Italian Macaroni Pie
Italian Macaroni Pie combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and cheesy crust for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 10-inch pie pan or 9-inch square pan.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef with sliced celery and drain excess fat.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce and drained sliced mushrooms, then simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, slightly beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic salt. Toss lightly.
- Transfer the macaroni mixture into the prepared pan, pressing evenly to form a crust on the bottom and sides.
- Pour the meat sauce over the macaroni crust.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and let stand for 5 minutes before cutting.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier macaroni pie, consider adding a bit of ricotta or mozzarella cheese to the macaroni mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. For a flavor boost, try using Italian seasoning or fresh herbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Macaroni Pie pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine or sparkling water can complement the flavors nicely. For a touch of freshness, serve with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil on top. It's perfect for gatherings and can also be enjoyed as a leftover lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Macaroni Pie contains roughly 401 calories, with 14g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (93% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and meat sauce in advance and assemble the pie. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of spaghetti sauce?
If you prefer, you can use homemade sauce, like Terry'S Not-So-Sweet Homemade Spaghetti Sauce, or even a marinara sauce for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it has a good balance of spices to complement the dish.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes such as penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions to achieve the perfect texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).