Skillet-Baked Spaghetti Pie
Introduction
Skillet-Baked Spaghetti Pie is a comforting and hearty meal combining the rich flavors of pasta, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. This dish brings Italian-inspired cuisine to your table, offering a creative twist on traditional spaghetti. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. Its cheesy topping and golden crust make it irresistible to pasta lovers.
Ingredients
For a 12-inch skillet (serves 6-8):
Base Ingredients:
• 12 oz (350g) spaghetti (cooked al dente)
• 2 cups marinara or your favorite pasta sauce
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef, sausage, or plant-based meat (optional)
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional for creaminess)
• 1 large egg (optional, for binding)
Cheese Topping:
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Garnish:
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
• 1 cup cooked vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers)
• Red pepper flakes for spice
Instructions and Methods
1. Prepare the Pasta Base:
• Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Protein (if using):
• In a skillet, cook ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix with marinara sauce.
3. Combine Ingredients:
• In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the marinara sauce, cooked protein, ricotta (if using), and egg. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble in Skillet:
• Grease your cast-iron skillet or ovenproof dish. Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly in the skillet. Press down slightly to compact.
5. Add the Cheese:
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
• Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
• Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with parsley or basil before serving.
History of the Dish
Spaghetti pie is a comforting dish with Italian-American roots. It gained popularity as a way to repurpose leftover pasta and create a hearty, baked casserole-style meal. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing nature have made it a staple in home kitchens for decades.
Health Benefits
• Energy-packed: Spaghetti provides carbohydrates, giving energy for daily activities.
• Protein-rich: Adding meat or plant-based proteins boosts muscle health.
• Calcium boost: The cheese provides a good dose of calcium for strong bones.
• Vegetable options: Adding veggies increases fiber and essential nutrients.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approximation)
• Calories: 380-450 kcal
• Protein: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Fats: 15-20g
• Fiber: 3-5g
Formation and Serving Suggestions
• Serve this dish straight from the skillet for a rustic touch.
• Pair with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Who Will Love It?
This dish is perfect for:
• Pasta enthusiasts who love creative recipes.
• Families looking for an easy-to-make, filling meal.
• Meal preppers as leftovers reheat beautifully.
• Cheese lovers who can’t resist the gooey topping.
Conclusion
Skillet-Baked Spaghetti Pie is a comforting, versatile dish that merges rich flavors with ease of preparation. Whether you’re making it for your loved ones or enjoying it solo, it’s a recipe that warms both the heart and the stomach. Try it today and experience a new way to enjoy classic spaghetti!