Get ready for a delightful fusion of Italian and comfort food with this loaded spaghetti pie recipe! It's an innovative take on classic spaghetti, layered with hearty Italian sausage, fresh broccoli, and an abundance of gooey, melty cheese. Not only does it taste heavenly, but it also presents beautifully, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or family meals.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are quite common and should be readily available in your local supermarket. However, three types of cheese are required: sharp cheddar, fontina, and parmigiano-reggiano. While cheddar is a staple in most households, fontina and parmigiano-reggiano may not be. Fontina cheese has a mild, nutty flavor with excellent melting properties, while parmigiano-reggiano, also known as parmesan, is a hard, granular cheese with a sharp, complex flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Loaded Spaghetti Pie
Unsalted butter: Used for greasing the pie pan and adding a rich flavor.
Extra-virgin olive oil: This is used to sauté the vegetables and sausage.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the pie.
Garlic: This ingredient enhances the overall flavor.
Broccoli: This adds a fresh, crunchy texture to balance out the richness.
Italian sausage: This lends a hearty, spicy touch to the pie.
Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor in the sauce.
Whole peeled tomatoes: These are cooked down to form the base of the pie's sauce.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Dried spaghetti: The main starch of the pie.
Whole milk: Adds a creamy richness to the pie.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts well and adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
Fontina cheese: Provides a mild, creamy element to the cheese blend.
Parmigiano-reggiano cheese: Offers a savory, umami flavor.
Fresh sage: Gives the pie a hint of earthy freshness.
One reader, Elie Frederick says:
This loaded spaghetti pie recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender broccoli, and three types of cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The flavors are rich and comforting, and the recipe is easy to follow. It's a definite crowd-pleaser!
Techniques Required for Making Loaded Spaghetti Pie
How to prepare the springform pan: Butter a 9 1/2-inch springform pan and tightly wrap the bottom with a large sheet of aluminum foil, crimping the foil against the outer edges to tightly seal.
How to cook the sausage-broccoli mixture: Cook the onion and garlic in oil, then add the broccoli and sausage. Stir in the tomato paste and crushed drained tomatoes, cooking until the liquid is mostly evaporated.
How to cook the spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti in boiling water until very al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and reserve the pot.
How to assemble the pie: Combine the spaghetti and milk mixture in the pot with the sausage-broccoli mixture, cheddar, fontina, and parmesan. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared pan and bake.
How to broil the pie: Sprinkle the pie with sage and remaining parmesan, then broil until the cheese is golden, about 1 to 3 minutes.
How to make ahead: The pie can be assembled, covered, and refrigerated a day ahead of time, then baked right before serving.
How to freeze the pie: The unbaked pie can be frozen for up to a month. The day before serving, remove the pie from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed.
How To Make Loaded Spaghetti Pie
Three different cheeses, juicy and hearty Italian sausages, and a luscious tomato sauce makes up this loaded spaghetti pie!
Serves:
Ingredients
- unsalted butter,for greasing the pan
- 2tbspextra-virgin olive oil
- 1medium yellow onion,finely chopped
- 2garlic cloves,finely chopped
- ¾: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>1lbItalian sausage,hot or sweet
- 1tbsptomato paste
- 28ozwhole peeled tomatoes,(1 can), drained, tomatoes crushed by hand
- kosher salt
- 1lbdried spaghetti
- ¾cupwhole milk
- 3large eggs
- 2tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 2½cupssharp cheddar cheese
- 2½cupsfontina cheese
- 1½cupparmigiano-reggiano cheese,divided
- 1tbspfresh sage,finely chopped
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and set a rack in the middle position.
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Butter a 9½-inch springform pan. Tightly wrap the bottom of the pan with a large sheet of aluminum foil, crimping the foil against the outer edges to tightly seal.
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In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the broccoli and 1 tablespoon of water and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the broccoli is crisp-tender. Add the sausage and cook, breaking the meat into small bits, for about 6 minutes, until cooked through.
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Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add the crushed drained tomatoes and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping any bits from the pan, for about 5 minutes, until the liquid is mostly evaporated. Remove from the heat and set aside.
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Add salt to the boiling water and cook the spaghetti for 7 to 8 minutes, just until very al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve the pot.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, pepper, and ¾ teaspoon of salt.
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Combine the spaghetti and milk mixture in the pot; add in the sausage-broccoli mixture, cheddar, fontina, and 1 cup of the Parmesan; stir until well combined.
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Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared pan. Using a spatula, smooth the top. Set the pan on a rimmed baking sheet.
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Bake for about 35 minutes, until the edges are golden and bubbling.
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Remove the pan from the oven. Turn on the broiler. Sprinkle the pie with the sage and remaining ½ cup Parmesan.
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Broil 4 to 5 inches from the heat for 1 to 3 minutes until the cheese is golden.
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Remove from the oven and run a knife around the inside of the pan. Let the pie rest for about 10 minutes, then release and remove the sides of the pan.
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Cut the pie into slices and serve warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 801.07kcal
- Fat: 51.02g
- Saturated Fat: 25.31g
- Trans Fat: 0.55g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 17.60g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.08g
- Carbohydrates: 44.48g
- Fiber: 3.99g
- Sugar: 6.33g
- Protein: 41.25g
- Cholesterol: 189.24mg
- Sodium: 1176.04mg
- Calcium: 759.64mg
- Potassium: 673.63mg
- Iron: 2.53mg
- Vitamin A: 330.99µg
- Vitamin C: 43.74mg
Helpful Technique for Making Loaded Spaghetti Pie
When cooking the spaghetti, it's crucial to only cook it until it's very al dente. This is because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and if it's already fully cooked before it goes in, it could become mushy and lose its texture. So, when you bite into a strand of the pasta, look for a small white spot in the center. This indicates that it's cooked just enough to be pliable but still has a firm center, which is the perfect stage for this recipe.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the entire dish, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
Multitask: While the pasta is boiling, prepare the other components of the dish to maximize efficiency.
Freezer stash: Consider making a double batch and freezing one for a quick and convenient meal in the future.
Kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen tools like a food processor or mandoline to speed up the prep work.
Leftover magic: Repurpose leftover cooked pasta and sausage mixture into a delicious frittata or stir-fry for a quick meal.
Substitute Ingredients For Loaded Spaghetti Pie Recipe
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unsalted butter – Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish, and it's a suitable replacement for butter in many recipes.
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extra-virgin olive oil – Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good substitute for olive oil in cooking.
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yellow onion – Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in most recipes.
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garlic – Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing or chopping.
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broccoli – Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be a great substitute for broccoli in many recipes, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
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Italian sausage – Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage can be a leaner alternative to Italian sausage while still providing a flavorful addition to the dish.
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tomato paste – Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for tomato paste by adjusting the quantity and consistency in the recipe.
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whole peeled tomatoes – Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be a suitable substitute for whole peeled tomatoes, providing a similar texture and flavor.
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kosher salt – Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
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dried spaghetti – Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash can be used as a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, adding a unique twist to the dish.
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whole milk – Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free substitute for whole milk in many recipes, providing a slightly nutty flavor.
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large eggs – Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can be used as a vegan-friendly substitute for eggs in recipes, providing binding properties similar to regular eggs.
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sharp cheddar cheese – Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese can be a flavorful substitute for sharp cheddar, adding a creamy and slightly nutty taste to the dish.
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fontina cheese – Substitute with guyere cheese: Gruyère cheese can be used as a substitute for fontina, providing a rich and nutty flavor to the dish.
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parmigiano-reggiano cheese – Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmigiano-Reggiano, offering a similar sharp and salty flavor.
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fresh sage – Substitute with fresh thyme: Fresh thyme can be used as a substitute for sage, providing a slightly different flavor profile while still complementing the dish.
Best Way to Present This Loaded Spaghetti Pie
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Elevate the plating: When presenting the loaded spaghetti pie, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a large, round plate to showcase the pie, and carefully arrange the slices to create an attractive display.
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Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped sage. Sprinkle it over the top of the pie to enhance the visual appeal and add a pop of flavor.
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Incorporate artistic sauce drizzles: Create an elegant presentation by drizzling a vibrant tomato sauce in an artistic pattern on the plate. This adds a sophisticated touch and showcases attention to detail.
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Utilize fine dining serveware: Serve the loaded spaghetti pie on elegant ceramic or porcelain serveware to elevate the dining experience and convey a sense of refinement.
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Balance the plate: Consider the overall composition of the plate, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors, textures, and shapes. Aim for a visually striking presentation that captivates the senses.
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Highlight the layers: Showcase the layers of the spaghetti pie by carefully slicing and arranging the portions to reveal the beautiful strata of pasta, cheese, and savory fillings.
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Emphasize precision in plating: Pay close attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the presentation reflects precision and artistry. Every detail matters in creating a visually stunning dish.
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Add a touch of elegance with edible flowers: Consider adorning the plate with delicate, edible flowers to introduce a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation. Choose edible flowers that complement the flavors of the dish.
