Leslie'S Spaghetti Pie
Leslie's Spaghetti Pie combines tender pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheeses, baked to perfection. A hearty, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions and drain.
- In a large bowl, mix butter, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and beaten egg.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat well.
- Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground chuck over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic as the meat starts to cook.
- Drain off excess fat once the meat is browned.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce, sugar, and oregano.
- Spread Ricotta cheese over the spaghetti layer.
- Top with the meat mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese on top and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Let stand 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding Italian sausage to the ground chuck mixture. You can substitute the Ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter version, or use a mix of cream cheese and sour cream for a richer taste. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini, making it a delightful addition to your collection of vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Leslie's Spaghetti Pie is delicious on its own but pairs well with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of marinara sauce or a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor. This dish makes for a great family dinner or potluck contribution, and is sure to impress your guests.
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 for about 2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leslie'S Spaghetti Pie contains roughly 234 calories, with 9g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), iron (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1067mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
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 spaghetti pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the spaghetti pie a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, using a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based ground meat can create a satisfying vegetarian version, appealing to those who enjoy vegetarian recipes.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from getting mushy?
To avoid mushy spaghetti, ensure you cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. Avoid overcooking it during the initial boiling, and make sure to drain it well before mixing with the other ingredients.
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).