Homemade Pasta Pie
If you’re looking for a delicious and impressive dish to serve at your next gathering or simply craving a comforting and satisfying meal, a homemade pasta pie is the answer! This delightful culinary creation combines the goodness of pasta, the richness of a flavorful sauce, and the creaminess of cheese all baked into a beautiful pie. Not only is it a feast for the taste buds, but it’s also a show-stopper that will leave your guests asking for seconds. In this blog, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making a delectable homemade pasta pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients: To get started, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (rigatoni, penne, or ziti work well)
- 1 jar of your preferred pasta sauce (or homemade if you have it)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Cook it to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly
Preparing the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, eggs, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This will be the delicious filling for your pasta pie.
Assembling the Pasta Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Now, it’s time to assemble the pasta pie! Take each cooked pasta piece and fill it with a spoonful of the cheese filling. Place the filled pasta upright in the prepared pan, packing them tightly together until the bottom is covered.
Adding the Sauce: Once you’ve filled the bottom layer of pasta, spread a layer of pasta sauce over it. Add a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce. Continue with another layer of filled pasta, followed by sauce and cheese until you’ve used up all your ingredients. Ensure the final layer is cheese and sauce.
Baking: Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Serving: Allow the pasta pie to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing it from the springform pan. Slice it into wedges like a traditional pie and serve it warm with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread.
Conclusion: Making a homemade pasta pie might seem like a laborious task, but the end result is well worth the effort. The combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce baked into a scrumptious pie is a truly delightful experience for the palate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply yourself, this dish is sure to impress. So, don your apron, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy a heartwarming homemade pasta pie that will leave everyone craving more!
