Pastitsio

Indulge in a taste of Greece with Pastitsio, a classic comfort food that's as hearty as it is delicious. Layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy béchamel come together in this iconic dish that's sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (0.45 kg) penne pasta
• 1 lb (0.45 kg) ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare Meat Sauce

   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

3. Make Béchamel Sauce

   In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg.

4. Assemble the Pastitsio

   In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta, followed by the meat sauce, and then the remaining pasta. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and spread it out evenly.

5. Bake

   Bake in the preheated oven for about 45–50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving

Serve Pastitsio warm as a main course, accompanied by a crisp Greek salad and crusty bread. It's also delicious as leftovers and can be reheated easily for a quick and satisfying meal.

With its layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy béchamel, Pastitsio is a true Greek classic that's perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or served at a festive gathering, it's sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.