There’s nothing like a hearty and flavorful Pastitsaki to bring everyone together at the table. This Greek-inspired dish, a comforting blend of pasta, creamy béchamel, and rich meat sauce, is perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400 g canned tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for that Greek touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 500 g penne or macaroni
- Salt for boiling water
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 1 liter milk
- 100 g butter
- 100 g all-purpose flour
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg yolk
Topping:
- 100 g grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese
Preparation
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. Lightly coat with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook briefly. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer until thickened, about 20 minutes.
Make the Béchamel Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and whisk in the egg yolk for extra creaminess.
Assemble the Pastitsaki:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, layer half the cooked pasta, followed by the meat sauce. Add the remaining pasta on top. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the top layer, spreading it with a spatula.
Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the grated cheese over the béchamel for that golden, bubbly crust.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Serving:
Let the Pastitsaki cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Pair it with a simple green salad or a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy, team—bon appétit! This dish is sure to bring warmth and smiles to the table. 😊✨
