Pastitsio: A Delicious Greek Pasta Dish

Pastitsio is a delicious Greek pasta dish that is perfect for dinner. This hearty casserole combines penne rigate, ground beef, tomatoes, and spices, all topped with a creamy béchamel sauce.

Ingredients (for 4 servings)

• 500g penne rigate
• 1 kg ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup grated kefalotyri or pecorino cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Cook the penne rigate according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
6. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
7. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
9. Pour the béchamel sauce over the pasta mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle the grated kefalotyri or pecorino cheese over the top.
10. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with soy crumbles or chopped mushrooms.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour in the béchamel sauce with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Use soy milk and vegan butter in the béchamel sauce, and omit the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Substitute the ground beef with soy crumbles or chopped mushrooms.

Pastitsio is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Make it for dinner tonight and enjoy the delicious flavors of Greece!

FAQ

What is Pastitsio?

Pastitsio is a Greek baked pasta dish made with penne pasta, a meat sauce seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and a creamy béchamel sauce.

Can I substitute the penne pasta with another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the penne pasta with another type of pasta, such as ziti or rigatoni. However, be aware that the texture and cooking time may differ.

Can I make Pastitsio ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Pastitsio ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter version of the dish. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

Can I make Pastitsio without the béchamel sauce?

No, the béchamel sauce is an essential component of Pastitsio and cannot be omitted.

Can I use a store-bought tomato sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use a store-bought tomato sauce instead of making your own. However, we recommend adding the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for authentic flavor.

Can I use non-dairy milk for the béchamel sauce?

Yes, you can use non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy milk, for the béchamel sauce. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables, such as diced bell pepper or shredded zucchini, to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, instead of kefalotyri cheese. However, the flavor may be slightly different.

Can I make Pastitsio in individual portions instead of a large dish?

Yes, you can make Pastitsio in individual portions by using ramekins or muffin tins. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.