Spinach And Pasta Pie
A savory pie combining tender pasta, spinach, and cheesy layers with a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, cooked pasta, 1/2 cup spaghetti sauce, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture over the bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-inch pie plate to form a shell.
- Cook spinach according to package directions; drain well.
- Mix together spinach, Ricotta cheese, and ground nutmeg.
- Spoon the spinach mixture into the pasta-lined pie plate.
- Spread the remaining spaghetti sauce atop the filling.
- Cover the edge of the pie with foil.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more Ricotta cheese or even substituting some of the pasta with cooked quinoa. If you want to boost the flavor profile, add sautéed garlic or onions to the spinach mixture. You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, but tiny stars or orzo work best for a delicate bite. Don't forget to season the spinach mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spinach and Pasta Pie warm, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty breadsticks for a complete meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving it alongside Italian vegetable supreme for a delightful vegetarian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and bake at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Pasta Pie contains roughly 342 calories, with 13g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can certainly use fresh spinach! Just sauté about 10 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted, then drain and chop it before mixing with the Ricotta cheese. This will add a fresher taste to the dish.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will provide a nice umami kick to the pie.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the cooked pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or legumes. Ensure all other ingredients, like the spaghetti sauce, are also gluten-free to keep the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).