Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavors, Spaghetti Pie Casserole combines all the comfort of pasta with the satisfaction of a baked dish. Its layers of tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese make it ideal for family dinners and gatherings.

This easy, crowd-pleasing casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and makes for fantastic leftovers. Prepare it ahead of time, or customize it to suit any taste preferences. Spaghetti Pie Casserole is versatile and can be tailored with different cheeses, sauces, or toppings.

Perfect for potlucks or cozy nights at home, this dish brings everyone together with its inviting aroma and indulgent flavor. Grab a fork, and dig into a meal that will surely become a new favorite!

Spaghetti Pie Casserole: Key Ingredients

Spaghetti – The foundation of this casserole, providing a tender, satisfying base that absorbs every layer of rich flavor.
Ground Beef – Adds heartiness and savory depth, balancing the dish with its meaty richness.
Onion & Garlic – These aromatic essentials enhance the sauce, infusing warmth and a subtle bite that elevates every forkful.
Spaghetti Sauce – Coats the layers with a robust, tangy flavor, bringing all ingredients together with a classic Italian flair.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream – The creamy duo that creates a velvety texture, blending seamlessly to add a touch of tang and richness.
Shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack Cheese – A melty topping that crisps up beautifully, adding a golden finish and extra layers of flavor to each bite.

Each of these ingredients plays a role in crafting the casserole’s comforting, layered experience.

Recipe Tips for Spaghetti Pie Casserole

Cook Spaghetti to Al Dente
To ensure that your casserole has the perfect texture, cook the spaghetti to al dente, following the package directions closely. Al dente pasta holds up better during baking, maintaining a satisfying bite without becoming mushy. If you prefer softer pasta, add a minute or two, but avoid overcooking to prevent a mushy casserole. Once drained, toss the pasta with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together while you prepare the other layers.
Enhance the Meat Sauce
While the recipe uses a jar of spaghetti sauce, feel free to elevate it with a few additional ingredients. Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano also work wonders when stirred in during the last few minutes of simmering. Don’t hesitate to add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to add richness to the meat sauce, creating a more complex and robust base for the casserole.
Layer for Perfect Flavor Balance
Layering is essential to this casserole’s success, so don’t rush the assembly! Spread the spaghetti evenly as the bottom layer, ensuring it covers the base. The creamy cheese layer goes next, creating a luscious barrier that blends the pasta and meat sauce. Finally, top with the shredded cheese, which will form a bubbly, golden crust. For best results, bake covered initially to keep moisture in, then uncover towards the end to achieve a perfect bubbly, golden topping.

What to Serve with Spaghetti Pie Casserole

Garlic Bread
A side of garlic bread complements this casserole perfectly. The crispy, buttery bread provides a satisfying crunch and adds a bit of extra flavor, especially if topped with herbs or melted cheese. Serve warm for the ultimate comfort pairing.
Simple Green Salad
A fresh, crisp green salad brings balance to the rich, hearty casserole. Try a mix of arugula, spinach, or romaine with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing note. Toss in tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives for a Mediterranean twist that pairs beautifully with the Italian-inspired flavors.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini, make a nutritious and colorful addition to the meal. The roasting process adds a subtle caramelized sweetness, which complements the savory notes of the casserole without overpowering them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still cold.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef in this recipe, offering a leaner option with similar flavor. Just make sure to season the turkey well, as it can be milder than beef.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 months of freezing.
What cheese can I use instead of Cheddar-Monterey Jack?
Mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses work wonderfully as substitutes. For a sharper flavor, try a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella to give the casserole an extra cheesy kick.

Spaghetti Pie Casserole

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 2 12

Course Pasta

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Ingredients

1 package spaghetti 8 ounces
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 jar spaghetti sauce 14 ounces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
1 cup reduced-fat sour cream
3 green onions finely chopped
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend

Instructions

Prepare the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 6 to 8 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then incorporate the spaghetti sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a small bowl, blend the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth, then stir in the chopped green onions. Grease an 11×7-inch baking dish, then layer with half of the spaghetti, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Top with the cream cheese mixture, followed by the meat sauce. Repeat layers if desired. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheese over the top.
Cover and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Remove the cover and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Keyword Spaghetti Pie Casserole

Spaghetti Pie Casserole