Pastitsio (Παστίτσιο) Recipe

Here’s a recipe for Pastitsio (Παστίτσιο), a beloved Greek dish that’s perfect for a hearty family meal! This baked pasta with meat sauce and béchamel is a true comfort food.

Pastitsio (Παστίτσιο)

Ingredients:

• 500g pasta (preferably bucatini or penne)
• 500g minced beef (or lamb, if preferred)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:

• Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
• Add the minced meat and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, cinnamon, and bay leaves.
• Pour in the red wine (if using) and cook until the alcohol evaporates. Then add the crushed tomatoes and nutmeg. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Béchamel Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
• Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
• Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Once the sauce has cooled slightly, whisk in the eggs to make it creamy.

Assemble the Pastitsio:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta on the bottom. Top with the meat sauce, spreading it evenly.
• Add the remaining pasta on top of the meat sauce and pour the béchamel sauce over the pasta, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
• Sprinkle with a bit more Parmesan cheese if desired.

Bake:

• Bake the Pastitsio in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy Your Meal!

This Pastitsio is a satisfying and comforting dish that will fill your home with the delightful aroma of baked pasta, meat, and béchamel. Perfect for gatherings or a family dinner!