Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel)

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table, you’ll love this Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel). It’s a cozy baked pasta layered with rich ground beef and a creamy béchamel sauce. This recipe is dear to my heart because it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions when you want to impress your friends and family with something truly delicious.

The best part? This Greek Pastitsio is not just tasty; it’s incredibly satisfying and makes for fantastic leftovers. Your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll become a pro at making this classic dish.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to eat!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices in the meat sauce creates a delightful depth of flavor.
• Comfort Food Classic: This hearty meal is perfect for any occasion, bringing everyone together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Greek Pastitsio recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Gather these items, and let’s get cooking!

For the Meat Sauce

• 2.4 pounds ground beef
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (grated or finely chopped)
• 1 carrot (grated)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup dry apple vinegar
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 2 cups pureed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta Layer

• 1 pound pastitsio pasta No2
• 1 ½ cups grated cheese (a mix of Greek Kefalotiri and Parmigiano Reggiano)

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 1.2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup olive oil
• Freshly ground nutmeg (about ⅓ of a nutmeg seed)
• 1 ½ teaspoons fine salt
• 6 cups whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups grated cheese (a mix of Greek Kefalotiri and Parmigiano Reggiano)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Sneak in some spinach or zucchini into the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
• Gluten-free twist: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.
• Cheese overload: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for unique flavors.

How to Make Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel)

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a deep pot over high heat before adding the ground beef. Let it brown on one side without stirring initially; this helps develop flavor. Once it’s browned, stir it up, breaking any lumps. Cook until all juices evaporate, then lower the heat. Adding onion and carrot will soften them up, releasing their natural sweetness into the dish.

Step 2: Season it Right

Once your veggies are soft, toss in bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, salt, and pepper. These spices bring warmth to your meat sauce! Carefully add apple vinegar; waiting a minute allows the strong flavors to mellow out before adding pureed tomatoes and tomato paste. Simmer until thickened—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add your pastitsio pasta and cook until al dente—remember it will continue cooking in the oven! Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking. Place two-thirds of the pasta in a greased casserole dish along with some grated cheese for that irresistible gooeyness.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Now it’s time for assembly! Spoon your flavorful meat sauce over the pasta layer evenly before topping it off with the remaining pasta. This layering technique keeps everything moist during baking while ensuring each slice has that perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Make the Béchamel Sauce

In another pot, combine olive oil and flour over medium-high heat until fragrant. Gradually whisk in milk while preventing lumps from forming—this step is crucial! Once thickened, add nutmeg, salt, cheese, and eggs one at a time while whisking well after each addition. This creamy béchamel is what makes this dish truly special.

Step 6: Final Assembly Before Baking

Pour your luscious béchamel sauce over the layered pasta and smooth out with a spatula. Don’t forget to sprinkle more cheese on top—it adds an extra crispy layer that everyone will love!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C) and bake for 50-60 minutes until golden brown with lovely dark spots on top. Let it rest for about half an hour before slicing—it helps hold everything together for serving.

Enjoy every savory bite of this delightful Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel)! It’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel)

Creating the perfect Greek Pastitsio is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious and satisfying dish.

• Choose the right pasta: Using pastitsio pasta No2 is essential as it holds up well during baking and complements the béchamel sauce perfectly. If you can’t find it, look for a similar tubular pasta like ziti or penne.

• Don’t rush the meat sauce: Allowing your meat sauce to simmer until most of the liquid evaporates enhances its flavor and ensures that your Pastitsio won’t be too watery. This step is key to achieving that beautifully layered texture.

• Whisk béchamel continuously: When making the béchamel sauce, whisk constantly to avoid lumps. This technique helps create a smooth, creamy texture that will melt beautifully on top of your pasta.

• Let it rest before serving: After baking, allow your Pastitsio to rest for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

• Experiment with cheese: While traditional recipes call for Greek Kefalotiri and Parmigiano Reggiano, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta for added creaminess. Just remember not to overload it!

How to Serve Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel)

Serving Greek Pastitsio is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the béchamel.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil. It provides a crisp contrast to the warm, rich flavors of Pastitsio.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant tossed in olive oil and herbs offer color and nutrition while complementing the hearty pasta.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and garlic serves as a cool accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the savory notes of your baked pasta.
• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is great for scooping up any leftover sauce on your plate while adding a delightful crunch alongside your meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your homemade Greek Pastitsio! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek Pastitsio is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. You can easily prepare it in advance and store it for later, making busy nights stress-free!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Pastitsio to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the baked Pastitsio completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For reheating, place slices on a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish.

What is Greek Pastitsio (Baked Pasta with Ground Beef & Béchamel)?

Greek Pastitsio is a comforting baked pasta dish layered with seasoned ground beef and béchamel sauce, often likened to lasagna but with uniquely Greek flavors.

Can I make Greek Pastitsio ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving for a delicious dinner any night of the week.

What can I substitute for béchamel sauce in Greek Pastitsio?

If you need a substitute, you can use a creamy white sauce made from plant-based milk thickened with cornstarch or flour to create a similar texture without using animal-derived ingredients.

How do I know when my Greek Pastitsio is done baking?

Your Pastitsio will be ready when the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Greek Pastitsio! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with family and friends. The layers of pasta, savory beef, and creamy béchamel create a heartwarming dish that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!