Spaghetti pie with ricotta cheese is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, cheesy casserole that brings all the charm of Italian home cooking to your table. This post will walk you through how to make it perfectly, the benefits of using ricotta, and tips for flavor combinations that shine. We’ll also answer common questions like which cheese works best, why you should add an egg to the ricotta, and more. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for guests, spaghetti pie delivers big taste with minimal effort.
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Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese – My Cozy Classic
Why Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese Brings Back Sweet Kitchen Memories
Growing up in Savannah, Georgia, spaghetti pie was the dish that turned any weeknight into a celebration. My grandmother used to make it with layers of leftover pasta, a spoonful of marinara, and creamy ricotta that she always had in the fridge. I remember standing on a step stool, grating Parmesan as she gently folded egg into ricotta—a trick she swore by to make it set just right. That warm slice, cut like a lasagna and steaming on the plate, was magic. Now, I make my own version with a few tweaks, always using whole milk ricotta cheese for its richness and ricotta cheese protein value.
What Makes This Spaghetti Pie So Special
What sets this baked spaghetti pie apart is the ricotta cheese—it adds a soft, luscious layer that balances the tangy tomato sauce and hearty pasta. Ricotta works beautifully with Italian flavors, especially when combined with garlic, herbs, and a touch of nutmeg. Unlike mozzarella, which melts into stretchy pools, ricotta gives the dish body and creaminess. When you mix in an egg, the texture becomes light and custardy, holding everything together like a pasta quiche. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile. You can throw in some chicken with ricotta cheese or use ricotta salata cheese for a salty kick.
This spaghetti pie recipe with ricotta cheese has become one of my go-to dishes not just because it tastes amazing—but because it reminds me how simple food can still be powerful. And comforting. And full of love.
Ingredients & Assembly Tips for Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese
Best Ingredients for Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—and the quality of each ingredient. You’ll want to use cooked spaghetti as your base. Leftover pasta works great, but fresh-cooked noodles are just as welcome. For the cheese layer, I go for whole milk ricotta cheese because it delivers a creamier texture than part-skim. A generous spoonful of ricotta adds a mellow richness that ties the pie together. Adding shredded mozzarella helps bind everything, while a sprinkle of Parmesan gives you that golden top crust we all crave. You can even try variations like dairy-free ricotta cheese if needed.
Here’s a quick breakdown in an easy-to-scan table:
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | Forms the base layer, provides structure |
| Ricotta Cheese | Creamy, rich, and binds the pie |
| Mozzarella | Melts for stretch and moisture |
| Parmesan | Adds saltiness and a golden top |
| Egg | Helps firm up the ricotta layer |
Why Use an Egg with Ricotta Cheese?
Adding an egg to ricotta cheese may seem like a small thing, but it makes a big difference. Egg acts like a binder—so when the pie bakes, it firms up that cheese layer into a light, almost soufflé-like texture. It also helps the cheese hold its shape when you slice the pie. If you’ve ever made recipes with ricotta cheese and chicken, you’ve probably seen this combo before. A single egg per cup of ricotta is plenty. For extra flavor, I whisk in some black pepper, dried basil, and a tiny pinch of garlic powder.
Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to build. You’ll start with a greased pan—either a springform for easy slicing or a deep pie dish. Press half the spaghetti into the bottom, spread that seasoned ricotta egg mix over it, add your sauce, then more spaghetti. Top it with shredded cheese and bake until golden. That’s the joy of spaghetti pie with ricotta cheese—it’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
Flavorful Variations and Reheating Tips for Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese
Tasty Variations of Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese
This recipe is incredibly versatile—you can customize it to fit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. Want to boost protein? Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or even chicken sausage. You can also mix in chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms for a veggie-forward version. Some home cooks like to layer in creamy mushroom and spinach stuffed chicken pieces for added texture and flavor.
Here are some flavorful ways to switch things up:
- For a spicier kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in spicy sausage.
