Spaghetti pie – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
United States Of America Region / Locale: Colorado Servings: Serves 6
United States Of America Region / Locale: Colorado Servings: Serves 6Spaghetti Pie is a nostalgic comfort food hailing from the United States. It is a delightful twist on the classic spaghetti dish and is perfect for family gatherings. Broadly popularized in the mid-20th century, Spaghetti Pie combines the ease of a pasta dish with the heartiness of a casserole, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that result in a crispy, cheesy top layer and a tender, flavorful spaghetti filling.
Ingredients
- spaghetti – 12 oz / 340 g
- ground beef – 1 lb / 450 g
- onion, chopped – 1 medium / 150 g
- garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- canned crushed tomatoes – 28 oz / 800 g
- tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 32 g
- dried oregano – 1 tsp
- dried basil – 1 tsp
- salt – 1 tsp
- black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- eggs – 2 large
- grated Parmesan cheese – 1 cup / 100 g
- shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 cup / 120 g
- olive oil – 1 tbsp / 15 ml
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and add Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Add the drained spaghetti to this mixture and toss to coat.
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie plate. Press the spaghetti mixture into the plate, forming a ‘crust’.
- Pour the beef and tomato mixture over the spaghetti crust. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Substitutions
- ground beef -> ground turkey
- Parmesan cheese -> pecorino romano
- mozzarella cheese -> cheddar cheese
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for freshness.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
