Lower Fat Spaghetti Pie
A lighter spaghetti pie featuring a crispy crust, savory cottage cheese, lean hamburger, and fresh vegetables, ideal for a comforting, healthier family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the spaghetti, then remove 1 cup and set aside.
- Toss the remaining spaghetti with Parmesan cheese and egg whites.
- Press the spaghetti mixture into a sprayed 10-inch pie plate to form a crust.
- Spread fat-free cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti crust.
- Brown the lean hamburger in a skillet and drain well.
- Stir 1 cup of cooked spaghetti into the browned hamburger along with prepared spaghetti sauce.
- Spread the meat mixture over the cottage cheese layer in the pie dish.
- Add sliced onions, green peppers, and mushrooms on top as desired.
- Loosely cover the pie with greased foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or adding more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the lean hamburger with textured vegetable protein or extra mushrooms. For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs or garlic powder into the spaghetti crust. You can also use low-fat cheese instead of Parmesan for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Lower Fat Spaghetti Pie is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting touch. Consider adding a side of marinara sauce for dipping or additional flavor. It’s a great option for family dinners or potlucks.
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 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lower Fat Spaghetti Pie contains roughly 262 calories, with 20g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 556mg per serving (24% 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 use a different type of cheese in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor profile slightly, but it will still be delicious. Low-fat varieties of cheese can also work well to keep the dish lighter.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this Lower Fat Spaghetti Pie gluten-free, simply replace the regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, such as rice, quinoa, or lentil-based pasta that can hold up well in this dish.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the entire pie up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for a day. When you're ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).