Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Pastitsio, a traditional Greek lasagna that combines layers of hearty pasta, a spiced beef sauce infused with cinnamon, and a rich béchamel topping. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will impress everyone at your table. The creamy béchamel, paired with the savory meat and tender pasta, creates a satisfying meal that is both filling and flavorful. Whether served fresh from the oven or enjoyed as leftovers, Pastitsio is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 package pastitsio noodles (or mostaccioli)
- 4 cups kasseri cheese, grated
- For béchamel: 4 eggs
- 1 and ½ sticks unsalted butter
- 1 cup flour
- 5 and ½ cups whole milk
Instructions
- Make the meat sauce by cooking onions until translucent. Add ground beef until browned. Stir in tomato sauce and cinnamon; simmer for three hours.
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and cool slightly before mixing with one beaten egg.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer half the pasta in a greased lasagna pan, followed by one-third of cheese and meat mixture. Repeat layers.
- Prepare béchamel by melting butter, whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk until thickened. Mix in beaten eggs.
- Pour béchamel over the layered dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake for one hour until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg