Is there anything more comforting than the smell of pasta bubbling in the oven on a chilly evening? Growing up, I often found myself standing by my grandmother’s side, learning the magic of Italian-American cooking. She always told me that food has the power to create memories, nourish our hearts, and bring families together. That’s exactly what Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie does—it’s a celebration of flavors that warms your soul and fills your home with love.
Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen, the scent of sautéed garlic, onions, and Italian sausage dancing through the air. You can almost taste the rich tomato sauce mingling with perfectly cooked pasta as it transforms into a delicious pie that’s too good to resist. In moments like these, where every bite feels like a warm hug, food truly becomes a love language.
Why You’ll Love This Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie Recipe
The Comfort We Crave
Have you ever had one of those long days where all you want is to come home and sit down to the perfect, comforting meal? Life can be overwhelming, and amid juggling responsibilities, it’s easy to forget the joy that comes from a homemade dish. Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie delivers the comfort you crave. With its harmonious blend of flavors—rich and creamy pasta, savory sausage, and vibrant broccoli—this dish is the answer to your dinner-time dilemmas.
A Joyful Solution
What makes this dish truly special is its adaptability. Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie steps in like a dear friend ready to lend a hand. The impressive presentation of this pie, combined with its incredible taste, will have you smiling through every forkful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while your loved ones are busy enjoying every bite.
Quick Answer: The easiest way to make Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie creamy and rich is by using half & half instead of regular milk.
Ingredients Breakdown & Prep Tips
Ingredient List with Suggestions
Ah, the joy of gathering ingredients! Each item plays an essential role in creating this delightful dish. Let’s dive into the magic of these simple staples.
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | For greasing the pan |
| 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil | For sautéing |
| 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped | Aromatic base |
| 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped | Adds depth |
| 3/4 lb broccoli or broccoli rabe, stems and florets chopped 1/4 inch (about 2 1/2 cups) | Broccoli rabe adds pleasant bitterness |
| 1 lb hot or sweet Italian sausage, casings removed | Choose heat level to taste |
| 1 tablespoon tomato paste | Concentrated umami |
| 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes, drained, hand-crushed | Rustic texture and rich flavor |
| Kosher salt | Season to taste |
| 1 lb dried spaghetti | Or other long pasta |
| 3/4 cup whole milk (or half & half) | Half & half makes it creamier |
| 3 large eggs | For the custard/binder |
| 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper | Peppery bite |
| 2 1/2 cups (8 oz) grated sharp cheddar cheese | Melty, tangy base |
| 2 1/2 cups (8 oz) grated fontina cheese | Extra melt and creaminess |
| 1 1/2 cups (3 oz) freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, divided | Fold in some; reserve some for topping |
| 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage | Herbaceous finish |
Prep Method with Sensory Cues
- Setting the Scene: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and preheat your oven to 425°F. As you grease the 9 1/2 inch springform pan with butter, imagine the golden crust that awaits. Wrap the bottom tightly with aluminum foil—it’s a small step that ensures perfection.
- The Magic Begins: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, listening to that inviting sizzle. As the olive oil warms, toss in the finely chopped onions and garlic, stirring for just one minute before adding in the crisp-tender broccoli. The bright green color and slight crunch will be a delightful addition!
- Savory Sausage: Once the onion and garlic are fragrant and soft, add the Italian sausage to the skillet. As it browns and releases its delicious juices, you’ll be transformed into a culinary wizard in your cozy kitchen.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: In the boiling water, add salt generously, then cook the spaghetti until it’s very al dente, about 7-8 minutes. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t worry if it feels a tad underdone. Drain but don’t rinse—let those flavors cling on.
- Mixing the Goodness: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, pepper, and a touch of salt. Now, combine the spaghetti, the milk mixture, sausage and broccoli mix, cheddar, fontina, and 1 cup of Parmesan in the pot. Give it all a good stir, and take a moment to appreciate how wonderfully creamy it looks.
- Into the Oven: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, smoothing the top with tenderness. Bake until the edges are golden and bubbling—around 35 minutes, creating an aroma in the kitchen that makes your heart sing.
- Broiler Perfection: Turn on the broiler, sprinkle sage and the remaining Parmesan on top, and watch as it transforms into a beautiful golden bubbly delight—just 1-3 minutes but make sure to keep an eye on it!
- The Grand Finale: Let the pie rest for 10 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld together. Release it from the pan and slice into generous pieces, ready to serve warm to your eager family.
Discover more cozy recipes like Broccoli Cheese Soup or try a fresh flavor with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta.
Avoid These Mistakes
Common Mistakes & Fixes
- Overcooking the Pasta: It’s easy to forget that the spaghetti will cook further in the oven. Keep it slightly firm to the bite for that perfect texture.
- Under-seasoning: Don’t skimp on the salt while preparing the spaghetti and the sauce. A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out the flavors.
- Skipping the Sage: This herb brings a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. Don’t skip it even if fresh ingredients seem like a fuss!
- Not Letting It Rest: Resist the urge to dive in immediately! Allow the pie to rest so it holds its shape when you slice it.
Pro Tips to Get It Right
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your preference! Adding mozzarella or even a richer blue cheese will create a deliciously unique twist.
- Ingredient Substitution: If you’re feeling adventurous, switch out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Check out our Creamy Parmesan One Pot Chicken and Rice for more comfort meals or savor the flavors of Vegetable Stuffed Peppers.
Serving, Storage & Creative Variations
Best Ways to Serve It
The charm of Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie extends beyond just dinner. Serve it warm on family nights, alongside a crisp salad or perhaps as a centerpiece at holiday gatherings. Think of creating a cozy dinner with loved ones, where each slice invites conversation and laughter.
Storage + Seasonal or Dietary Variations
You can refrigerate any leftovers for a day or freeze them for up to a month. Imagine pulling a comforting slice of spaghetti pie from the freezer on a cold winter’s night!
For a seasonal twist, consider adding roasted vegetables during the fall months or fresh herbs in the summer. This dish is versatile and can easily accommodate various dietary needs—just swap out the pasta for zoodles or a gluten-free version!
For an easy salad pairing, try our Black Bean Corn Salad to add a refreshing note or entertain with our Garlicky Feta Chicken Salad.
FAQ SECTION
What can I substitute for the Italian sausage?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative that’s still packed with flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the pie a day in advance, and refrigerate it. Just warm it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
How long does the spaghetti pie last in the refrigerator?
It keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the spaghetti pie?
Yes, slice it and freeze individual portions. It can last up to a month—perfect for busy nights!
Conclusion
Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie brings so much joy to the table—each bite a warm reminder of the comfort found in cooking. Whether you’re gathering family or simply treating yourself, this recipe connects us to our past while fostering new memories.
If this dish brings back a memory, pass it on. Someone you love might need it today.
Find more heartfelt recipes like this in Linda’s Golden Kitchen, including comforting classics like Creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup or indulge with Blackberry Chocolate Cake!
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Epic Spaghetti Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Grease a 9 1/2 inch springform pan with butter and wrap the bottom tightly with aluminum foil.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add chopped onions and garlic, stirring for one minute.
- Add the broccoli and cook until bright green and slightly tender.
- Once the onion and garlic are soft and fragrant, add the Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.
- In boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until very al dente, about 7-8 minutes, then drain.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, pepper, and a touch of salt.
- Combine the spaghetti, milk mixture, sausage and broccoli mix, cheddar, fontina, and 1 cup of Parmesan, stirring well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake until the edges are golden and bubbling, approximately 35 minutes.
- Turn on the broiler, sprinkle sage and remaining Parmesan on top, and broil for 1-3 minutes.
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing into pieces to serve warm.