Spicy Pasta Pie
A flavorful and hearty spicy pasta pie featuring vermicelli, sausage, tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with a touch of heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the vermicelli according to the package instructions.
- Drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the turkey sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the sausage is no longer pink and the onion is tender.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Stir in the undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper.
- Spray a casserole dish with nonstick spray coating.
- Layer half of the cooked vermicelli in the bottom of the dish.
- Top with half of the sausage mixture and half of the shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Cover loosely with foil.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more crushed red pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the sausage mixture. If you don't have vermicelli, feel free to substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. For a vegetarian version, swap the turkey sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of the tomatoes for added flavor. This dish is also a great option for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spicy Pasta Pie with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Antipasto Tortellini Salad for a delightful Italian-themed meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving for an added touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just make sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Pasta Pie contains roughly 569 calories, with 22g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% 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 prepare the Spicy Pasta Pie in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time. Simply layer the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What can I use instead of turkey sausage?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use Italian sausage (pork or chicken) for more flavor, or a vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meat-free option. Ground beef or turkey can also work well, though they may alter the flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of the Spicy Pasta Pie, substitute the vermicelli with gluten-free pasta. Check the labels on the tomato paste and other canned ingredients to ensure they're gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on your dietary needs.
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).