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.

Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese: A Baked Pasta Dream for Cozy Nights

Name: Spaghetti Pie with Ricotta Cheese: A Baked Pasta Dream for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
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

Ingredients

Scale

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.

Author: Marlene Grace
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