If you love comfort food with layers of savory goodness, this Layered Meat Pasta Pie is sure to impress. A delicious combination of spaghetti, rich marinara sauce, ground beef (or turkey), creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, all baked to perfection, makes this dish a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a hearty meal for your family, this dish will satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making this delicious layered pasta pie, from gathering the ingredients to baking it to perfection. Let’s dive into the recipe and all the details you need to make this flavorful meal.
Ingredients with Quantity
For the best results, use the following ingredients to create the perfect Layered Meat Pasta Pie. The quantities listed will yield approximately 6 servings.
For the Pasta Base:
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained (You can use any pasta you like, but spaghetti works best for this recipe)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (This adds the perfect balance of herbs and flavor to the dish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (For a rich, nutty flavor)
- 2 large eggs (These will help bind the pasta together and create a solid base for the pie)
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (Both work well; use whichever you prefer or have on hand)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (For added sweetness and texture)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (Garlic is a must for flavor!)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste (For seasoning)
For the Layers:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (Creamy ricotta adds a smooth texture to the layers)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (Mozzarella adds that gooey, melted goodness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (For extra cheesy flavor and texture)
Directions and Preparation Method
Here is the step-by-step guide to making this delicious Layered Meat Pasta Pie.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or a deep baking dish to ensure the pie doesn’t stick and is easy to remove after baking.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat. Then, stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors and thicken slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the pasta to ensure that the eggs and cheese coat the noodles evenly. Press the pasta mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust. Make sure the pasta is spread evenly and pressed firmly into place.
Step 4: Layer the Pie
Once the pasta base is ready, it’s time to start layering! Begin by spreading the ricotta cheese evenly over the pasta crust. Then, take half of the meat sauce and spread it over the ricotta layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Pasta Pie
Place the prepared pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips as it bakes. Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. If you prefer a crispy top, you can broil the pie for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once the pasta pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the pie to set and makes it easier to slice. If you used a springform pan, carefully remove the sides to reveal the beautifully layered pie. Serve the dish warm, and enjoy the hearty, flavorful layers!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta pie up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the pie, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if necessary.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While spaghetti works best for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just make sure to cook and drain the pasta well before assembling the layers.
3. Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. The flavor will still be delicious, especially with the marinara sauce and seasonings.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the ground meat with plant-based alternatives like crumbled tofu, lentils, or store-bought meatless crumbles. Ensure that the rest of the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
5. Can I freeze the leftover pasta pie?
Yes, you can freeze the leftover pasta pie. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes.
6. How do I know when the pasta pie is fully cooked?
The pasta pie is fully cooked when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center to check if it’s hot all the way through.
Conclusion
This Layered Meat Pasta Pie is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines everything you love about pasta, cheese, and a rich meat sauce. With its cheesy layers and delicious marinara sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a party, or just craving comfort food, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility — you can easily substitute ingredients to fit dietary preferences or use up whatever you have in your pantry. Plus, it’s simple to make and will leave you with minimal cleanup afterward. Try making this layered pasta pie for your next dinner, and enjoy the flavors and textures in every bite.
Happy cooking!