Greek Pastitsio Classic Casserole

Greek Pastitsio is a beloved classic casserole that brings together tender tubular pasta, richly spiced beef, and a luscious creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is treasured in Greek households for its comforting layers and golden baked top, making it perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.

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Every bite of Pastitsio delivers a harmonious blend of savory meatiness and creamy comfort, making it an enduring favorite across generations. This hearty dish showcases the Mediterranean love for spices and cheeses in a way that's both approachable and impressive.

Ingredients

• Pasta
  • 400 g (14 oz) bucatini or penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 50 g (1/2 cup) grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
• Beef Sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 80 ml (1/3 cup) red wine
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• Béchamel Sauce
  • 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter
  • 60 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
  • 800 ml (3 1/3 cups) whole milk, warmed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 50 g (1/2 cup) grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and white pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.

2. Prepare the pasta

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Stir in butter, beaten eggs, and 50 g grated cheese. Set aside.

3. Make the beef sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned.

4. Add tomatoes and spices

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, nutmeg, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove bay leaf.

5. Prepare the béchamel sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly, until smooth. Simmer for 5–6 minutes until thickened.

6. Temper eggs and finish béchamel

Remove from heat. In a bowl, whisk eggs. Slowly add a ladle of hot béchamel to the eggs, whisking to temper, then return egg mixture to the saucepan. Stir in nutmeg, cheese, salt, and white pepper.

7. Assemble the casserole

Spread half the pasta in the baking dish. Top with all the meat sauce. Add remaining pasta. Pour béchamel over the top, smoothing evenly.

8. Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and set. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the perfect béchamel consistency, stir continuously to prevent lumps. Use whole milk warmed slightly to avoid shocking the flour mixture. Letting the casserole cool before slicing helps maintain its layered structure.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute ground lamb for beef to enhance the richness and authenticity of the dish. If kefalotyri cheese is unavailable, Parmesan serves as a great alternative without compromising flavor.

Serviervorschläge

Pastitsio pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad and a glass of robust red wine, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

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This Greek Pastitsio recipe invites you to savor the comforting flavors of the Mediterranean while enjoying the rewarding process of building layers of love and tradition. Whether served for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, its timeless appeal never fails to impress and delight.

Recipe FAQ

→ What pasta works best for this dish?

Traditional tubular pasta like bucatini or penne holds the layers well and provides the perfect texture.

→ How do I achieve the creamy béchamel topping?

Slowly whisk warm milk into a butter-flour roux, simmer until thickened, then temper in eggs and cheese for a smooth, creamy finish.

→ Can I substitute another meat for the beef?

Ground lamb offers a richer flavor, but beef remains classic. Ensure to brown it well and season appropriately.

→ How long should the dish rest after baking?

Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes to let the layers set for clean, easy slices.

→ What spices add character to the meat sauce?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and bay leaf complement the tomato and garlic base, giving the sauce its signature warmth and depth.