Old Chicago Baked Spaghetti Pie Recipe

Introduction

Hi there, I’m Ava and I love cooking. Today I want to share with you my favorite recipe for Old Chicago Baked Spaghetti Pie. It’s a classic dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I’ve been making this recipe for years and I’m excited to share it with you.

But first, let’s cover some interesting facts about this dish:

• Old Chicago Baked Spaghetti Pie originated in the Midwest in the 1970s.
• It’s a twist on traditional spaghetti and meat sauce, with the pasta baked in a pie dish with cheese and eggs.
• It’s a popular dish at Old Chicago restaurants, hence the name.
• It’s a great way to use up leftover spaghetti.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
7. Add the beaten eggs and mix until well combined.
8. Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish.
9. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
11. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

My Experience

I’ve made this recipe for my family and friends so many times, and it never fails to impress. The combination of spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese is a classic for a reason, but the addition of eggs and baking it in a pie dish takes it to the next level.

I’ve also experimented with different cheeses, like cheddar and Gouda, and they all work well. You can also add some vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat sauce for some extra flavor and nutrition.

I prefer to make this recipe ahead of time and let it cool completely before slicing and serving. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or parties, as it can be easily transported and reheated.

Expert Quotes

Old Chicago Baked Spaghetti Pie is a Midwest classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. The combination of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, and the addition of eggs makes it even more satisfying. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your liking.

Old Chicago Baked Spaghetti Pie is a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of family dinners and potlucks. It’s a great way to use up leftover spaghetti and turn it into a new and exciting meal. The eggs and cheese give it a quiche-like texture that’s irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni would work well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. It will be a lighter and healthier option.