Easy Spaghetti Pie Recipe Ricotta Cheese
Spaghetti pie is a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. This recipe adds a twist to the traditional spaghetti pie by incorporating ricotta cheese. Ricotta cheese is a fresh cheese made from whey leftover from the production of other cheese types. It is creamy, rich, and has a slightly sweet taste that pairs well with pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering. Here is a step-by-step guide to making an easy spaghetti pie recipe with ricotta cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg and cheese mixture and toss to combine.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan.
- Pour the tomato and beef mixture on top of the spaghetti mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pie.
- Cover the pie with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations
This recipe can be customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations to try:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the tomato and beef mixture.
- Top the pie with sliced black olives or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Use a different type of cheese like feta, goat cheese, or cheddar instead of mozzarella.
Conclusion
This easy spaghetti pie recipe with ricotta cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese and tangy tomato sauce is sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, it's easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy!