Spaghetti Pie might sound a bit unusual at first, but trust me, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of recipe that gets passed around because it’s just so reliably delicious and easy to make. This version, inspired by the home-style cooking of the Pioneer Woman, takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you need to feed a hungry group. Even those who consider themselves food enthusiasts will appreciate the uncomplicated deliciousness of this spaghetti pie. Plus, it’s fantastic for leftovers the next day!
Why This Spaghetti Pie Recipe is a Must-Try
This isn’t just any spaghetti dish; it’s a spaghetti pie. Think of it as a savory pasta bake with a fun, sliceable presentation. What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and how well it balances flavors and textures. It’s incredibly straightforward to assemble, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator. The combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese layers, and perfectly cooked spaghetti creates a hearty and comforting dish that everyone, from kids to adults, will love. If you’re searching for a reliable recipe to add to your rotation, especially one that’s reminiscent of the Pioneer Woman’s hearty and approachable style, this spaghetti pie is it.
Image: A close-up shot of a slice of golden brown spaghetti pie, showcasing the layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients for Your Pioneer Woman Inspired Spaghetti Pie
Let’s gather everything you’ll need to create this family-friendly spaghetti pie. The ingredient list is simple, ensuring that anyone can easily whip up this recipe without a fuss.
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of ground beef forms the hearty, savory base of our pie.
- Onion: ½ cup of chopped onion adds flavor depth to the meat sauce.
- Seasoning: ¼ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper enhance the overall taste.
- Tomato Sauce: A 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, preferably with garlic for extra flavor, creates the classic tomato-based sauce. You can also use plain tomato sauce and add minced garlic to your liking.
- Sour Cream: 1 ½ cups of sour cream contribute to the creamy layer and add a tangy richness.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces of softened cream cheese blend with the sour cream for an extra smooth and decadent texture.
- Angel Hair Pasta: 8 ounces of uncooked angel hair pasta, whole wheat or regular, provides a delicate yet sturdy base for the pie.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 ¼ cups (about 5 ounces) of shredded cheddar cheese create a flavorful and bubbly topping.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spaghetti Pie
Follow these easy instructions to bake your own delicious spaghetti pie. The steps are simple and straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for weeknight dinners.
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove for your pasta.
- Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned. Make sure to crumble the beef as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease if you prefer, though it’s often not necessary. Stir in the salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it gently cook while you prepare the other components.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the angel hair pasta to the boiling water and cook until just tender, which usually takes around 4 minutes for angel hair. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Create the Creamy Layer: In a separate small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooked angel hair noodles in the casserole dish.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the meat sauce mixture over the cream cheese layer, covering the pasta completely. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the meat sauce. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is melted and bubbly and the pie is heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the spaghetti pie cool slightly before slicing and serving hot. It’s delicious on its own or with a simple side salad.
Tips for the Best Spaghetti Pie
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly. Be sure to cook it just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the pie.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add extra flavor to your meat sauce. A clove of minced garlic, a pinch of Italian seasoning, or a dash of red pepper flakes can add depth.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: Spaghetti pie is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it just before serving. You can also bake it completely and reheat it later, making it perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
This Pioneer Woman inspired spaghetti pie recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. It’s comforting, easy, and utterly delicious – everything you want in a family meal. Enjoy!
