Description

This Easy Spaghetti Pie transforms classic spaghetti into a layered, sliceable dish with a buttery pasta crust, creamy ricotta center, savory meat sauce, and a golden melted cheese topping for a hearty and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Salt, for cooking pasta

6 ounces vermicelli, broken into 2-inch pieces

1 tablespoon garlic, minced

2–3 tablespoons butter

1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded or grated

2 large eggs, divided

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 small onion, chopped

1 tablespoon oil

3/4–1 pound lean ground beef

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

3 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

1 1/2–2 cups shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or Italian blend)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a deep 9 1/2 to 10-inch pie plate.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the broken vermicelli until almost al dente. Drain well.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked vermicelli, butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, 1 beaten egg, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly.
Press the pasta mixture firmly into the prepared pie plate to form a crust. Bake for 15–20 minutes until set. Remove from oven and set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, remaining egg, and dried oregano until smooth. Spread evenly over the baked pasta crust.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add ground beef and cook 6–7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, and sugar. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the ricotta layer. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Bake for 25 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden. Broil briefly if desired.
Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Baking the crust first helps it hold its shape when sliced.

Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef if desired.

Add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 130mg