Name: Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 quart whole milk (warmed until hot); 1 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 medium onions (chopped); 2 pounds 90% lean ground beef; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Salt and pepper (to taste); 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 pound ziti pasta; 3 large eggs (beaten); 1 teaspoon salt; 12 to 16 ounces Kasseri or Kefalotiri cheese (grated)

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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich and hearty layers of Pastitsio, a traditional Greek lasagna. This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser, featuring a combination of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping that creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a cozy meal at home, Pastitsio is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Greek cuisine with this incredible recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

Pastitsio holds a special place in my heart for its comforting warmth and nostalgic flavors. Growing up, my family would often gather around the table for a hearty serving of this delectable dish. The way the pasta melds with the ground beef and cinnamon, topped with a silky béchamel, creates a unique flavor profile that is truly satisfying. It’s a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served on any occasion, making it a staple in my kitchen.

What You’ll Need

To create a mouthwatering Pastitsio, gather the following ingredients:

For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 quart whole milk, warmed until hot
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
For the Meat Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 pounds 90% lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
For the Pasta Layer:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 12 to 16 ounces Kasseri or Kefalotiri cheese, grated

Equipment & Tools

To prepare this delightful dish, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Skillet for meat sauce
Whisk for béchamel sauce
Baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
Mixing bowls
Spatula for mixing and spreading

Mastering Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna): How-To

Creating the perfect Pastitsio is all about layering flavors and textures. Follow these simple steps to master this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, season with ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, then let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the warmed whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in 3 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Eggs

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with 3 beaten eggs and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Pastitsio

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture as the first layer. Next, layer the meat sauce evenly over the pasta. Follow this with the remaining pasta mixture. Finally, pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the grated Kasseri or Kefalotiri cheese over the béchamel.

Step 6: Bake

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing into squares.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make some adjustments to the traditional recipe, consider these tweaks:

Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
Incorporate vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the meat sauce for extra nutrients.
Opt for low-fat milk in the béchamel sauce for a lighter version.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

Making Pastitsio can be straightforward, but here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Overcooked Pasta: Ensure to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Lumpy Béchamel: Whisk continuously while adding milk to prevent lumps from forming.
Dry Meat Sauce: If your sauce appears too dry, add a bit more water or broth for moisture.
Uneven Layers: Take your time assembling the layers to ensure even distribution for optimal flavor in every bite.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To enjoy your Pastitsio over several days, here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.

Don’t Miss These

If you love Pastitsio, you’ll also enjoy these delicious variations of lasagna:

Wrap-Up

Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna) is more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect with history, tradition, and loved ones. With its layers of flavor and comforting textures, it brings everyone to the table for a hearty feast. As you make this dish, remember that cooking is about joy, experimentation, and sharing delicious moments. So why not gather your loved ones, prepare this delightful Greek lasagna, and create lasting memories together? Enjoy every bite of your Pastitsio, and let it become a beloved favorite in your home, just as it is in mine.

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