Old-Fashioned Beef Spaghetti Pie is a charming and ingenious culinary relic, a delightful casserole that masterfully reimagines spaghetti and meat sauce as a sturdy, sliceable pie. This recipe is a beautiful testament to frugal, homespun creativity, transforming simple pantry staples into a comforting, family-friendly meal with a whimsical presentation. The magic begins with the crust—a unique lattice of al dente spaghetti bound with butter, Parmesan, and egg, which bakes into a golden, noodle-based shell with a texture reminiscent of a savory kugel or frittata. This sturdy foundation is then filled with a classic, simmered beef ragù of ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and garlic, all enveloped in a seasoned tomato sauce. The final layer of molten mozzarella cheese melts into a bubbling, bronzed cap, sealing in the flavors and creating the perfect cheesy pull with every slice.
The brilliance of this dish lies in its clever construction and nostalgic appeal. It solves the age-old dilemma of serving spaghetti in a neat, portable form, making it ideal for potlucks, picnics, or slicing into wedges for easy plates. Each component is thoughtfully layered: the sturdy spaghetti crust prevents sogginess, the hearty meat filling provides savory depth, and the cheese topping adds richness and visual appeal. Baking it all together allows the flavors to meld while giving the “pie” its signature firm, sliceable structure. It’s a hearty, complete meal that captures the essence of midwestern hospitality and 1970s dinner-party charm, offering a fun, satisfying, and conversation-starting twist on two universally beloved classics: spaghetti and pie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Nostalgic Comfort Food: A fun, retro recipe that delivers all the familiar flavors of spaghetti and meat sauce in a unique, sliceable format.
- Great for Feeding a Crowd: Easy to make in one dish, travels well, and slices neatly for serving at potlucks or family dinners.
- Kid-Friendly & Fun: The novel “pie” presentation makes it an instant hit with children and the young at heart.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt with Italian sausage, different vegetables, or your favorite pasta sauce.
- Excellent Leftovers: Slices reheat beautifully for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti Crust:
8 ounces spaghetti
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Beef Filling:
1 pound lean ground beef (85/15)
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
1 medium bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Topping:
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for finishing)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a deep 9-inch pie plate or a 9-inch springform pan. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain well and return to the hot pot. Immediately add butter, Parmesan, beaten eggs, garlic powder (if using), and salt. Toss vigorously until the spaghetti is evenly coated and the cheese is melted.
Step 2: Form the Crust
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared pie plate. Using a measuring cup or your fingers, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides to form a thick crust. Ensure there are no thin spots.
Step 3: Make the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the warm beef filling into the prepared spaghetti crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by the extra Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden in spots.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the pie cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. This resting time is crucial for the pie to set and hold its shape when sliced. Garnish with fresh herbs, slice into wedges, and serve.
Tips:
- Press the Crust Firmly: A well-compacted crust is essential for structure. Use the back of a measuring cup to really press it in.
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Cook it to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked spaghetti will make a mushy crust.
- Drain the Beef Well: Removing excess fat after browning prevents the filling from being greasy and the crust from becoming soggy.
- Thicken the Filling: Let the meat sauce simmer long enough to reduce slightly. A too-wet filling can make the bottom crust soft.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes after baking is non-negotiable for clean slices.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers covered in the baking dish or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or in a covered oven-safe dish at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.
- Freezing: This pie freezes well. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the spaghetti crust and the beef filling separately up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time if the ingredients are cold.
Old-Fashioned Beef Spaghetti Pie is a hearty, nostalgic, and utterly satisfying meal that turns dinner into an event. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy classic flavors in a fun, shareable form, and a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished part of your family’s meal rotation.
