Before we get to the mouthwatering details of this recipe, let me take a moment to say—thank you. Thank you for showing up, for thinking of others, and for seeking out meals that go beyond just feeding people. Because that’s what this Friendship Spaghetti Pie is all about: nourishing hearts as much as bellies.
Whether you’re bringing dinner to a friend with a new baby, comforting someone through a hard season, or just making a second pie to stash in the freezer (because future-you will be so glad you did!), this is one of those dishes that delivers love in every layer.
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What Is Friendship Spaghetti Pie?
It’s spaghetti—but better.
Think of it like a layered baked pasta pie: buttery spaghetti forms the “crust,” then comes a herby ricotta layer, a rich meat sauce, and finally a generous topping of gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s sliceable, freezer-friendly, and just downright cozy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 💕 Makes two pies—one for you, one to share
- 🧊 Freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead gifting
- 🍝 Packed with flavor, textures, and cheesy goodness
- 🥄 Comfort food that feeds both the body and soul
What Does It Taste Like?
Warm, cheesy, rich, and nostalgic. The spaghetti crust gives it a fun, unexpected texture—almost like a pasta quiche—while the creamy ricotta layer balances the tangy marinara and savory beef. Every bite is perfectly saucy and satisfying.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make two 9-inch spaghetti pies (each serves about 4 people):
- 1 lb dry spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ small yellow onion, diced
- 1 (32 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 2 9-inch aluminum pie pans (disposable = giftable!)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for browning beef
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula for layering
- Foil & plastic wrap for freezing
- Sharpie for labeling
Optional Additions or Swaps
- Add chopped spinach or parsley to the ricotta layer
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef
- Make it vegetarian by swapping beef for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta in a pinch
- Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
🍝 1. Cook the Spaghetti
- Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and return to pot.
- Stir in butter, then mix in beaten eggs and parmesan. Season with a little salt.
- This forms your “crust” layer.
🍳 2. Cook the Meat Sauce
- In a skillet, brown ground beef and onion over medium-high heat.
- Once fully cooked, drain if needed, stir in marinara sauce, and remove from heat.
🧀 3. Mix the Ricotta Layer
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, minced garlic, dried basil, and a pinch of salt.
🥧 4. Assemble the Pies
- Divide the spaghetti mixture between the two pie pans and press it down evenly.
- Spread ricotta mixture over the spaghetti.
- Top with meat sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over each pie.
🔥 5. Bake or Freeze
- If baking now: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes.
- If freezing: Cover with plastic wrap + foil and freeze.
- To bake from frozen, cook at 350°F for about 45 minutes until bubbly.
What to Serve With Spaghetti Pie
- 🥗 A crisp green salad with Italian dressing
- 🧄 Garlic bread or focaccia
- 🍷 A glass of red wine (if it’s that kind of night!)
- 🍋 Sparkling lemonade for a bright non-alcoholic pairing
Tips for Gifting
- Use disposable pie pans so your recipient doesn’t need to return anything
- Label with baking instructions and the date
- Include a note of encouragement or a handwritten recipe card
- Deliver with salad, dessert, or a loaf of bread for a full meal
Storing & Reheating
- In the fridge: Keeps 3–4 days, tightly covered
- In the freezer: Up to 3 months
- To reheat: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until hot, about 25–30 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it fully and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I double the recipe?
You already are! This recipe makes two pies—perfect for meal prep or sharing.
Can I freeze after baking?
Yes, but for best texture, it’s recommended to freeze before baking.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—spaghetti and cheese? What’s not to love?
Final Thoughts
Friendship Spaghetti Pie is more than a meal. It’s a gesture. A warm hug in a dish. Whether you’re feeding your family or wrapping it up to gift a friend, this recipe is about more than just great food—it’s about showing up for one another in the most comforting way.
More Cozy Recipes to Share:
- 🧀 [Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Casserole]
- 🍲 [Creamy Baked Ziti with Spinach]
- 🥧 [Freezer-Friendly Chicken Pot Pie]
Let’s Spread the Love 💛
Have you made Friendship Spaghetti Pie? I’d love to hear your story!
📸 Tag your creation on Pinterest or Instagram and share how you gifted or served it.
✨ Want more comfort food recipes that make the world a little warmer? Subscribe now and let’s keep sharing joy—one meal at a time.
Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approximate):
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 33g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
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