Spaghetti Pie Recipe – Easy Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole for Family Dinners

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a hot slice of this spaghetti pie recipe. Imagine all the saucy, cheesy goodness of classic spaghetti—but transformed into a hearty, sliceable pie that’s baked to golden perfection. It’s my answer to a weeknight dinner that satisfies everyone, from picky kids to pasta-loving adults. The spaghetti noodles form a sturdy base, layered with rich meat sauce and melted cheese that stretches with every bite.

This baked spaghetti pie recipe has been in my rotation for years, and I love how it checks so many boxes: easy to make, great for leftovers, perfect for freezing, and fun to serve. Whether you’re craving a cozy casserole with pasta and cheese, looking for a new make-ahead dinner idea, or just want something that feels like a big warm hug—this one delivers every time.

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Spaghetti Pie Recipe – Easy Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole for Family Dinners

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Samantha

This baked spaghetti pie recipe is a cozy, sliceable pasta casserole layered with tender spaghetti, creamy ricotta, hearty meat sauce, and melty mozzarella. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, freezer-ready, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Comfort Food, Dinner

Cuisine American, Italian-Inspired

Servings 8 servings

Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz spaghetti cooked and cooled slightly
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ¼ cup grated parmesan
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley optional garnish

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

  Boil the spaghetti just until al dente, then drain and let it cool for a few minutes.
• Step 2: Make the Spaghetti Crust

  In a large bowl, mix the spaghetti with ricotta, eggs, half the parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Press into a greased pie dish or springform pan.
• Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

  In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, add the marinara sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Step 4: Layer the Pie

  Spread the meat sauce over the spaghetti crust. Top with mozzarella and remaining parmesan.
• Step 5: Bake and Serve

  Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

Secret Tips for the Best Ever Spaghetti Pie

1. Use slightly undercooked pasta: Boil your spaghetti just shy of al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, soaking up all that delicious sauce without turning mushy.

2. Let it rest before slicing: After baking, let your spaghetti pie sit for at least 10–15 minutes. This helps it set up, so each slice holds together beautifully.

3. Layer strategically for maximum flavor: Spread a thin layer of marinara on the bottom of the dish before adding the pasta mixture—this creates a flavorful, saucy base that prevents sticking and boosts moisture.

4. Add a touch of garlic butter to your pasta base: Mixing a spoonful of melted garlic butter into the spaghetti before baking adds richness and depth to every bite.

5. Mix cheeses for better melt and stretch: Blend shredded mozzarella with provolone or fontina for that ultra-gooey, melty finish that pulls like a dream with every forkful.

6. Bake uncovered for a crispy top: Want that golden, cheesy crust on top? Skip the foil. If it browns too quickly, loosely cover the pie halfway through baking.

7. Freeze it like a pro: This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze the whole pie—or cut into individual slices for easy reheating on busy nights.

8. Elevate your sauce with seasoning: Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, or a touch of fennel seed to your marinara before mixing it in. These little upgrades take a basic jarred sauce to next-level flavor.

Keyword baked spaghetti casserole, cheesy pasta pie, easy weeknight pasta bake, family dinner pasta recipe, freezer friendly pasta pie, leftover spaghetti bake, make ahead spaghetti pie, spaghetti casserole with ricotta, spaghetti pie recipe, spaghetti pie with meat sauce

Recipe Overview

Nutritional Snapshot

Based on estimates from Nutritionix.

Budget Breakdown

Feeds 8 at $1.76 per serving—perfect for budget-conscious family meals.

Behind the Recipe

This spaghetti pie recipe was something I stumbled on years ago when I had a half-box of spaghetti, a bit of leftover meat sauce, and some cheese I didn’t want to waste. I mixed everything together, pressed it into a pie dish, and baked it on a whim. What came out was golden, bubbly, and absolutely addictive.

Now it’s one of my family’s favorite baked pasta recipes. It’s easy enough for a beginner and satisfying enough to feed a crowd. It gives major Italian casserole vibes but with a clever twist—using spaghetti as the crust. The ricotta and egg help bind the noodles so you can slice it like pie, while the layers of mozzarella and marinara create that gooey, cheesy pasta bake finish we all crave.

Whether I’m making it for Sunday supper, freezing a few for later, or bringing it to a potluck, spaghetti pie is my go-to. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable based on what’s in the fridge.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Pie Recipe

Baked Comfort Food at Its Best

This spaghetti pie recipe takes all the elements you love from a classic spaghetti dinner—pasta, meat sauce, cheese—and bakes them into a warm, comforting dish that’s truly greater than the sum of its parts. It’s one of those baked pasta recipes that hits every note: creamy, savory, and filling. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight meal or hosting family for Sunday dinner, this cheesy spaghetti bake will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s made from pantry-friendly ingredients like dried pasta, jarred sauce, and ground beef—no fancy shopping list required. According to Cleveland Clinic, carb-rich dishes like pasta provide lasting energy, especially when paired with protein and healthy fats.

Sliceable and Shareable

Unlike a bowl of traditional spaghetti, this baked spaghetti pie is sliceable, structured, and easy to serve. It holds its shape, making it perfect for family-style meals, lunchbox leftovers, or even potlucks. You get all the goodness of saucy noodles with the added bonus of neat slices packed with layers of flavor. It’s also easy to double for larger groups. If you’ve ever wanted a pasta dish that feels like a casserole but eats like lasagna—this is your answer.

Kid-Friendly, Parent-Approved

This recipe is a dinnertime win for kids and grown-ups. The familiar flavors of cheesy spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and soft noodles make it appealing to picky eaters, while the added structure (thanks to the eggs and ricotta) turns it into something special for adults too. You can sneak in veggies like chopped spinach or shredded zucchini without losing the kid-friendly vibe. And because it reheats like a dream, it’s a smart choice for school lunch leftovers or busy weeknights.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Dinners

One of the biggest wins with this spaghetti pie recipe is how well it stores and reheats. You can assemble it ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, or bake it in advance and freeze the whole thing for later. It’s one of the best make-ahead pasta casseroles I know—and I always keep a spare in the freezer for last-minute dinners or meal trains. It also works great for prepping multiple meals in one go, making it ideal for busy parents or anyone planning a week of comfort food dinners.

Try This If You Loved This Recipe

If you enjoy cozy, family-style dinners that feel indulgent but come together with ease, you’ll love my Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes—another baked dinner favorite that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for any night of the week.

Perfect For

Easy Weeknight Dinners

When weeknights get hectic, this spaghetti pie recipe is exactly the kind of meal that saves the day. It’s a one-dish baked spaghetti casserole that comes together quickly, uses simple ingredients, and fills everyone up with hearty, cheesy goodness. You get all the flavor of a classic Italian-style pasta dish in a form that’s structured, mess-free, and perfect for busy evenings. Plus, you won’t be left with a sink full of dishes—everything goes into one pan, making cleanup a breeze. This is what high-intent dinner searchers are looking for when they want a fast, satisfying, and low-effort pasta recipe.

Sunday Family Meals

Looking for a cozy dinner idea to bring everyone to the table? This layered spaghetti pie recipe checks every box. It has that special, made-with-love vibe you want in a Sunday dinner without the hours of prep. The golden baked top, melty mozzarella, and savory meat sauce feel like comfort food from scratch. Serve it with a salad and some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that turns an ordinary Sunday into something memorable. The best part? Leftovers are just as delicious on Monday.

Potlucks and Meal Trains

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for a friend in need, this spaghetti pie holds up beautifully during transport. It slices cleanly, doesn’t spill in the car, and tastes just as good reheated—making it one of the best pasta casserole dishes for gifting or sharing. It’s perfect for meal trains, holiday gatherings, or potlucks where you want to bring something warm, cheesy, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Make-Ahead Freezer Meals

This baked spaghetti pie recipe is a meal prep superstar. You can fully assemble and freeze it before baking, or bake and freeze individual slices for quick grab-and-go lunches. It’s an ideal freezer meal for new parents, college students, or anyone needing comfort food that’s ready when they are. According to EatRight.org, freezing baked meals properly helps preserve flavor, texture, and nutrients—so you can enjoy homemade food without compromise even on your busiest days.

