Pastitsio is a traditional Greek baked pasta dish, similar to lasagna, but with a unique blend of spices and a creamy béchamel sauce. It is composed of layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a thick topping of béchamel. Perfect for a hearty family meal.
Preparation time
30min
Cooking time
45min
Ingredients
8 Servings
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 100 g butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 400 g crushed tomatoes
- 400 g dry pasta
- 2 eggs
- 100 g flour
- 2 garlic cloves
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 liter milk
- 1 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion
- 100 g parmesan cheese
- 120 ml red wine
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
Step 3
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
Step 4
Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6
To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes.
Step 7
Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg and beaten eggs.
Step 8
In a large baking dish, spread a layer of pasta, followed by a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of pasta.
Step 9
Pour the béchamel sauce over the top layer of pasta and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
Step 10
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 11
Allow the pastitsio to cool for a few minutes before serving.