Pastitsio, often called Greek lasagna, has layers of cinnamon-spiced beef, penne, and a rich béchamel topping for the most amazing baked pasta dish the whole family will enjoy!
Preparation Time
20 mins
Cooking Time
1 hr 30 mins
Total Time
1 hr 50 mins
Calories
556 Calories
Recipe Instructions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
Step 2
Bake in the preheated oven until bubbling and golden brown on top, about 50 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
Step 3
Make the meat sauce: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook and stir gently until onion is soft, 3 to 5 minutes. Increase heat and add ground beef; cook and stir until browned and crumbly, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, wine, broth, tomato paste, parsley, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and clove. Cover and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes.
Step 4
Meanwhile prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until tender yet firm to the bite, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain.
Step 5
Pour melted butter, 1/4 cup grated cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over pasta; toss well and cool briefly. Add 2 eggs and toss again; set aside.
Step 6
Make the béchamel: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add flour; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Pour in milk and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cool slightly before stirring in 1 cup grated cheese, beaten egg, and egg yolk.
Step 7
Stir 1/2 cup of béchamel sauce into meat sauce.
Step 8
To assemble pastitsio: Arrange pasta in the bottom of the prepared baking dish so that all of the noodles are nicely lined up and are as level as possible for a great visual effect when serving. Spoon meat sauce over pasta; top with remaining béchamel sauce, spreading evenly. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup grated cheese on top.
