Spaghetti Pie
Indulge in the savory flavors of spaghetti pie, a delightful dish that transforms traditional pasta into a hearty, baked masterpiece. This unique recipe combines spaghetti with rich tomato sauce, cheese, and spices, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy dinner, this spaghetti pie is sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the pie) contains approximately 450 calories, 18g protein, 15g fat, 60g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture and mix well.
8. Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased pie dish.
9. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
10. Add the remaining spaghetti mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option or use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. You can also add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Spaghetti pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the spaghetti can make it mushy.
- Not greasing the pie dish may cause sticking.
- Skipping the resting time after baking can lead to a messy slice.
- Using too much sauce can make the pie soggy.
- Not letting the pie cool slightly before serving can cause it to fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Consider adding cooked ground meat for a heartier pie.
- Use fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile.
- Try adding a layer of ricotta for creaminess.
FAQs
Can I make spaghetti pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
What is the best way to reheat spaghetti pie?
The best way to reheat spaghetti pie is in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This helps maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, to create a unique version of spaghetti pie.
Is spaghetti pie suitable for freezing?
Yes, spaghetti pie can be frozen. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
How can I make spaghetti pie vegetarian?
You can make spaghetti pie vegetarian by omitting any meat and adding extra vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Spaghetti pie is a delightful and versatile dish that brings a comforting twist to your pasta routine. With its layers of flavor and simple preparation, it’s a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this delicious recipe, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients!
Spaghetti Pie
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture and mix well.
- Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased pie dish.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.
