Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie
When it comes to Italian-American cuisine, few restaurants come close to Olive Garden. This popular chain is known for its delicious pasta dishes, flavorful sauces, and generous portions. One of its most iconic creations is the Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie. This hearty baked dish combines spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese for a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for any occasion. Let's take a closer look at this classic recipe and learn how to make it at home.
The History of Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie
The Olive Garden restaurant chain was founded in 1982 in Orlando, Florida. Since then, it has become a beloved destination for fans of Italian-American cuisine. The Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie was introduced to the menu in the early 1990s and quickly became a customer favorite. This hearty dish is still being served at Olive Garden locations across the United States.
Ingredients for Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie
To make the Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best results. You can adjust the amount of cheese and meat sauce based on your personal preference.
Instructions for Making Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie
Now that you have all the ingredients, let's dive into the recipe itself. Follow these simple steps to make your own Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to coat with the egg mixture.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in the bottom of a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan.
- Top the spaghetti with half of the meat sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Add another layer of spaghetti, followed by the remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle the parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
That's it! You now have a delicious Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. Serve it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-American feast.
Variations and Tips for Making Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie
While the classic recipe for Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations and flavors. Here are some tips and ideas to get you started:
- Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish.
- Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for a unique twist on the recipe.
- Experiment with different types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli to see what works best for you.
- Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later on.
No matter how you choose to make it, the Olive Garden Deep Dish Spaghetti Pie is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves Italian-American cuisine. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion.