Friendship Spaghetti Pie is a heartwarming dish that’s as comforting to make as it is to share. Layers of spaghetti, creamy ricotta, rich meat sauce, and melted mozzarella come together to form a casserole that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s the perfect freezer meal or gift for someone who could use a little homemade love.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Layer:
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan or an 8×8-inch baking dish. - Prepare the Pasta Base
Toss cooked spaghetti with melted butter, beaten eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan to form a “crust.” - Mix the Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly over the spaghetti layer. - Cook the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef or sausage, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes, then spread evenly over the cheese layer. - Add the Topping
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Add a little extra Parmesan if you like a golden crust. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Cool and Serve
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Gifting
To gift or freeze:
- Assemble the pie but don’t bake it.
- Cover tightly with foil and label with baking instructions: “Remove plastic, bake uncovered at 350°F for about 45 minutes or until cheese is melted.”
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love It
- Perfect for meal trains, new parents, or friends in recovery
- Freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully
- Comforting, cheesy, and full of love
FAQ
Q: Can I use other pasta?
Yes! Penne or rotini work great if that’s what you have.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely — just skip the meat or use a plant-based substitute.
Q: How do I make it extra creamy?
Add ¼ cup of cream cheese to the ricotta mixture for a richer filling.
Conclusion
Friendship Spaghetti Pie is more than a meal — it’s a gesture of care and kindness. Whether baked for your own family or gifted to a friend, this hearty casserole brings warmth and connection to every table.
