AUTHENTIC PASTITSIO GREEK LASAGNA – THE ULTIMATE GREEK COMFORT FOOD

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Pastitsio is a beloved Greek casserole made with layers of pasta, rich cinnamon-spiced meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping baked until golden and bubbly. This hearty, comforting dish is often called “Greek Lasagna” and is perfect for family dinners and special gatherings.

Ingredients

Meat Sauce

  • 3 lbs ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Pasta Layer

  • 1 lb pastitsio pasta, ziti, or penne
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Béchamel Sauce

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 3 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Meat Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the onion until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
  4. Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

2. Prepare the Pasta

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain and let cool slightly.
  3. Toss with the beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese.

3. Make the Béchamel

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
  4. Cook until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. Whisk in eggs, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Pastitsio

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Spread half of the pasta evenly in the dish.
  4. Add the meat sauce layer.
  5. Top with the remaining pasta.
  6. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the top.

5. Bake

  1. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
  2. Let rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

6. Serve

  1. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Tips

  • Letting the casserole rest before slicing helps it hold its shape.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor.
  • A pinch of nutmeg in the béchamel adds authentic Greek flavor.
  • Pastitsio tastes even better the next day.

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour 20 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 50 minutes

Servings

10–12 servings

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 650–800 kcal
  • Protein: 35–45 g
  • Fat: 35–45 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40–50 g
  • Fiber: 3–4 g
  • Sugar: 6–8 g

Conclusion

Authentic Pastitsio Greek Lasagna is a rich and comforting Mediterranean classic featuring layers of tender pasta, cinnamon-spiced beef, and creamy béchamel. It’s a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd and bringing a taste of Greece to your table.

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