Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, let me introduce you to my favorite recipe for Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna). This delightful casserole features layers of tender pasta, a savory cinnamon-laced beef sauce, and creamy béchamel topped with melty cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can make any gathering feel special, from busy weeknights to festive family dinners. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible!

What makes this recipe even more special is the fact that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can make the meat sauce the day before and let all those delicious flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and enjoy the smiles on everyone’s faces as they dig into this hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a cheesy lasagna! It’s a great way to get kids excited about dinner.
• Make-ahead convenience: Preparing the meat sauce in advance saves you time on busy days.
• Delicious layers of flavor: The combination of cinnamon in the beef sauce and creamy béchamel creates a unique taste you won’t forget.
• Impressive presentation: Layering the ingredients beautifully makes it perfect for serving guests.
• Comfort food at its best: This warm, filling dish will wrap you in a cozy embrace with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna) is easy with simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you need to gather:

For the Meat Sauce

• 3 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Coarse kosher salt

For the Pasta Layer

• 1 package pastitsio noodles or mostaccioli
• 1/2 pound or more kasseri cheese, grated (about 4 cups; asiago or an Italian blend work too)

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 4 eggs
• 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter
• 1 cup flour
• 5 1/2 cups whole milk

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this wonderful dish!

Variations

One of the great things about Pastitsio is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add some greens: Incorporate spinach or zucchini into the meat sauce for added nutrition.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding some nutmeg or oregano to enhance the flavor profile even more.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute lentils or mushrooms for ground beef for a hearty meatless version.

How to Make Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by making your meat sauce one day ahead. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent. This step brings out their natural sweetness! Next, add in the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink. Don’t forget to break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks! Stir in your tomato sauce and cinnamon, then let it simmer gently for three hours—this long cooking time allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Cook Your Noodles

When you’re ready to assemble your Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna), cook your noodles in boiling salted water until they’re al dente—aim for one minute less than what the package suggests. Drain them well and let them cool slightly. While they’re still warm, mix one beaten egg into the noodles using your hands. This helps bind them together and adds richness!

Step 3: Assemble Your Layers

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly oil your lasagna pan or coat it with cooking spray. Spread all of your noodle mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle a third of your grated kasseri cheese over these noodles, then use a slotted spoon to layer on most of your meat mixture—leave room for that luscious béchamel later! Top this layer with another third of cheese.

Step 4: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a heavy-bottomed pot, melt one stick of butter over low heat. Whisk in flour until well combined and cook this roux for about two minutes. Gradually add five cups of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until it starts bubbling gently—that’s when you’ll know it’s thickened just right!

Step 5: Combine Eggs with Béchamel

In another bowl, beat three eggs along with half a cup of milk using an electric mixer until blended smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into your béchamel pot while whisking continuously—this will enrich your sauce even further! Return to medium-high heat and continue stirring until thick and bubbly.

Step 6: Final Assembly Before Baking

After letting your béchamel rest for just a few minutes, carefully pour it over your assembled layers in the pan. Spread it out evenly across everything with care. Finish by sprinkling any remaining kasseri cheese on top and drizzling melted butter over it—this will help create that beautiful golden crust!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Set your pan on a baking sheet (just in case there are any spills) and bake in your preheated oven for about an hour until golden brown on top and heated through. If it’s not browned enough after an hour, turn on your broiler for an additional three to five minutes—but watch closely so it doesn’t burn!

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once baked, allow your Pastitsio to rest for ten minutes before slicing into squares for serving. This resting period helps everything set nicely so each piece holds its shape.

And there you have it! A comforting dish that’s sure to fill bellies and warm hearts—enjoy sharing this slice of Greek tradition with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)

Making Pastitsio is a rewarding experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Ahead: Preparing the meat sauce a day in advance allows the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your Pastitsio.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the Pastitsio to rest after baking helps it set up properly, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
• Use Quality Cheese: Opting for high-quality Kasseri or an Italian blend cheese will elevate the flavor profile of your dish, making each bite rich and satisfying.
• Experiment with Noodles: While traditional pastitsio noodles are great, using mostaccioli or even gluten-free pasta can add a fun twist while accommodating different dietary needs.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your meat sauce and béchamel before layering to ensure they are seasoned just right for your liking.

How to Serve Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)

Presenting your Pastitsio beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to showcase this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving can brighten up the dish and give it a delightful citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and oregano. This salad balances out the richness of Pastitsio perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized make a colorful and nutritious side.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill offers a refreshing contrast that pairs wonderfully with the warm layers of Pastitsio.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable Pastitsio experience that will surely impress family and friends! Enjoy every bite and let me know how yours turns out!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pastitsio recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, saving you precious hours during a busy weeknight or special occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the pastitsio to cool completely before storing.
• Item: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to an airtight container.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Item: Cut the pastitsio into individual portions for easy serving.
• Item: Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Item: Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
• Item: Place the pastitsio in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes, until warmed through.
• Item: For crispy top, remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes of heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna).

Can I make Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna) without meat?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein. Just season them well to get that delightful flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)?

The total time for preparing and cooking Pastitsio is approximately 5 hours, including resting time. This makes it a great recipe for weekends or special occasions!

Can I use different cheeses in Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)?

Absolutely! While kasseri cheese is traditional, you can experiment with asiago or other Italian blends that melt well.

What should I serve with Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)?

A fresh Greek salad or crusty bread would complement this dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Pastitsio is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its rich layers of flavor and creamy béchamel sauce make it truly special. I hope you enjoy making this delightful Greek lasagna as much as I do—and share it with your loved ones! Happy cooking!