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Homemade Pesto Bucatini Pie. photo

Pesto Bucatini Pie.

A cheesy, savory baked bucatini pie layered with pesto and melty cheeses for a comforting dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • 9-inch Springform Pan
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound bucatini pasta
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano plus extra for sprinkling
  • 3 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 pinch fresh ground black pepper
  • 8 ounces provolone cheese freshly grated; reserve 1 cup for mixing
  • 4 ounces mozzarella cheese freshly grated; use half in mixture and half for topping
  • 3/4 cup pesto plus more for topping
  • fresh basil for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and optionally wrap the outside bottom edge with foil to prevent leaks.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bucatini according to package directions, reducing the cooking time by 1–2 minutes so the pasta is al dente.
  • Drain the pasta in a colander and let it cool slightly. Toss briefly with a little olive oil if needed to prevent sticking.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, beaten eggs, minced garlic, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until smooth.
  • Stir in 1 cup of the grated provolone and half of the grated mozzarella, then add 1/2 cup of the pesto and mix until combined.
  • Add the cooked bucatini to the bowl and toss thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese-milk mixture.
  • Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared springform pan, pressing gently to even the top. Sprinkle the remaining provolone and mozzarella over the top and drizzle additional pesto as desired.
  • Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the center is set.
  • Remove from the oven and let the pie cool 10 to 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edge if needed, release the springform, slice into 6 to 8 wedges, and serve with extra pesto and fresh basil.

Notes

  • Trim baking time if you prefer a softer center.
  • Wrap the pan bottom in foil to prevent leaks.
  • Use freshly grated cheeses for best melting.
  • Let the pie rest before slicing to help it set.