Introduction
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie! If you’re a fan of the classic Italian carbonara pasta dish and love a good pie, then this recipe is perfect for you. With its creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy spaghetti crust, this dish is a unique twist on traditional carbonara. It’s a great option for a comforting dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this mouthwatering Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie.
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
– 8 ounces of spaghetti
– 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Steps
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s go through the steps to make this delightful Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie:
Step 1: Preparing the Spaghetti Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked spaghetti and let it cool for a few minutes. In a large bowl, beat 2 eggs and add the cooled spaghetti, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Forming the Crust and Filling
Grease a 9-inch pie dish with some cooking spray or butter. Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the pie dish and press it evenly along the bottom and up the sides to form a crust. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 eggs, heavy cream, remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, cooked and shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and a pinch of black pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Assembling and Baking
Pour the chicken carbonara filling over the spaghetti crust in the pie dish. Spread it evenly to ensure every bite is full of flavor. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie with these variations:
– Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
– Seafood Twist: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp or crab meat for a delightful seafood carbonara pie.
– Spice it up: If you like a little kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy twist.
Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie turns out perfectly:
1. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Let the spaghetti cool slightly before mixing it with the eggs and other ingredients to avoid scrambling the eggs.
3. Make sure to press the spaghetti crust firmly against the pie dish to create a sturdy base.
4. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving to ensure clean, neat slices.
Conclusion
Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie is a delightful fusion of two beloved dishes. With its crispy spaghetti crust and creamy, cheesy filling, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this unique twist on carbonara pasta!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Q: Can I freeze the Chicken Carbonara Spaghetti Pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Q: How long will the leftovers last?
A: The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: While spaghetti works best for the crust, you can experiment with other types of pasta for the filling. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli would all work well in this recipe.
