Pastitsio

Pastitsio

Pastitsio is a hearty and delicious three-layer Greek dish similar to lasagna and will be a showstopper at your next dinner.

Ingredients

  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup flour
  • 1 quart whole milk

    warmed

  • 1½ tsp salt
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 3 oz Kefalotyri cheese

    sub Parmesan or Romano

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 red onions

    chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves

    minced

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ cup red wine
  • ½ cup water
  • ⅛ tsp cinnamon
  • 1 bay leaf
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb ziti
  • 2 egg whites
  • 3 oz Kasseri cheese

    grated, can sub for Parmesan

Directions

  1. 1

    Melt 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and saute until soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add in the garlic and cook until fragrant.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour, and then slowly add in the warmed milk, whisking continuously. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring so it doesn't stick, until smooth and thick. It should be able to coat the back of a spoon.

  3. 3

    Cook the ziti 2 - 3 minutes less than the package instructions. (To ensure it won't get too soft when the dish is baked). Drain and rinse with cool water.

  4. 4

    Preheat oven to 350℉. Spray a deep 9x13 inch dish with nonstick spray.

Pastitsio

Pastitsio

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About this Recipe

Craving a deeply satisfying dish that’s both comforting and impressive? This Pastitsio recipe delivers a hearty, three-layer Greek masterpiece, often called "Greek lasagna," that's guaranteed to be a showstopper at your next dinner gathering.

This recipe shines through its meticulously crafted layers. A rich, creamy béchamel sauce, elevated with Kefalotyri cheese and two egg yolks for silkiness, crowns a savory ground beef and tomato filling. The meat sauce is deeply flavored with red wine, beef bouillon, and a hint of cinnamon, a classic Greek touch, all layered over perfectly cooked ziti pasta.

Expect a truly robust and delightful culinary experience. Each generous portion offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes: the luxurious, cheesy béchamel, the intensely savory and aromatic meat filling, and the tender yet firm ziti pasta. This substantial dish is designed to satisfy, providing a taste of authentic Greek comfort food that feels both exotic and familiar.

Feel free to adjust the cheeses based on what you have on hand. If Kefalotyri cheese is hard to find, Parmesan or Romano make excellent substitutes in the béchamel. Similarly, Kasseri cheese for the top layer can be swapped with Parmesan for a delicious golden crust.

Serve this magnificent Pastitsio as the centerpiece of a special family dinner or a festive meal with friends. It's a complete meal in itself, perfect for gathering around the table.

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