Save A classic Greek casserole featuring layers of tubular pasta, savory spiced beef, and creamy béchamel sauce, baked to golden perfection.
I remember the first time I made Pastitsio for my family. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the kitchen, instantly bringing everyone to the table, eager to dig into this Greek favorite.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) bucatini or penne pasta, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 large eggs (beaten), 50 g (1/2 cup) grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
- Beef Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 garlic cloves (minced), 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 80 ml (1/3 cup) red wine, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 bay leaf, salt and pepper (to taste)
- Béchamel Sauce: 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, 60 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour, 800 ml (3 1/3 cups) whole milk (warmed), 2 large eggs, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 50 g (1/2 cup) grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese, salt and white pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Stir in butter, beaten eggs, and 50 g grated cheese. Set aside.
- Make Beef Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, nutmeg, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove bay leaf.
- Prepare Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly, until smooth. Simmer for 5 to 6 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat. In a bowl, whisk eggs. Slowly add a ladle of hot béchamel to the eggs, whisking to temper, then return egg mixture to the saucepan. Stir in nutmeg, cheese, salt, and white pepper.
- Assemble:
- Spread half the pasta in the baking dish. Top with all the meat sauce. Add remaining pasta. Pour béchamel over the top, smoothing evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and set. Cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Save Gathering around the table for Pastitsio always sparks stories about our trips to Greece. It&s a dish my kids ask for every holiday, knowing it means warmth and togetherness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature with a Greek salad and a glass of your favorite red wine.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, saucepan, whisk, and a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish help ensure smooth assembly and baking.
Allergen and Nutrition Info
Contains wheat (gluten), milk (dairy), and eggs. Cheese may contain animal rennet. Per serving: 630 calories, 29 g fat, 56 g carbohydrates, 33 g protein.
Save This Greek classic never fails to impress and comfort every guest at your table. Enjoy each slice and the memories it brings.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for pastitsio?
Bucatini or penne are ideal as their tubular shapes hold the meat sauce well and provide structure in the layered casserole.
- → How should the béchamel be prepared for this dish?
Whisk melted butter and flour to form a roux, gradually add warm milk to thicken, then temper with eggs, nutmeg, and cheese for a rich, creamy sauce.
- → Can ground lamb be used instead of beef?
Yes, using ground lamb adds a deeper, richer flavor, enhancing the authentic Mediterranean profile.
- → What spices enhance the meat sauce's flavor?
Cinnamon and nutmeg provide warm, aromatic notes that complement the savory tomato and beef base.
- → How long should the casserole rest after baking?
Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes to set and make slicing easier without losing its shape.
- → What cheese can substitute kefalotyri if unavailable?
Parmesan is a good alternative, providing a similar salty and nutty flavor character.