Authentic Pastitsio Greek Lasagna Recipe 2

If you’re looking to transport your taste buds to the sunny delights of Greece but don’t have a plane ticket handy, then this Authentic Pastitsio Greek Lasagna recipe is just what you need. Pastitsio is a classic Greek dish that combines layers of pasta, seasoned meat, and creamy béchamel sauce, resulting in a comforting and flavorful meal that will surely become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let’s venture into the heart of Greek cuisine with this delicious recipe!

**Authentic Pastitsio Greek Lasagna Recipe**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Béchamel Sauce:**
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. **Prepare the Meat Sauce:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

3. **Spice It Up:** Season the meat mixture with cinnamon, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the diced tomatoes and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. **Make the Béchamel Sauce:** In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

5. **Temper the Eggs:** In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Slowly add a ladleful of the hot béchamel sauce to the eggs while whisking continuously. This process, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling when added to the sauce later.

6. **Combine and Layer:** Gradually stir the tempered egg mixture into the rest of the béchamel sauce until well combined. Fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne with half of the béchamel sauce.

7. **Assemble the Pastitsio:** In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture at the bottom. Top it with the meat sauce, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top. Pour the rest of the béchamel sauce over the pasta, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

8. **Bake and Serve:** Bake the pastitsio in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor in every bite!

This Authentic Pastitsio Greek Lasagna recipe is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Greek comfort food. The warm spices, rich meat sauce, and creamy béchamel come together beautifully to create a meal that is sure to impress your loved ones. So, channel your inner Greek chef and indulge in this savory delight that will transport you to the streets of Athens with every bite. Bon appétit!