Description
A comforting and hearty Spaghetti Pie that layers tender spaghetti noodles with a flavorful meat sauce and three kinds of cheese. Baked to perfection in a deep-dish pie plate, this dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces thin spaghetti noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (16 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Cheese Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided: 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
- 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided: 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the pie plate: Spray a deep-dish pie plate with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- Cook the spaghetti noodles: Boil spaghetti noodles in a large pot of salted water until they are al dente according to package directions. Drain the noodles thoroughly.
- Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are softened. Drain excess grease.
- Simmer the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano to the beef mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Mix cheeses with noodles: While the noodles are hot, add the softened cream cheese and toss until it is nearly melted and well incorporated. Stir in ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese. Add 2 cups of the meat sauce and mix thoroughly with the cheese and noodles.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the cheesy noodle mixture into the prepared pie plate. Press the noodles evenly into the pie plate to form a compact layer.
- Add topping and bake: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and 1/4 cup Mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 20 minutes or until hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Top each slice with some additional meat sauce if desired. Enjoy your comforting spaghetti pie!
Notes
- To ensure the pie holds together well, press the noodle mixture firmly into the pie plate before baking.
- You can prepare the meat sauce a day ahead to save time on the day of cooking.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and grease.
- If you prefer, substitute mozzarella with provolone or a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
