Easy Pastitsio Greek Lasagna

why make this recipe

Easy Pastitsio, also known as Greek lasagna, is a comforting dish that combines layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. With its flavorful ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is great for anyone looking to add a taste of Greece to their home cooking.

how to make Easy Pastitsio Greek Lasagna

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or lamb with the chopped onion and minced garlic until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat, then stir in the nutmeg, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
6. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by the meat sauce, and then the remaining pasta. Pour the cheese sauce over the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

how to serve Easy Pastitsio Greek Lasagna

Serve Easy Pastitsio hot from the oven, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.

how to store Easy Pastitsio Greek Lasagna

If you have leftovers, allow the Pastitsio to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Easy Pastitsio Greek Lasagna

• For extra flavor, add some chopped olives or feta cheese to the meat sauce.
• You can substitute different types of pasta, like ziti or rigatoni, for penne if you prefer.
• Make sure to let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking to help set the layers before serving.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version by using lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. Just follow the same steps for cooking and layering.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Pastitsio ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Easy Pastitsio?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped. Bake from frozen, adding extra time if needed.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the texture.

Easy Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna)

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• Author: angela
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Omnivore

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Description

A comforting Greek dish combining layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 egg, beaten

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef or lamb with the chopped onion and minced garlic until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add the milk slowly, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat, then stir in the nutmeg, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
7. Layer half of the pasta in a greased baking dish, followed by the meat sauce, and then the remaining pasta. Pour the cheese sauce over the top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add chopped olives or feta cheese to the meat sauce. You can substitute different types of pasta, such as ziti or rigatoni, for penne if preferred.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 90mg