Spaghetti Pie Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, look no further than this Spaghetti Pie Casserole. It’s a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, baked into a golden, flavorful pie that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This recipe combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with a rich ground beef tomato sauce and a luscious blend of cheeses, all held together with eggs and fresh parsley for a savory, satisfying dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the best of Italian flavors into one easy-to-make casserole.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

There’s something incredibly comforting about pasta baked in a casserole form, and this Spaghetti Pie Casserole takes that to the next level. It’s incredibly versatile and can be prepped ahead, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get everyone around the table enjoying a homemade meal with minimal fuss. The crispy edges combined with the melty cheese center create a textural contrast that’ll have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a winner every time.

What Goes Into Spaghetti Pie Casserole

• 8 ounces spaghetti – cooked al dente, the base of our pie.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and flavor.
• 1 pound ground beef – the star protein, adding rich, savory depth.
• 1 cup diced onion – for sweetness and aroma.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds that signature Italian flavor punch.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – forms the heart of the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano – classic herbaceous note.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – aromatic and slightly sweet.
• Salt and pepper to taste – to season perfectly.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for gooey, melty goodness.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp, nutty flavor complement.
• 4 large eggs – bind the casserole together beautifully.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – fresh, vibrant finish.

Cook’s Kit

• Large pot – to cook spaghetti.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for browning beef and cooking sauce.
• Mixing bowl – to combine eggs, cheeses, and pasta.
• 9-inch round or square casserole dish – to bake the spaghetti pie.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning.
• Colander – to drain pasta.

Spaghetti Pie Casserole: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8 minutes. Drain well and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs. Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Add the cooked spaghetti and the meat sauce, folding everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand is coated with sauce and cheese mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease your casserole dish lightly with olive oil or nonstick spray. Pour the spaghetti mixture in, pressing it down gently to compact it evenly. This helps the pie hold its shape when sliced.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

If You’re Out Of…

• Ground beef: Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Fresh parsley: Use dried parsley or fresh basil instead for a different herbaceous note.
• Mozzarella cheese: Substitute with provolone or Monterey Jack for meltiness.
• Crushed tomatoes: Use tomato sauce or diced tomatoes blended smooth as a replacement.

Cook’s Notes

• Make sure the spaghetti is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking — it allows the pie to set and makes slicing easier.
• The eggs act as a binder here, so whisk them thoroughly to ensure even distribution in the casserole.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you want a subtle kick.
• For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

This Spaghetti Pie Casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual slices for a quick fix. This casserole also freezes well — wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this spaghetti pie casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ground beef and double the amount of mushrooms or add cooked lentils for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version. The sauce and cheese combo still delivers plenty of flavor.

How do I get the casserole to hold together when sliced?

Be sure to whisk the eggs well and mix them evenly through the pasta and sauce. Pressing the mixture firmly into the dish before baking also helps the pie maintain its shape.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While spaghetti is traditional for this recipe, feel free to use other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and make sure the pasta isn’t overcooked.

Try These Next

• Caprese Pasta Bake – a fresh, tomato, basil, and mozzarella pasta dish perfect for summer evenings.
• One Pot Pasta – an easy weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.
• Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake Tuna Casserole – a rich and comforting bake that’s family-friendly.

Save & Share

If you love this Spaghetti Pie Casserole, don’t forget to save the recipe for later and share it with friends and family. It’s the kind of dish everyone will want to have on hand for those cozy nights in. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

This Spaghetti Pie Casserole is a fantastic way to transform simple ingredients into a feast that feels special but comes together easily. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a staple worth keeping in your recipe box. Happy cooking!

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