Spaghetti Pizza Recipe

A Delicious Fusion of Two Comfort Food Favorites

Introduction

If you love pizza and you love pasta, then this Spaghetti Pizza recipe is about to become your new favorite meal! Combining the best of both worlds, this dish transforms simple pantry staples into a cheesy, savory delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or potluck dinners. Plus, it’s kid-friendly and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Spaghetti Pizza, including ingredient swaps, storage tips, and serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 (8-ounce) package spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 (16-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon dried basil
  • 4 ounces pepperoni sausage, sliced

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Cooking spray
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the broken spaghetti pieces and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Make the Pasta Base

In a large bowl, mix ½ cup mozzarella cheese, milk, egg, salt, and garlic salt. Add the drained spaghetti and mix well to coat. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Pre-Bake the Crust

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This helps the spaghetti set into a crust-like base.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Spread the spaghetti sauce evenly over the spaghetti base. Sprinkle with oregano and basil, then add the remaining 1 ½ cups of mozzarella on top. Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before cutting.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or bacon.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the pepperoni for bell peppers, mushrooms, or black olives.
  • Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before baking.
  • Cheese Lovers: Use a mix of mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for an allergy-friendly version.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments until hot.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Spaghetti Pizza with:

  • Garlic Bread: For an extra carb-loaded treat.
  • Caesar Salad: To balance the richness of the dish.
  • Wine Pairing: A light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc.

FAQ

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep everything up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake when ready.

2. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano and ½ tablespoon of fresh basil for enhanced flavor.

3. What can I use instead of mozzarella?

Try cheddar, provolone, or a mix of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?

Yes, whole wheat spaghetti works just as well and adds a boost of fiber.

5. How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the pasta well and bake the base long enough to set before adding the sauce and toppings.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Pizza is the ultimate comfort food mash-up that’s easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a new meal-prep favorite, this recipe is sure to impress.

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy meal ideas. Happy cooking! 🍕🍝

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