Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie – A Cheesy Italian Delight That Will Have You Coming Back for More

If you’re craving a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting Italian flavors, Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie is exactly what you need. This delightful pasta bake takes the simplicity of fettuccine and elevates it into a rich, golden masterpiece with the addition of ricotta cheese, butter, and eggs. Baked to perfection, it delivers a wonderfully satisfying experience in every bite—crispy on top and soft, cheesy goodness on the inside. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet hearty family dinner or a show-stopping side dish, this recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your household.

Scroll to the bottom for recipe!

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The Story Behind Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie

In every Italian household, there’s always that one dish that brings everyone together around the table, and this macaroni pie is no exception. Traditionally made for special occasions or big Sunday dinners, Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients and transforms them into a meal that is bursting with flavor and comfort. With a soft texture from the fettuccine and a rich, cheesy interior from the ricotta, butter, and egg mixture, this recipe is perfect for making you feel like you’re sitting in Nonna’s cozy kitchen, enjoying a slice of Italian culinary heritage.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie

This dish is more than just a pasta bake—it’s a celebration of Italian tradition and family love. The rich flavors of the ricotta, combined with the buttery pasta and a beautifully set custard of eggs, create a texture that’s creamy yet firm, making each slice irresistible. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and yet delivers big on flavor. The crispy edges from baking contrast perfectly with the soft, cheesy middle, making this pie a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish, side dish, or even reheated for a delicious lunch the next day!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 18g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fiber: 2g

While this dish is delightfully rich on its own, you can serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the meal.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie pairs wonderfully with Italian-style side dishes. A crisp green salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar can lighten up the richness of the pie, while roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers would make for a delicious side. For an extra indulgent meal, pair it with garlic bread or a focaccia, perfect for sopping up any of the creamy filling left on your plate.

For drinks, consider a nice Italian red wine such as Chianti, or keep it casual with sparkling water or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover macaroni pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it into the microwave or reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze this dish for up to two months—just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.

Fun Fact: Italian Macaroni Pies Through the Ages

In Italian cuisine, pasta pies like this one have been a go-to for generations. Originally made as a way to use up leftover pasta and cheeses, these pies have since become beloved staples of Italian home cooking. Whether served during the holidays or for a simple family meal, macaroni pies are a testament to the Italian ability to turn humble ingredients into something truly special. Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie is no exception, capturing the essence of old-world comfort in every slice.

Cooking Tips

• For a Creamier Pie: If you like your macaroni pie extra creamy, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the ricotta mixture.
• Use Quality Ricotta: The ricotta cheese is the star of this dish, so try to use the best quality you can find for the richest flavor.
• Get a Golden Top: For a beautifully browned top, consider placing the pie under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!

Optional Variations

• Add Some Herbs: For a fresh twist, stir in some chopped parsley, basil, or oregano into the ricotta mixture.
• Make It Cheesy: If you’re a fan of extra cheese, try mixing in some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a more robust flavor.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: For a heartier dish, mix in some sautéed spinach or finely chopped broccoli before baking. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

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Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
• 1 lb ricotta cheese
• 6 large eggs
• Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• Freshly grated Parmesan (for topping)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain completely and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Butter: Stir the butter into the hot pasta until completely melted and evenly coating the fettuccine.
3. Mix in the Ricotta: Add the ricotta cheese to the pasta and stir until fully incorporated, creating a creamy mixture.
4. Prepare the Eggs: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk the eggs together until well beaten. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the Mixtures: Slowly pour the egg mixture into the pasta while stirring continuously, ensuring the eggs are fully incorporated into the pasta mixture.
6. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Transfer the pasta mixture to the dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake the Pie: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is set.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pie rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Nonna’s Baked Macaroni Pie is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, offering warmth, comfort, and unforgettable flavors in every bite. With its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy baked top, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite for family dinners, potlucks, or even holiday celebrations. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!