Spaghetti Pie | The Ultimate Comfort Classic

Introduction
Spaghetti pie is a delicious way to turn basic pantry staples into a warm, satisfying meal. With layers of seasoned beef, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese baked into a spaghetti “crust,” this dish feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals ahead, this recipe delivers dependable flavor and structure every time. Here’s how to make it from scratch with easy-to-follow steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked spaghetti pie brings comfort food to a new level. It combines a cheesy, hearty filling with a pasta-based crust that holds its shape when sliced. Perfect for busy nights or feeding a group, it’s easy to prepare in advance and freezer-friendly. You’ll love how well the ingredients come together to form a balanced, flavorful dish that feels familiar but fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient has a specific role that helps build texture, flavor, and cohesion.

• Spaghetti (6 ounces, uncooked): This forms the crust that holds the pie together.
• Ground beef (1 pound, 90% lean): Adds a meaty, savory element to the filling.
• Chopped onion (1/2 cup): Provides natural sweetness and enhances the meat mixture.
• Chopped green bell pepper (1/4 cup): Offers a pop of color and slight bitterness.
• Canned diced tomatoes (1 cup, with juice): Brings moisture and fresh tomato flavor.
• Tomato paste (6 ounces): Intensifies the tomato base and thickens the sauce.
• Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a signature Italian herb note.
• Salt (3/4 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Contributes a deep, savory layer.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds mild heat and balance.
• Sugar (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the acidity in the tomato-based sauce.
• Egg whites (2 large, lightly beaten): Helps bind the spaghetti crust so it holds when sliced.
• Butter (1 tablespoon, melted): Adds richness and a golden finish to the crust.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Boosts flavor in the crust and adds a cheesy base.
• Cottage cheese (1 cup, 2%): Offers creaminess and lightness to the middle layer.
• Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded, part-skim): Creates a gooey, melty topping.

How to Make Spaghetti Pie
This baked spaghetti pie starts with cooking the noodles and combining them with eggs, butter, and Parmesan to create a crust. A savory meat sauce is cooked separately, then layered over cottage cheese in the crust and baked until golden. Topped with mozzarella, it finishes as a bubbling, crave-worthy dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil the spaghetti until just tender, then drain and let it cool slightly.
2. Brown the Beef Mixture
   Heat a skillet over medium and add ground beef, onion, and green pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off excess fat.
3. Make the Sauce
   Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and sugar to the cooked beef. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Mix the Pasta Crust
   In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and stir to combine until evenly coated.
5. Shape the Crust
   Grease a deep 9-inch pie dish. Press the spaghetti mixture into the bottom and up the sides to form a crust.
6. Add the Cheese Layer
   Spread cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust. This creates a creamy buffer between the pasta and meat.
7. Top with Meat Sauce
   Spoon the meat mixture over the cheese and smooth it into an even layer.
8. Bake the Pie
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the assembled pie uncovered for 20 minutes.
9. Add Mozzarella and Finish Baking
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the pie and return it to the oven for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
10. Cool Before Serving
    Allow the pie to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This step helps everything set so the slices come out clean and firm.

Helpful Tips

• Use a deep pie dish to hold all the layers without spilling.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente so it maintains structure after baking.
• Waiting a few minutes after baking before cutting ensures the pie holds together.
• For a saucier pie, add a bit of marinara or tomato sauce to the beef mixture.

Details

• Flavor: A classic blend of tomato, cheese, beef, and herbs
• Texture: Crunchy crust, creamy center, and melted cheese topping
• Occasion: Great for family meals, casual gatherings, or freezer prep
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Notes
You can easily change this up by substituting ricotta for cottage cheese or using Italian sausage instead of ground beef. If you prefer more veggies, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the meat mixture. To make it freezer-friendly, let it cool fully before wrapping and freezing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	348
Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	52mg
Sodium	690mg
Carbohydrates	33g
Sugars	9g
Fiber	4g
Protein	29g

Frequently Asked Questions

What is spaghetti pie made of?
It typically features cooked spaghetti, eggs, Parmesan, cottage cheese or ricotta, ground meat, tomato sauce, and mozzarella. These components are layered in a pie dish and baked.

Can spaghetti pie be made ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble it ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

How do you keep spaghetti pie from falling apart?
Mixing the pasta with egg whites and letting the pie cool briefly before slicing both help the dish hold its shape.

Can spaghetti pie be frozen after baking?
Yes. Once cooled, wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to two months. Reheat in the oven until fully warmed through.

Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers in a covered dish for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. For freezing, wrap the pie or slices in foil or plastic wrap. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven.

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Conclusion
Spaghetti pie is a clever way to enjoy familiar ingredients in a new format. It’s hearty, flavorful, and simple to prepare, making it a top pick for weeknight meals or potlucks. From the crispy pasta crust to the cheesy topping, every bite is full of comfort. Try this recipe once, and it’s sure to become a household favorite.

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