Love Freezer-Friendly Dinners Like This?

Don’t miss my Easy Breakfast Ideas—they’re perfect for early mornings, busy families, or meal prep lovers who want flavor and convenience in one tidy package.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and cooled slightly
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Spaghetti

The noodle base forms the “crust” of this pie—choose regular or whole wheat spaghetti.

Ground Beef

Hearty, protein-rich, and full of flavor. Lean beef keeps it lighter without losing that meaty bite. Learn more about lean red meat options from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Ricotta and Mozzarella

These cheeses add creaminess, structure, and that irresistible cheese pull. Ricotta binds the spaghetti with the eggs, while mozzarella brings the gooey topping.

Eggs

Help the spaghetti “set” into pie form, so it slices easily.

Marinara Sauce

Choose a good-quality or homemade marinara—it’s the heart of the flavor. For a spicy twist, try arrabbiata.

How to Make This Spaghetti Pie Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Boil the spaghetti just until al dente, then drain and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Make the Spaghetti Crust

In a large bowl, mix the spaghetti with ricotta, eggs, half the parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Press into a greased pie dish or springform pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, add the marinara sauce, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Layer the Pie

Spread the meat sauce over the spaghetti crust. Top with mozzarella and remaining parmesan.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Use a springform pan for easy slicing and removal.
• Let the pie rest before cutting—it holds together better.
• Don’t skip the eggs—they’re key to helping the spaghetti set.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy baked spaghetti pie.

Easy Variations of This Spaghetti Pie Recipe

Swap the Protein

One of the best things about this spaghetti pie recipe is how easy it is to customize based on what you have in the fridge. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or ground chicken—both are excellent sources of protein and cut down on saturated fat. For bold Italian flavor, spicy or sweet Italian sausage works beautifully and adds extra richness to the meat sauce. Want to skip the meat altogether? Go meatless with hearty sautéed mushrooms or protein-rich lentils, which offer a satisfying bite and earthy depth. Lentils in particular are a great plant-based option, packed with fiber, iron, and protein as highlighted by Healthline.

Add Vegetables

Want to sneak in some extra nutrition without changing the flavor too much? This cheesy baked pasta is the perfect canvas for added veggies. Stir chopped spinach, kale, or shredded zucchini into the meat sauce before layering. Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or even roasted eggplant can bring color, texture, and nutrients to your pasta pie. Not only do vegetables add variety, but they also help balance out the richness of the cheese and meat. This is a great trick if you’re trying to add more vegetables into weeknight meals while still keeping everyone happy at the table.

Make it Spicy

If your family loves heat, turn this into a spicy baked spaghetti pie with just a few small upgrades. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chopped chilies to your marinara sauce while it simmers. You can also use spicy Italian sausage or swap your usual pasta sauce for arrabbiata to bring the heat up a notch. Want it extra spicy? Drizzle a little chili oil on top before serving or stir in a dash of cayenne to the ricotta mixture. These simple changes transform your classic family-style pasta bake into something bold, flavorful, and perfect for spice lovers.

Try a Different Cheese Combo

While mozzarella and parmesan are the classics, don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese blend. Fontina melts beautifully and brings a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the savory meat sauce. Smoked gouda adds a hint of depth and richness, while sharp provolone offers that bold, tangy finish that pairs well with tomato-based sauces. You can even go full-on indulgent with a sprinkle of asiago or a dollop of creamy burrata added after baking. Switching up the cheese is one of the easiest ways to give this baked spaghetti casserole a fresh twist without changing the overall method.

Crave a Spicier Comfort Dish Too?

If you love pasta bakes that bring the heat, don’t miss my Creamy Shrimp & Sausage Alfredo Pasta—a creamy, cheesy skillet dinner that’s rich, hearty, and kicked up with just the right amount of spice.

Also fits into these tags:

• Comfort Food Dinner
• Casserole
• Freezer Meals

Storage & Reheat Tips

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave slices on medium.

For food safety and reheating guidelines, visit FDA’s guide on leftovers.

