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

9-inch pie dish
Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Skillet (for browning meat)
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Strainer or colander
Oven mitts

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.

2. Make the Spaghetti Crust

In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with melted butter. Stir in the beaten egg and grated Parmesan cheese. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pie dish and press it down to form a crust that goes up the sides of the dish.

3. Add the Ricotta Layer

In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning. Spread this evenly over the spaghetti crust. This creamy layer adds a wonderful texture and balances the rich meat sauce.

4. Prepare the Beef Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

5. Assemble and Bake

Spoon the meat sauce over the ricotta layer. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

6. Rest and Serve

Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Use a springform pan for easier removal and a cleaner presentation.
Boost the crust by adding breadcrumbs or crushed garlic to the spaghetti mixture.
Go vegetarian by swapping the beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Add veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the meat sauce for extra nutrients.
Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the marinara or using spicy Italian sausage instead of beef.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Spaghetti Pie stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

To refrigerate: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes, or bake in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

Perfect Pairings

Elevate your meal with these delicious pairing ideas:

Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the pie.
Garlic Bread: A crunchy side for dipping into any extra marinara.
Wine Pairing: Opt for a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Zinfandel.
Kid-friendly Drink: Serve with sparkling grape juice or Italian soda for a fun twist.

Recipe Variations

Classic Baked Ziti Pie

Substitute penne or ziti for the spaghetti and follow the same steps. The ridges in the pasta hold onto the sauce beautifully.

White Spaghetti Pie

Skip the marinara and use Alfredo sauce for a creamy, indulgent alternative. Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for protein.

Gluten-Free Spaghetti Pie

Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti and make sure your marinara sauce is gluten-free certified.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire pie up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can substitute cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and a bit of sour cream for a similar creamy texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Freeze individual slices for quick lunches, or the whole pie for a future family dinner. Wrap well and label with the date.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a lean and tasty substitute. Season well to maintain rich flavor.

How do I keep the spaghetti crust from sticking?

Make sure to grease the pie dish well, and allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing—it will hold together better and release more easily.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Pie is more than just a fun dinner idea—it’s a cozy, satisfying dish that brings joy to the table. Its layered flavors, ease of preparation, and versatility make it a staple in any kitchen.

If you tried this recipe and loved it, be sure to share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more creative comfort food recipes, tips, and kitchen inspiration. Happy cooking! 🍝✨