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Recipe for Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Pie
Introduction
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Pie combines the comfort of pasta with the heartiness of a meaty casserole. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day, this spaghetti pie is a versatile dish that brings the family together around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- For the Pasta Base:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Deep pie dish or springform pan
- Mixing bowls
Method
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set aside.
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, and garlic powder until the pasta is well coated.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Press the spaghetti mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a greased deep pie dish or springform pan, creating a “crust”.
- Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the spaghetti crust.
- Top with the meat sauce, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Pie:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Pie is a scrumptious dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It combines classic Italian flavors with the comforting structure of a pie, making it a standout dish for dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal. With layers of pasta, meat, and melted cheese, this pie is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Enjoy the melding of textures and flavors that this unique pasta pie offers!
