Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese! This recipe transforms leftover spaghetti into a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover spaghetti and offers a delightful twist on a classic. This recipe is a perfect example of how easy healthy meals can be. It's one of those best recipes that's both delicious and satisfying. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly. Don't rinse the pasta; you want to retain some of the starchy water to help bind the pie.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the dish. Add the cooked spaghetti and spread it out in an even layer. Pour the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the filling is heated through. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the spaghetti pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Quick Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, sauté some finely chopped onions or garlic in olive oil before adding the marinara sauce.
- If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would work well.
- For a crispier crust, you can broil the pie for the last minute or two of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Meat Lovers' Spaghetti Pie: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or meatballs to the ricotta mixture for a heartier pie.
- Vegetable Spaghetti Pie: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the ricotta mixture for a healthier twist.
- Spicy Spaghetti Pie: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or marinara sauce for a little kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This delicious Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Enjoy!