Spaghetti pie

Spaghetti Pie - Delicious pie with spaghetti, meat, and cheese

Who doesn't love a meal that combines the rich flavors of pasta with a topping of delicious cheese? This spaghetti pie, known as Spaghetti Pie, is a perfect choice for a quick and tasty dinner that will delight the whole family. It can be easily adapted to suit everyone's preferences, and I decided to use ground chicken to make the recipe more friendly for my daughter's taste. Let's get cooking!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 400 g spaghetti
- 800 g ground meat (beef or chicken, according to preference)
- 2 tablespoons of butter + extra for greasing the pan
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 2 large eggs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (about 400 g)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 100 g cottage cheese
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 200 g mozzarella, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh basil for decoration

Cooking technique:

Step 1: Boil the spaghetti
Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions. It's important to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once boiled, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the spaghetti base
In a greased baking dish, place the boiled spaghetti. In a separate bowl, beat the 2 large eggs and mix them with the grated parmesan, butter, and a pinch of salt. Pour the mixture over the spaghetti and mix well, ensuring that each strand of spaghetti is coated.

Step 3: Cook the meat and sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then, add the ground meat and cook until it changes color, about 2-3 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the pie
Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti, gently mixing to combine. Then add the cottage cheese, mixing again. Finally, sprinkle the grated mozzarella on top of the mixture.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat the oven to 180° C. Place the spaghetti pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mozzarella is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and decorate
After removing the pie from the oven, let it cool slightly, then decorate with fresh basil leaves. This not only adds a vibrant look but also a fresh and delicious aroma.

Recommendations and variations

- Vary the ingredients: You can replace chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian option using grilled vegetables or tofu. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a different flavor.
- Add vegetables: For a nutrient boost, add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat sauce. These will add texture and flavor.
- Serving: This spaghetti pie is delicious both warm and at room temperature, making it a perfect choice for picnics or lunch meals.

Nutritional benefits

This spaghetti pie recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and cheeses, while the spaghetti provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants, while basil brings extra flavor and benefits for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is an excellent option, offering more fiber and nutrients.

2. How can I store the spaghetti pie?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, use egg-free spaghetti, vegan cheese, and omit the meat, replacing it with vegetables.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Pie is a simple, quick, and very versatile recipe, ideal for days when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With a delicious taste and attractive presentation, this spaghetti pie is sure to become a family favorite. So let's enjoy cooking and savor a delicious portion together! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 400 g spaghetti, 800 g minced beef (I used chicken because we prefer it), 2 tablespoons of butter, plus a bit for greasing the tray, 4 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil), 100 g grated Parmesan, 2 large eggs, 1 medium onion, chopped, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon oregano, 100 g cottage cheese, 1-2 cloves of garlic, 200 g mozzarella, grated, salt/pepper to taste, 2-3 sprigs of fresh basil.