Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Pastitsio, a delightful Greek lasagna that layers tender pasta with a savory beef sauce and a creamy béchamel topping. This Mediterranean masterpiece is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, making it a crowd-pleaser that will surely impress your guests. Each bite offers a blend of rich spices and textures, creating a warming dish that’s even better the next day as leftovers. With straightforward preparation steps, this flavorful layered casserole is an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large red onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup red grape juice
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4½ cups milk (2%)
- ¾ cup grated Kefalotyri cheese (or Parmesan)
- 1 pound Pastitsio pasta (or bucatini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in red grape juice, crushed tomatoes, water, sugar, and seasonings. Simmer for about 30 minutes.
- For the béchamel sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour until smooth, then gradually add milk. Cook until thickened; season and mix in cheese and egg yolks.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse with cold water.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta followed by half of the meat sauce; repeat layers finishing with béchamel on top.
- Bake uncovered for about an hour until golden brown. Let rest before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 125mg