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Create a focal point: Arrange the loaded spaghetti pie as the focal point of the plate, drawing attention to its richness and complexity. Surround it with complementary elements to enhance the overall visual impact.
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Consider negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and shine. Thoughtful use of empty space can accentuate the beauty of the loaded spaghetti pie.
Essential Tools for Making Spaghetti Pie
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Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling pasta and other large quantities of food.
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Skillet: A skillet is a versatile pan used for sautéing, frying, and cooking a variety of dishes.
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Whisk: A whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients together, especially in recipes that require a smooth consistency.
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Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly.
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9 1/2-inch springform pan: This type of pan is used for making cakes, pies, and other baked goods that can be easily removed from the pan.
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Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used for covering dishes and wrapping food to keep it fresh.
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Spatula: A spatula is used for smoothing and spreading mixtures in baking and cooking.
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Rimmed baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
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Knife: A knife is an essential tool for cutting and slicing ingredients.
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Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Storing and Freezing Loaded Spaghetti Pie
- To store leftover loaded spaghetti pie, let it cool completely to room temperature before covering tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti pie. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat the refrigerated pie, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil and cover the pie loosely with fresh foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
- If reheating from frozen, thaw the spaghetti pie overnight in the refrigerator. Then, follow the reheating instructions above. Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen pie directly in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.
- For individual servings, slice the cooled pie into portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. This allows you to reheat single servings as needed, following the same reheating instructions.
- When reheating, you can add a sprinkle of fresh grated cheese on top of the pie for extra flavor and to refresh the appearance.
How to Reheat Spaghetti Pie Leftovers
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To reheat leftover loaded spaghetti pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning and drying out. Place the covered pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the top.
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If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual slices of spaghetti pie in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help prevent the pasta from drying out.
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For a crispy top, you can also reheat individual slices in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the slice of spaghetti pie in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and the bottom is crispy.
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If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your spaghetti pie. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of the pie in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy.
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Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the spaghetti pie with a food thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to consume.
Interesting Fact About Loaded Spaghetti Pie
The loaded spaghetti pie recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, broccoli, and a variety of cheeses. It offers a unique twist on traditional spaghetti and is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a special family dinner. With its layers of savory ingredients and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves comfort food. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and even frozen for future use, making it a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy this loaded spaghetti pie as a satisfying and flavorful meal!
Is This Spaghetti Pie Recipe Budget-Friendly?
This loaded spaghetti pie recipe offers a good balance of cost-effectiveness. The use of affordable ingredients like pasta, broccoli, and Italian sausage makes it budget-friendly. However, the variety of cheeses and the quantity required might push the cost slightly higher. The overall verdict for this recipe would be 8/10 for its taste, versatility, and ability to feed a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30, making it a reasonable option for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Is This Spaghetti Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?
This loaded spaghetti pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium due to the generous amounts of cheese, sausage, and processed tomatoes used. The refined carbohydrates from the spaghetti also contribute to the overall unhealthy nature of the dish. However, the inclusion of broccoli does provide some essential vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, several adjustments can be made without compromising on taste:
- Swap out the regular sausage for a leaner, turkey-based variety or use ground turkey instead
- Reduce the amount of cheese used, focusing on more flavorful varieties like sharp cheddar and Parmigiano-Reggiano to maintain taste with less quantity
- Use whole wheat or legume-based spaghetti to increase fiber content and nutritional value
- Increase the amount of broccoli and consider adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the nutrient profile
- Opt for low-sodium or no-salt-added tomatoes to reduce the overall sodium content
- Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk to decrease the saturated fat content
Editor's Opinion on This Loaded Spaghetti Pie Recipe
The loaded spaghetti pie recipe is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti. The combination of Italian sausage, broccoli, and a trio of cheeses creates a rich and flavorful filling, while the crispy golden edges add a satisfying crunch. The use of a springform pan gives the dish a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for a special occasion. The make-ahead and freezer-friendly options make it a convenient choice for busy days. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious and comforting meal that is sure to impress both family and guests.
Why trust this Loaded Spaghetti Pie Recipe:
This loaded spaghetti pie recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines classic Italian flavors with a comforting, cheesy twist. The combination of Italian sausage, broccoli, and a trio of flavorful cheeses creates a satisfying and indulgent meal. The step-by-step instructions provide clear guidance, ensuring a successful outcome for home cooks. With its make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, this recipe offers convenience and flexibility for busy schedules. Trust in the quality and depth of flavors in this loaded spaghetti pie, and enjoy a memorable dining experience with family and friends.
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