Pasta Pie Recipe

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty meal that combines two of life’s greatest pleasures: pasta and cheese. When I first made this Pasta Pie for my family, I wasn’t sure how they’d react to a dish that looked more like a cake than a classic Italian dinner. However, the moment I pulled it from the oven and let the warm aroma fill the kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. As we sat down to eat, the combination of flavors and textures brought smiles all around the table. Each slice was a delightful surprise, revealing a melty, cheesy filling nestled within perfectly cooked rigatoni. It quickly became a family favorite, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 14 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Filling:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 lightly beaten egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Garnish:

• Fresh chopped basil
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Make the Sauce: In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Remove from the pan and drain excess fat. In the same pot, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, ground beef, and herbs. Bring to a low boil and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Make the Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the lightly beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
4. Prepare the Pasta: Grease an 8-inch springform pan. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and fill each rigatoni with the ricotta filling using a pastry bag or a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off. Stand the filled rigatoni upright in the greased springform pan.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour a few tablespoons of sauce over the filled pasta, making sure to fill in any gaps. Pour another cup of sauce over the pasta and then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Loosely cover the pan with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Afterward, uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is cooked through. For a golden-brown finish, broil for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.
7. Let Cool: Remove the Pasta Pie from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes before carefully removing the springform sides.
8. Serve: Slice the Pasta Pie and garnish with fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with any remaining sauce for dipping or drizzling.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the Pasta Pie into wedges and plate individually.
• Garnish with fresh chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Offer garlic bread for an extra touch.
• Provide extra sauce for those who want a richer flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your sauce and filling can significantly improve with fresh herbs and quality cheeses.
2. Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and cheese filling a day in advance to save time.
3. Experiment with Pasta: While rigatoni is ideal, you can use other tubular pasta like penne or ziti.
4. Customize the Filling: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta filling for added flavor and nutrition.
5. Check for Doneness: Ensure that the cheese is fully melted and bubbly for the best texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Spicy Option: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for some heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in additional cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for a more complex flavor profile.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair the Pasta Pie with a crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a side of garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks for a filling meal.
• Offer a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the richness of the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Pasta Pie can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra time.
• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making my own?

• Yes, store-bought marinara or pasta sauce can save time.

1. What if I don’t have a springform pan?

• You can use a regular baking dish, but it may be harder to slice.

1. How do I know when the Pasta Pie is done?

• It should be bubbly, with melted cheese and a slightly golden top.

1. Can I make this gluten-free?

• Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check that the sauces do not contain gluten.

1. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Replace the beef with a variety of vegetables or lentils.

1. What can I serve with Pasta Pie?

• A salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments.

1. How long does it take to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

1. Can I add more cheese?

• Definitely! Feel free to increase the amount of mozzarella or experiment with other cheeses.

1. What type of pasta works best?

• Rigatoni holds the filling well, but other tubular pastas like ziti can be used.

1. How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?
   • Avoid overcooking the pasta before filling it, and use a thicker sauce.

Conclusion

Pasta Pie is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines the warmth of family, comfort food, and a bit of culinary creativity. With its layers of rich sauce, creamy cheese filling, and the satisfying texture of pasta, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite in my home. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Pasta Pie is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this delicious dish!

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