Ultimate Spaghetti Pie: Number One Pasta Bake

If you’re looking to shake up your traditional pasta night, the Ultimate Spaghetti Pie is the number one pasta bake you didn’t know you needed! This dish takes the comfort of classic spaghetti and transforms it into a hearty, satisfying casserole. With a crispy, golden spaghetti “crust” that holds layers of creamy ricotta, savory marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and optional savory meat, it’s a dish that will win over anyone at the table.

The magic of this ultimate pasta bake lies in how each layer complements the next, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. The golden spaghetti “crust” serves as the perfect base, while the creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella melt into the rich marinara sauce. And if you’re a fan of hearty meals, you can easily add ground beef or Italian sausage for extra flavor.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to something special, the Ultimate Spaghetti Pie is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into how to make this  pasta bake that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!

Let’s walk through the process to create this crowd-pleasing dish, step-by-step!

Ingredients

For the Pie:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Filling:

• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ pound cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

For the Pie

1. Spaghetti (1 pound)
   • Spaghetti serves as the base of this pie, providing texture and structure. It’s a source of carbohydrates, which provide energy. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as alternatives for added nutritional benefits.
   • Calories: 200-220 kcal (per 2 oz serving)
   • Nutritional Benefits: High in carbohydrates, low in fat and protein. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can offer more fiber.
2. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
   • Olive oil is a healthy fat that helps to add flavor and moisture to the dish. It also helps cook the spaghetti and prevent it from sticking.
   • Calories: 240 kcal (for 2 tablespoons)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants.
3. Eggs (3 large, beaten)
   • Eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the spaghetti crust, helping bind the pasta together.
   • Calories: 70 kcal (per egg)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of high-quality protein, vitamins A, D, E, and B12, as well as minerals like selenium and choline.
4. Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
   • Adds a savory, umami flavor to the crust while contributing a boost of protein and calcium.
   • Calories: 210 kcal (for ½ cup)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Rich in calcium, protein, and phosphorus, important for bone health.

For the Filling

1. Marinara Sauce (1½ cups)
   • A flavorful tomato-based sauce, often enriched with herbs like basil and oregano. This sauce adds tangy flavor and moisture to the filling.
   • Calories: 70-100 kcal (per ½ cup)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health. Contains vitamins A and C from tomatoes.
2. Ricotta Cheese (1½ cups)
   • A creamy, mild cheese that helps balance the acidity of the marinara sauce and adds richness to the filling.
   • Calories: 300 kcal (for 1½ cups)
   • Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, calcium, and vitamin A, important for muscle health and bone strength.
3. Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
   • Mozzarella provides a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture that completes the pie, helping to create that perfect cheesy bite.
   • Calories: 320 kcal (for 2 cups)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Rich in protein and calcium, which supports bone health, and helps with muscle recovery and repair.
4. Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (½ pound, cooked – optional)
   • Adds a savory and meaty layer to the pie for those who want a heartier dish. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used as leaner alternatives.
   • Calories: 200 kcal (for ½ cup of ground beef, cooked)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Good source of protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc, especially if using lean ground beef.

Optional Garnishes

1. Salt and Pepper
   • These basic seasonings enhance the flavors of the dish. Use sparingly to avoid excessive sodium intake.
   • Calories: None (negligible)
   • Nutritional Benefits: Essential for flavor, but high amounts of salt should be avoided due to its impact on blood pressure.
2. Fresh Basil
   • Basil adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and meat layers.
   • Calories: Negligible
   • Nutritional Benefits: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins A and K, which support the immune system and bone health.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a springform pan to ensure the pie doesn’t stick.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, as per the package instructions.
• Drain the pasta and toss it with olive oil to prevent it from sticking. Let it cool for a few minutes.

3. Create the Spaghetti Crust

• In a large bowl, whisk the beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
• Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until each strand is coated in the egg mixture.
• Press the spaghetti mixture firmly into your greased pie dish, creating a solid “crust” that will hold all the layers together.

4. Assemble the Layers

• Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust, creating a smooth layer.
• If you’re using ground beef or Italian sausage, layer it over the ricotta.
• Pour the marinara sauce over the meat layer, spreading it out evenly.
• Finish by sprinkling the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, ensuring that it covers the entire pie.

5. Bake the Pie

• Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

6. Let It Cool and Serve

• Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to allow the layers to set.
• Slice the pie into wedges, garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely and swap it out for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a veggie-packed version that’s just as satisfying.
• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the pie ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven for an easy, stress-free meal.
• Customize the Sauce: While marinara is classic, you can switch it up! Try using Alfredo sauce or a pesto base for a completely different flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Based on a 6-8 slice pie:

• Calories: ~450 kcal per serving (6-8 servings)
• Protein: ~25g per serving
• Fat: ~25g per serving
• Carbohydrates: ~30g per serving
• Fiber: ~2g per serving
• Sodium: ~600mg per serving

Make It Your Own

Add More Veggies: For an extra healthy touch, you can sneak in more vegetables. Sauté zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant and layer them between the cheese for a burst of color and nutrition.

Cheese Lovers’ Dream: If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to sprinkle some Parmesan or cheddar on top of the mozzarella for added flavor and depth.

Try a Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta if you’re looking to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Different Meats: Swap ground beef or Italian sausage for chicken sausage, turkey, or even bacon for a more unique twist.

Add Heat: For spice lovers, sprinkle red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce to give the pie an extra kick.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the pie ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli for a fun twist.

Q: Is there a way to make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Q: Can I freeze Spaghetti Pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Simply bake the pie, allow it to cool, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

Q: What other sauces can I use for the pie?
A: While marinara is classic, you can switch things up with Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a cream-based sauce for a different flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spaghetti Pie is a showstopper on the dinner table. The crispy pasta crust holds layers of creamy cheese and rich marinara sauce, making every bite a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers that reheat beautifully, this dish will be a family favorite in no time.

Try it out tonight and bring some Italian-inspired comfort to your plate!