Greek cuisine is rich in tradition and flavour, and few dishes embody this as perfectly as Pastitsio. Often referred to as the Greek version of lasagna, Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish that layers creamy béchamel sauce, hearty meat, and pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish is a staple in Greek households, especially during family gatherings and holidays. The combination of spiced meat sauce, tubular pasta, and the rich, velvety béchamel topping makes it a dish that is loved by many. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to create this beloved Greek classic at home.
What is Pastitsio?
Pastitsio is a traditional Greek casserole dish, typically made with layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a thick béchamel sauce. The pasta commonly used is bucatini or another tubular pasta, which holds up well under the weight of the other layers. The meat sauce is usually made with ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork, spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, giving it a uniquely Greek flavor profile. The dish is topped with a thick layer of béchamel sauce, made from butter, flour, milk, and eggs, which turns golden and slightly crispy when baked.
This dish is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply when you want to enjoy a taste of Greece in your own home. The recipe may seem complex, but with a bit of preparation, you can create a delicious Pastitsio that rivals any taverna in Greece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Pastitsio, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Meat Sauce:
- 800g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 400g canned tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta Layer:
- 500g bucatini or penne pasta
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
Béchamel Sauce:
- 100g butter
- 100g flour
- 1 liter of milk
- 2 large eggs
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it browns evenly. Pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer until the alcohol evaporates, and the liquid reduces slightly. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
2. Cook the Pasta
While the meat sauce is simmering, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Stir in the beaten eggs and grated cheese, making sure to coat the pasta evenly. The eggs will help bind the pasta together in the final dish.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously until it forms a smooth paste, known as a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook, whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before whisking in the eggs, one at a time. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
4. Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large baking dish, spread the pasta mixture evenly on the bottom. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta layer, spreading it out evenly. Then pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it out to cover the pasta completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Allow the Pastitsio to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the layers set, making it easier to cut. Serve with a fresh Greek salad and enjoy a taste of Greece in your own home.
Pastitsio is the ultimate Greek comfort food, perfect for sharing with family and friends. While it requires some effort, the result is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s worth every step. We encourage you to try this recipe at home and experience the authentic taste of Greek cuisine. If you prefer a ready-made option, you can always order directly from The Greek Deli’s online shop, where you’ll find a variety of traditional Greek dishes ready to enjoy.
The Greek Delicatessen Online Shop
Visit our dedicated e-shop for delicious Greek food items available both for cooking as well as immediate consumption. The Greek Deli stocks artisanal products, including Greek juices, tsoureki, egg dyes, olive oils, wines, cheeses, and mezedes. In addition, ready meals (such as pastitsio and gemista), sweets (such as baklava and kourabiedes), and Greek coffee (Loumidis) can be found in our online shop. We even stock beloved Greek chocolates and cookies. Furthermore, brands such as Lacta, Ion, Sokofreta, and Gemista cookies, as well as an impressive selection of Greek wines. You can purchase and customise our unique Greek gift boxes, with your favourite products or pre-made. One box includes extra virgin olive oil, two bottles of wine and two jars of olive paste. Along with roasted peppers, honey, chilies, and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for sending the best of Greek tastes to a distant beloved!).
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