As a busy parent, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious and family-friendly but also perfect for leftovers and future meal planning. That’s why I want to share with you my go-to recipe for Spaghetti Pie, a dish that’s become a staple in our household. It’s a unique twist on classic spaghetti and meat sauce, baked into a savory pie that’s irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. Our son loved helping assemble the pie once everything was cooked, an added bonus for cooking with kids!
Pie dishes are not always the easiest to freeze, but this is a great option that you can bake in, but snap on the lid quickly to freeze or keep in the fridge.
Why Spaghetti Pie?
The beauty of Spaghetti Pie lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. By making a double batch, you can serve one for dinner and freeze the other for a future meal, saving time and effort on those hectic evenings. Its layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce combine to create a comforting, satisfying dish that’s a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce a fun, new way to enjoy pasta!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Ground Beef
- 1 pkg Spaghetti Spice Envelope
- 1 6 oz. can Tomato Paste
- 6 oz. Spaghetti
- 1/4 cup Butter, melted
- 1/3 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Cottage Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preparing the Meat Sauce
- Brown the Ground Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the spaghetti spice packet, tomato paste, and water (as directed on the spice packet). Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 to 20 minutes. This step infuses the beef with rich, savory flavors that are the heart of this dish.
Making the Spaghetti Crust
- Cook the Spaghetti: Follow the package instructions to cook the spaghetti. Once done, drain it well.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten eggs. This combination will help the spaghetti set into a crust-like consistency when baked.
- Form the Crust: Grease a 10-inch pie plate and press the spaghetti mixture onto the bottom and up the sides to form a crust. This crust is the base of your Spaghetti Pie and provides a delightful textural contrast to the filling.
Assembling the Pie
- Layer with Cottage Cheese: Spoon the cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust. The cottage cheese adds a creamy layer that pairs beautifully with the meat sauce.
- Add the Meat Sauce: Next, spread the meat sauce over the cottage cheese. This layer is the star of the show, bringing all the flavors together.
- Top with Mozzarella: Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. The mozzarella will melt and brown in the oven, creating a gooey, golden top layer that’s irresistible.
Baking the Pie
- Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it Rest: Allow the Spaghetti Pie to rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest time helps the pie set, making it easier to slice.
Serving and Storing
- Serve Warm: Cut the Spaghetti Pie into wedges and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Reheating Leftovers: Leftovers reheat wonderfully in the microwave or oven, making it a fantastic option for lunches or a quick dinner.
- Freezing for Later: To freeze the second batch, assemble the pie in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Pie is a fantastic meal that embodies the warmth and comfort of home cooking. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic in a new and exciting way, and the fact that it’s freezer-friendly makes it a practical choice for any family. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your household!