- Low-carb twist: Use spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
- Kid-friendly version: Skip the green herbs and add more mozzarella for a gooey, pizza-like result.
If you’re looking to avoid dairy, you can use dairy-free ricotta cheese with dairy-free mozzarella alternatives—it still sets beautifully with an egg.
What Pairs Well with Ricotta Cheese in Pasta Bakes?
Ricotta plays so well with fresh and savory flavors. Think basil, garlic, marinara sauce, and roasted veggies. It’s mild and creamy, so you can build boldness around it. That’s why it pairs especially well with herbs like oregano and parsley, and savory add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes or olives.
A side of roasted stuffed bell peppers turns this pie into a complete dinner. Or serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced plate. For brunch or meal prep, this pie also works well with a scoop of ricotta salata cheese crumbled on top before baking.
Best Way to Reheat Spaghetti Pie
Got leftovers? Lucky you. Spaghetti pie reheats beautifully. Just slice a portion and microwave it covered for 60–90 seconds. For the oven, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes. To keep the cheese soft, drizzle a bit of water around the edges before covering. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days, or you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions, Storage
How to Serve Spaghetti Pie Like a Pro
When this pie comes out of the oven, give it about 10 minutes to rest. This helps the cheese firm up and makes slicing easier. I like to serve it in generous wedges, just like lasagna, with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and some torn fresh basil on top. A side of garlic bread is never a bad idea—and if you’re keeping it light, pair it with steamed green beans or a fresh tomato-cucumber salad.
For entertaining, it’s a showstopper. Serve it family-style in a cast iron skillet or deep ceramic dish. If you’re taking it to a potluck, prep it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bring it to room temperature before baking or increase the bake time slightly.
How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti Pie
Storing this dish is easy. After the pie cools, wrap leftovers tightly or store slices in airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days. For freezing, slice the cooled pie, wrap each piece in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat from frozen, bake covered at 350°F for 30–35 minutes or until heated through.
You can even prep the entire pie unbaked, wrap it, and freeze it whole. When you’re ready to cook, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. This makes weeknight dinners so much easier—and tastier.
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Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese: A Baked Pasta Dream for Cozy Nights
This spaghetti pie with ricotta cheese is a comforting baked pasta dish layered with creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and gooey melted mozzarella—perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
8 oz cooked spaghetti
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place half of the cooked spaghetti into the bottom of the dish and gently press to form a base.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta base.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the ricotta layer.
6. Top with remaining spaghetti, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
You can prepare this ahead and refrigerate overnight before baking. Add 10–15 minutes to the bake time if starting cold. For a spicier version, stir in red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: spaghetti pie with ricotta cheese, baked pasta, ricotta pasta bake
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use ricotta cheese in spaghetti?
Absolutely. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess and mild flavor to spaghetti dishes. In baked versions like spaghetti pie, it acts as a soft binding layer that balances out tomato-based sauces and pasta beautifully.
What type of cheese goes best with spaghetti?
Ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone are all excellent choices. Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella provides gooey melt, and Parmesan gives depth and a nutty finish. Try a combo for the best flavor.
What pairs well with ricotta cheese?
Fresh herbs like basil and parsley, garlic, spinach, mushrooms, and Italian sausage are natural matches. Ricotta also pairs well with marinara, lemon zest, and roasted vegetables.
Why use an egg with ricotta cheese?
Adding an egg helps ricotta cheese set during baking. It firms up the mixture, creating a sliceable layer that holds its shape while staying creamy inside.
Conclusion
Spaghetti pie with ricotta cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a memory on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want to turn pasta night into something special, this baked dish checks every box: creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. The combination of rich ricotta, classic marinara, and golden cheese topping turns simple ingredients into a satisfying, sliceable dinner that feels both nostalgic and new.
Don’t be afraid to make it your own. Try different cheeses, toss in leftover veggies or chicken, and enjoy how easy it is to prepare ahead of time. Most importantly, serve it with love and a smile—because that’s what makes any dish unforgettable.
