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Best Traditional Greek Pastitsio

Best Traditional Greek Pastitsio
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Indulge in the flavors of Greece with the Best Traditional Greek Pastitsio, a comforting baked dish that brings together layers of tender pasta, a savory meat sauce infused with aromatic spices, and a creamy cheese topping. Ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties, this dish is sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the table. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s a staple in Mediterranean cuisine that everyone will love. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and even frozen for those busy days when you crave something special.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb pasta (ziti or penne)
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft.
  4. Add ground beef or lamb; cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, nutmeg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes.
  5. For the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter; whisk in flour and cook until lightly golden. Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened. Stir in nutmeg, salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, then remove from heat and whisk in the beaten egg.
  6. Assemble by layering half the pasta in a greased baking dish, followed by all the meat sauce and remaining pasta topped with béchamel sauce.
  7. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummycookbase.com/best-traditional-greek-pastitsio/