If you're craving a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of Mediterranean flair, look no further than this Delicious Greek Pastitsio Casserole! This mouthwatering recipe layers tender penne pasta with a savory ground beef sauce, aromatic spices, and a rich béchamel topping that creates a golden, creamy crust. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Dive into this recipe and discover the secret to creating a true Greek classic that will have everyone raving!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, and season with cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add chopped parsley and simmer the meat sauce for 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Prepare the béchamel sauce by whisking together butter, flour, milk, and seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half the cooked pasta, then spread the meat sauce evenly over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta on top of the meat sauce, creating a second layer.
- Pour the béchamel sauce over the top, ensuring it covers the entire casserole evenly.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the béchamel sauce to create a golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Slice into portions and serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the penne pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This will prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Flavorful Meat Sauce: Don’t rush the simmering process for the meat sauce. Allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld for 15-20 minutes will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Perfect Béchamel: When preparing the béchamel sauce, whisk continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor even more.
- Layering Technique: For the best texture, be sure to layer the ingredients evenly. Start with half the pasta, then the meat sauce, and finish with the remaining pasta and béchamel to create a beautiful presentation.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the pastitsio.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
