Are you tired of the same old spaghetti dinners? Well, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with a savory pie that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds! This unique dish takes the classic spaghetti recipe and gives it a whole new spin, combining a beefy “crust” with layers of spaghetti, gooey cheese, and rich sauce.
Let's start with the star of the show — the beefy “crust.” Ground beef is the base here, but it's not just any ground beef. You'll want to season it well with a blend of spices that will elevate its flavor to new heights. Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium - high heat. As it cooks, break it up into small pieces with a spatula. Once it's mostly browned, add in some minced garlic. Garlic is a kitchen staple that adds a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. Let the garlic cook for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.
Next, it's time to add the spices. A sprinkle of salt, a dash of black pepper, and a generous amount of Italian seasoning will do the trick. Italian seasoning typically includes oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, which together create a harmonious flavor profile that is perfect for this dish. Stir the spices into the beef, making sure they are evenly distributed. Let the beef cook for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
While the beef is cooking, you can start preparing the spaghetti. Boil a large pot of water and add a generous amount of salt. The salt in the water is crucial as it seasons the spaghetti from the inside out. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes about 8 - 10 minutes for the spaghetti to reach the al dente stage, which means it's still slightly firm in the middle. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Now, let's talk about the sauce. You can use your favorite store - bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch. If you're making it from scratch, start by sautéing some onions in a pan until they are translucent. Then, add in some canned tomatoes, either whole or crushed. You can also add in some tomato paste for a thicker consistency. Season the sauce with more garlic, salt, pepper, and a bit of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 - 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
It's time to assemble the pie. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a 9 - inch pie dish and spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom and up the sides of the dish, creating a “crust.” Next, layer the cooked spaghetti on top of the beef. Pour about half of the sauce over the spaghetti, spreading it out evenly. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the sauce. You can use mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination of both. Repeat the layers with the remaining sauce and cheese.
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake it for about 25 - 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the beef “crust” are starting to turn golden brown. Once it's done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the pie to set and makes it easier to cut into clean slices.
This savory spaghetti pie is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftovers. You can customize it by adding other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even bacon. It's a versatile dish that can be served for dinner on a weeknight or at a family gathering. So, the next time you're looking for a new and exciting dinner idea, give this spaghetti pie a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