Make It a Meal

Round out your spaghetti pie recipe with any of these Ready Prep favorites:

• Southern Breakfast Enchiladas with Sausage Gravy
• Vegan Caesar Salad
• High-Protein Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry

Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Pie Recipe

How do you keep spaghetti pie from falling apart?

The key to a sliceable spaghetti pie is using eggs and ricotta as a binder. They help set the noodles into a firm, structured base during baking. Also, make sure to let it cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting—this gives it time to hold its shape and makes serving a breeze.

What is the best cheese for spaghetti pie?

Mozzarella is the go-to for its meltability and mild flavor, while ricotta adds that creamy, fluffy interior texture. For a more flavorful twist, try fontina, provolone, or sharp white cheddar. Mixing cheeses can also add a layer of depth that elevates the entire dish.

Can I make spaghetti pie without meat?

Absolutely. A vegetarian spaghetti pie is just as hearty when you use mushrooms, lentils, or even a rich veggie marinara. It’s a fantastic way to reduce meat consumption while still getting a filling and comforting baked pasta dish. Lentils especially add protein and fiber, as highlighted in this resource from Medical News Today.

Is spaghetti pie freezer-friendly?

Yes! Bake it fully, let it cool, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. You can freeze the whole pie or individual slices for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven until hot throughout.

Can I make spaghetti pie with leftover pasta?

Definitely! Leftover spaghetti is actually perfect for this recipe because it’s already cooked and slightly dried out—making it ideal for absorbing the binding ingredients and holding together in pie form. Just toss it with the ricotta, eggs, and seasonings and press it into the pan.

What can I use instead of ricotta in spaghetti pie?

If you don’t have ricotta, try using cottage cheese or a homemade béchamel sauce. Cottage cheese provides similar creaminess with a slightly tangier flavor and extra protein, while béchamel makes for an ultra-rich and smooth base.

Is spaghetti pie a healthy dinner option?

It can absolutely be part of a balanced diet. Use whole grain spaghetti for more fiber, opt for lean ground beef or turkey, and add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost nutrition. According to WebMD, pairing high-protein foods with fiber-rich carbs can support muscle health and sustained energy—making this dish a great all-in-one meal.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes, and it works very well. Just make sure to cook it al dente and let it cool before combining with the other ingredients so it doesn’t become too soft. Chickpea or brown rice pasta holds up better in baked dishes and offers additional nutrients and fiber.

What size pan should I use for spaghetti pie?

A standard 9-inch pie dish or springform pan works best. If you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13 casserole dish. Just be sure to adjust the bake time slightly for deeper dishes.

Can I prep spaghetti pie the night before?

Yes, this is one of those magical meals that gets better with time. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it into the oven straight from the fridge and add 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I reheat spaghetti pie without drying it out?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave slices with a splash of water or marinara sauce on top to keep the texture creamy. This helps avoid the cheese drying out and keeps the noodles tender. For more food safety and reheating tips, refer to FDA’s guidelines on leftovers and reheating.

Can I add extra sauce to the top before serving?

Absolutely. If you love a saucier pasta experience, warm some extra marinara or a dollop of Alfredo and spoon it over each slice before serving. It adds moisture and makes each bite extra decadent—especially great for next-day leftovers.

Final Thoughts

This spaghetti pie recipe is the definition of comfort food done right. It’s got all the elements we love—pasta, cheese, meat sauce—but baked together into a sliceable masterpiece. It feeds a crowd, makes amazing leftovers, and checks every box for a satisfying dinner that feels both familiar and fresh.

Whether you’re serving it up for family night, meal prepping for the week, or trying something new with leftover spaghetti, this baked pasta pie is sure to be a hit. One slice in, and you’ll understand why it’s stayed in my meal plan for years.

“Cozy, cheesy, and baked to perfection—this spaghetti pie is your next family favorite.” – Sam

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📌 Pin This Recipe: Spaghetti Pie Recipe
This sliceable spaghetti casserole is loaded with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, rich meat sauce, and baked into an easy, cozy dinner the whole family will devour.