There’s something about a cozy dish that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, isn’t there? Maybe it’s the comforting aroma that wafts through your kitchen or the delightful anticipation that builds as you take that first bite. One of my all-time favorite cozy dishes is Spaghetti Pie. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and it reminds me of nights spent gathered around the table with family, diving into something that feels familiar yet exciting. This dish has a special place in my heart because it’s not just delicious; it brings people together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Spaghetti Pie is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✨ Easy Weeknight Dinner: It comes together quickly, perfect for busy evenings.
• 💰 Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples makes it easy on the wallet.
• 🥰 Comforting Flavors: A mix of cheesy goodness and hearty spaghetti that warms the heart.
• 📦 Meal Prep Friendly: Great for make-ahead meals and leftovers.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your delicious Spaghetti Pie:

• 8 oz. of spaghetti (about half a box)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced (trust me, it adds a lovely punch!)
• Optional: chopped fresh herbs (like basil or parsley) for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Time to dive into the fun part! Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be saying hello to your own Spaghetti Pie masterpiece!

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). We want it nice and toasty for our pie.
2. Boil the spaghetti: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the spaghetti with eggs: In a large bowl, combine the warm spaghetti with the beaten eggs. This will help bind everything together—trust me, it’s magic!
4. Add the cheeses: Mix in the mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. You can never have too much cheese, right?
5. Prepare your baking dish: Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a round baking dish with olive oil or butter. Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the dish and pack it down gently. This creates that lovely “crust” we’re looking for.
6. Pour the marinara: Spread the marinara sauce evenly on top of the spaghetti mixture. Don’t be shy; this is where all the flavor lives!
7. Bake it: Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
8. Cool and serve: Let the Spaghetti Pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape better when you serve it. Top with fresh herbs if you like—such a great finishing touch!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Spaghetti Pie, let’s have a little fun with some variations!

• Spice it up: Add some cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a meaty twist. Taco seasoning in ground meat gives it a totally different vibe!
• Veggie Lovers: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This adds color and nutrition—plus, who doesn’t love a good veggie boost?
• Herbalicious: Experiment with different seasoning blends! Try adding crushed red pepper flakes for a kick or switch up the Italian seasoning with a dash of oregano and thyme.
• Cheesy Goodness: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or fontina for a richer flavor. More cheese is always a win!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve your Spaghetti Pie, think cozy. You can pair it with a fresh side salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness, or slice some crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover marinara. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent (and who isn’t?), a warm slice of pie alongside a nice glass of red wine is simply divine! And let’s not forget dessert—something sweet after this savory delight is the way to go. Maybe some chocolate mousse or a classic Tiramisu to round out your meal?

Storage Tips

Leftovers are where the magic continues! Here’s how to store your Spaghetti Pie without losing any of that deliciousness:

• Refrigerate: Allow your pie to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, slice the pie into portions and wrap each in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen Spaghetti Pie should last up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!

FAQs

Can I make Spaghetti Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep everything in advance and assemble it in the pie dish. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It can sit in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can! Whole wheat pasta will give it a nuttier flavor, and gluten-free pasta works just as well if you make sure to cook it al dente since it can become mushy if overcooked.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

No worries! Cottage cheese can be a great substitute, or you can make your own ricotta-style cheese using blended cream cheese and yogurt!

Can I add meat to Spaghetti Pie?

Definitely! Ground beef, turkey, or even some chopped grilled chicken work beautifully in this dish. Just cook the meat separately before adding it to the spaghetti mixture.

Is it okay to use jarred marinara sauce?

Of course! Jarred sauce is a convenient time-saver. Just make sure it’s a good quality brand you love. Homemade sauce is always great, but when you’re short on time, go with what works for you!

Conclusion

And there you have it—your very own Spaghetti Pie! I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this dish as I do. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring people together and create wonderful memories around the dinner table. I’d love to hear how your Spaghetti Pie turns out! Did you try a fun variation? Drop a comment below and share your experience. Happy cooking, my friend!