If you’re looking to impress your family or guests with a comforting, hearty dish, you’ve landed in the right place! This Pastitsio Greek Lasagna is a wonderful twist on traditional lasagna that brings layers of pasta, spiced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce together in one delicious bake.
It’s a perfect dish for celebrations or cozy family dinners, and the best part? It’s a crowd-pleaser that allows you to savor the rich flavors of Greek cuisine right at home.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This Pastitsio is more than just a lasagna; it’s an experience in a dish.
The combination of crunchy pasta, savory meat, and a luscious creamy topping makes every bite a delight.
Whether you’re already a fan of Greek food or trying it for the first time, this recipe will have you falling in love with Greek flavors.
Plus, it’s a great way to make use of ingredients you might already have in your pantry.
Ingredients
To make this delightful Pastitsio Greek Lasagna, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) dried pasta (Pastitsio No. 2 pasta preferred, but you can also use bucatini or penne)
- 4 ounces (113 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 egg whites, beaten
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef, or you can use ground turkey for a lighter option
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup tomato sauce (you can use marinara or homemade sauce)
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (or a plant-based substitute if preferred)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (dairy or your favorite non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (like Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative, optional)
How To Make Pastitsio Greek Lasagna
Ready to bring this delicious dish to life? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Pastitsio Greek Lasagna.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
First, cook the pasta of your choice according to the package instructions.
Make sure to slightly undercook it, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain and set aside, but make sure to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
Once the meat is cooked, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and nutmeg, followed by the tomato sauce and water.
Stir well to combine, then season with salt and pepper.
Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until you have a smooth paste.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in a pinch of salt, and you can add your grated cheese if desired for an extra kick of flavor.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Feta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the crumbled feta cheese and the beaten egg whites.
Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
This will give your pasta a wonderful creaminess and a slight tang from the feta.
Step 5: Assembly Time!
Now it’s time to layer everything.
Begin by spreading half the pasta mixture at the bottom of a greased baking dish.
Next, spoon the meat sauce evenly over the pasta.
Top with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly.
Finally, pour the béchamel sauce over the top, making sure to cover all the pasta.
Step 6: Bake the Pastitsio
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing, as this will help the layers set.
Expert Tips
- Make sure to undercook the pasta slightly, as it will absorb some of the sauce while baking.
- You can make the meat sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for easy assembly later.
- For added flavor, you can mix some chopped parsley or oregano into the meat sauce.
- This dish can be topped with a sprinkle of bread crumbs before baking for a crunchy texture.
Variations and Customizations
- If you want a vegetarian version, swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
- Try different cheeses like ricotta or a lactose-free option for the béchamel sauce.
- For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Layer in some spinach or zucchini between the pasta layers for an extra dose of veggies.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This Pastitsio often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
FAQ
Can I make Pastitsio ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator.
Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! While traditional pastitsio uses a specific type of pasta, any pasta like bucatini or penne works well.
Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions for the pasta you choose.
Is Pastitsio similar to lasagna?
Yes, Pastitsio is often referred to as Greek lasagna due to its layered structure, but it has its own unique flavors and presentation that set it apart from traditional Italian lasagna.
What can I serve with Pastitsio?
A simple Greek salad or some roasted vegetables would complement this dish perfectly.
You could also serve it with a side of tzatziki for a refreshing touch.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delicious recipe for Pastitsio Greek Lasagna that is sure to win hearts and fill bellies! The comforting layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy béchamel create a wonderful harmony of tastes and textures.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy it with your loved ones and let the flavors transport you to a Greek tavern.
Happy cooking!
Pastitsio Greek Lasagna
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Saucepan
- Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound Dried Pasta (Pastitsio No. 2, Bucatini, or Penne) Preferred type is Pastitsio No. 2.
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound Ground Beef or Turkey Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Can use marinara or homemade sauce.
- 1/2 cup Water
Béchamel Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Butter Or a plant-based substitute if preferred.
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Milk Dairy or your favorite non-dairy milk.
- 4 ounces Feta Cheese, crumbled
- 2 egg whites Beaten Egg Whites
- 1/2 cup Grated Cheese (like Parmesan, optional) Can use a dairy-free alternative.
Seasoning
- to taste Salt and Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, slightly undercooking it. Drain and toss with olive oil.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, tomato sauce, and water. Season with salt and pepper and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in salt and optional grated cheese.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, crumbled feta, and beaten egg whites. Mix well.
- Step 5: In a greased baking dish, layer half the pasta mixture, followed by the meat sauce, then the remaining pasta, and top with béchamel sauce.
- Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool before slicing.
