Gail Simmons' Epic Spaghetti Pie
Try this Gail Simmons Epic Spaghetti Pie recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Gail Simmons Epic Spaghetti Pie recipe, or contribute your own.
- 3 large eggs
- kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
- unsalted butter for greasing the pan
- 3/4 lb broccoli or broccoli rabe trimmed, stems and florets chopped into 1/4-inch pieces (about 2 1/2 cups)
- 1 lb hot or sweet italian sausage removed from casings
- 1 (28-ounce ) can whole peeled tomatoes drained, tomatoes crushed by hand
- 1 lb dried spaghetti
- 3/4 cup whole milk (i substituted half & half)
- 2-1/2 cups (8 oz) grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 2-1/2 cups (8 oz) grated fontina cheese
- 1-1/2 cups (3 oz) freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese divided
- special equipment: 9 1/2-inch springform pan
- Carbohydrate 45.4730381976728 g
- Cholesterol 201.71627515 mg
- Fat 25.7679521078392 g
- Fiber 2.35616638895391 g
- Protein 20.5428322215503 g
- Saturated Fat 8.19025074643125 g
- Serving Size 1 1 to 10 (218g)
- Sodium 492.320933360941 mg
- Sugar 43.1168718087189 g
- Trans Fat 1.96600716338295 g
- Calories 501 calories
Step-by-step
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and set a rack in the middle position.
- Butter a 9 1/2-inch springform pan.
- Tightly wrap the bottom of the pan with a large sheet of aluminum foil, crimping the foil against the outer edges to tightly seal.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the broccoli and 1 tablespoon of water and cook until the broccoli is crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the sausage and cook, breaking the meat into small bits, until cooked through, about 6 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add the crushed drained tomatoes and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping any bits from the pan, until the liquid is mostly evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and set aside.
- Add salt to the boiling water and cook the spaghetti just until very al dente, 7 to 8 minutes (look for a white spot in the center when you bite into a strand).
- Drain the pasta (do not rinse) and reserve the pot.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, pepper, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
- Combine the spaghetti and milk mixture in the pot; add in the sausage-broccoli mixture, cheddar, fontina, and 1 cup of the Parmesan; stir until well combined.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared pan.
- Using a spatula, smooth the top.
- Set the pan on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until the edges are golden and bubbling, about 35 minutes. (Keep an eye on it; if the top starts to get too brown, cover with foil.)
- Remove the pan from the oven.
- Turn on the broiler.
- Sprinkle the pie with the sage and remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan.
- Broil 4 to 5 inches from the heat until the cheese is golden, 1 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn't burn.
- Remove from the oven and run a knife around the inside of the pan.
- Let the pie rest for about 10 minutes, then release and remove the sides of the pan.
- Cut the pie into slices and serve warm.
- Make Ahead: The pie can be assembled, covered, and refrigerated a day ahead of time, then baked right before serving. The unbaked pie may also be frozen for up to a month. The day before serving, remove the pie from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as directed.
Gail Simmons' Epic Spaghetti Pie: A Culinary Adventure
As a busy professional woman, juggling work deadlines and social engagements, finding time for elaborate cooking can feel like a Herculean task. Yet, the desire for a delicious, comforting meal remains strong. This is where Gail Simmons' Epic Spaghetti Pie comes in – a recipe that balances ease of preparation with an explosion of flavor, making it the perfect weeknight or weekend treat. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its adaptability. The recipe acts as a flexible framework, easily adjusted to suit individual preferences and dietary requirements. One could substitute different types of sausage, experiment with various cheeses, or even add other vegetables like mushrooms or peppers for a unique twist. The recipe's generous use of cheese adds a comforting richness, while the blend of savory sausage, crisp-tender broccoli, and tangy tomato creates a perfect harmony of flavors. This pie is more than just a meal; it's a culinary experience that satisfies both the soul and the palate.
The process itself is straightforward, even for those with limited cooking experience. The step-by-step instructions are clear and concise, guiding you through each stage effortlessly. The use of a springform pan simplifies the serving process, while the option to make it ahead adds an extra layer of convenience, perfect for busy schedules. Imagine preparing it on a Sunday afternoon, storing it in the refrigerator, and then simply popping it in the oven before dinner on a hectic weeknight. The result? A warm, inviting dish ready in minutes, saving you precious time and effort without sacrificing taste. The combination of the creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and flavorful sausage and vegetable mixture is simply divine. It's the kind of dish that transports you back to childhood memories of family dinners and cozy nights spent around the table, and it’s the kind of dish that effortlessly transforms a busy weeknight into a moment of comfort and joy. Each bite is a delightful journey through textures and tastes, a reminder that even amidst a hectic lifestyle, taking the time to create and share a beautiful meal is an invaluable experience. It's a dish that's sure to become a cherished staple in any busy professional's culinary repertoire.
Beyond the Recipe: Embracing the Culinary Journey
Cooking is more than just following instructions; it's a journey of discovery, creativity, and connection. It's about experimenting with flavors, adapting recipes to individual preferences, and sharing the joy of food with loved ones. This recipe for Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie isn’t just about the final product; it's about the process, the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering a new culinary skill. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You are free to experiment with different types of sausage, adding your favorite herbs and spices, swapping cheeses, or including other vegetables. The recipe is a starting point, a springboard for your own culinary adventures. Don't be afraid to let your creativity flow and personalize this recipe to reflect your own unique taste and preferences.
The importance of quality ingredients cannot be overstated. Using fresh, high-quality produce and flavorful cheeses will elevate this dish to a whole new level. Take the time to source the best ingredients you can find, and you’ll be rewarded with a richer, more satisfying culinary experience. This recipe is an invitation to embark on a culinary journey, to explore the possibilities of flavor and creativity, and to share the joy of cooking with those you love. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to inspire and delight. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a touch of creativity to create a truly unforgettable meal.
From Weeknight Dinner to Weekend Gathering: Adapting the Pie
The versatility of Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie extends beyond simple customization. It’s equally suited to a casual weeknight dinner as it is to a weekend gathering with friends and family. Imagine the warm glow of candlelight, the aroma of freshly baked cheese filling the air, and the happy chatter of loved ones around a table laden with this delicious pie. The dish easily lends itself to a larger-scale preparation, perfect for impressing guests or feeding a crowd. Double or even triple the recipe to cater to a larger group, and let the aroma alone create a welcoming and festive atmosphere. Prepare the pie components ahead of time – the sauce, the cooked pasta, and the cheese mixture – and assemble just before baking for effortless entertaining. It’s a dish that speaks of thoughtful hospitality and effortless elegance, bringing a touch of warmth and sophistication to any gathering. Its rich, comforting nature makes it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for a wide range of palates and preferences. Serve alongside a simple green salad and a crisp white wine, and you've got a meal worthy of any special occasion.
Beyond the Plate: The Joy of Shared Meals
Ultimately, the joy of this recipe transcends the simple act of eating. It's about the experience of creating something delicious, the satisfaction of sharing a meal with loved ones, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering a new culinary skill. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, taking the time to prepare and savor a home-cooked meal is an act of self-care and connection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe provides a simple yet rewarding culinary journey, allowing you to create lasting memories and experiences around the table. It's a recipe that’s more than just a meal; it's an invitation to gather, connect, and celebrate the simple pleasures of life, one delicious slice at a time. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with Gail Simmons’ Epic Spaghetti Pie.
