There is something incredibly comforting about a dish that brings together the best of classic Italian flavors in one warm, satisfying bake. This Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe combines tender spaghetti noodles, rich marinara, flavorful seasoned ground meat, and two kinds of cheese to create a family-friendly meal that feels both hearty and special. Whether you’re looking to impress at a weeknight dinner or need a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, this recipe offers a unique twist on spaghetti that is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an essential role. From the comforting texture of spaghetti noodles to the creamy ricotta that melts perfectly in the middle, every element enhances the flavor and structure of the dish.
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect base that holds up well in the bake without becoming mushy.
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey: Adds savory protein and richness, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cups marinara sauce (divided): Brings a tangy, tomatoey brightness that ties all ingredients together with a burst of flavor.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Gives a creamy, delicate texture and mild flavor that balances the meat and tomato sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a gooey, melty topping that browns to golden perfection in the oven.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ricotta mixture and help the pie hold its shape when sliced.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried): Infuses the dish with a fragrant herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate and balance all the flavors in the dish.
How to Make Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish. This sets the stage for your pie bake to cook evenly and prevents sticking, making serving a breeze later.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook your spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until they are tender but still have a slight bite (al dente). Drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which will help your pie bake hold together perfectly.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Next, stir in half of the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, fresh or dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix this until the texture becomes smooth and well blended; this mixture adds creaminess and helps hold the layers together inside your bake.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Take your cooked spaghetti noodles and toss them with the remaining marinara sauce to coat evenly. Now, layer half of the sauced spaghetti in the greased baking dish. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over this first layer, then top with the remaining spaghetti. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is bubbling and beautifully golden brown. Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing so each piece holds together stunningly on the plate.
How to Serve Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh garnish like a sprinkle of extra chopped basil or a handful of grated Parmesan can elevate the appearance and flavor. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely finishing touch that awakens your taste buds.
Side Dishes
This Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads to balance the richness, or some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is always a hit for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at family dinners or gatherings, serve this bake in individual ramekins or muffin tins to create mini spaghetti pies. This makes portioning easy and adds a charming presentation that’s bound to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spaghetti Pie Bake should be transferred in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled well will maintain the flavors and texture for later enjoyment.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully if you want to prepare ahead of time. After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months and is perfect for meals on busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Using the oven helps keep the texture intact and the cheese melty rather than rubbery.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based meat alternatives to keep the hearty texture while making it meat-free.
Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, dried basil works well too; just remember that its flavor is more concentrated, so start with about one teaspoon and adjust to taste.
What type of baking dish is best for this recipe?
A standard 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly, giving enough depth and space for the layers to cook evenly without being overly thick.
Can I prepare this in advance and bake later?
You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, which makes this Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy days.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The cheese on top should be golden and bubbling, and the edges should be slightly crisp. Baking it for 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F usually guarantees a perfectly cooked pie.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate while being easy to prepare and serve. With its layers of cheesy goodness, rich meat sauce, and tender noodles, it’s sure to win over the hearts and appetites of your family and friends. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a staple in your home, just like I have in mine!
Print
Spaghetti Pie Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and comforting Spaghetti Pie Bake combining al dente spaghetti, savory ground meat with marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners and meal prepping.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup marinara sauce (divided from total 2 cups)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce (remaining half)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook Meat Sauce: In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in half (1 cup) of the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, fresh or dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Pie: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce. In the greased baking dish, layer half of the sauced spaghetti, then spread the ricotta mixture evenly over it. Top with the remaining spaghetti and then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. Remove and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey for a lighter variation.
- Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor, but dried basil works well too if fresh is unavailable.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
