Greek lasagna, also known as "pastitsio" in Greek, is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. This traditional Greek dish is made with layers of pasta, flavorful meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it is also a great make-ahead dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouth-watering Greek lasagna.
Main Ingredients: Elbow Pasta, Meat Sauce, Bechamel Sauce, Olive Oil
If you're looking for a unique twist on traditional lasagna, try this Greek version known as Pastitsio. Layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel sauce make for a hearty and delicious meal. Serve with a Greek salad for the ultimate Greek feast.
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Main Ingredients: Pasta, Feta Cheese, Egg Whites, Lean Ground Beef, Red
This classic Greek dish is a must-try for any pasta lover. The layers of pasta, meat sauce, and béchamel sauce create a symphony of flavors in every bite. Don't be intimidated by the béchamel sauce - it's surprisingly easy to make and adds a creamy richness to the dish.
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Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, All Purpose Flour, Whole Milk, Salt
This classic Greek dish is a favorite in many households. Layers of pasta, a rich meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel sauce come together to create a comforting and hearty meal. Don't forget to sprinkle some grated cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
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Main Ingredients: Pasta, Egg Whites, Feta Cheese, Shredded Italian Blend
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Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Water, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Dried Oregano
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Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemon
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Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Butter, Chopped Onion, Minced Garlic, Ground
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GREEK BEEF STIFADO
Main Ingredients: Chopped Tomatoes, Cinnamon Sticks, Bay Leaves, Dried
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Main Ingredients: Chicken, Bone, Russet Potatoes, Kosher Salt, Freshly
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Main Ingredients: Dried Oregano, Dried Minced Onion, Garlic, Lemon
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- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Béchamel Topping:
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta
Start by cooking the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes. This will ensure that the noodles are slightly undercooked and will not become mushy when baked in the oven. Once cooked, drain and toss with olive oil and a pinch of salt to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the meat sauce
In a large saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add in the onion and garlic and cook until softened. Then, add in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, oregano, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
3. Make the béchamel topping
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the flour and whisk until combined. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the lasagna
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked lasagna noodles on the bottom. Top with half of the meat sauce, spreading it evenly over the noodles. Then, add the remaining noodles and top with the rest of the meat sauce. Pour the béchamel topping over the top, spreading it evenly to cover the sauce.
5. Bake and serve
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese and enjoy your delicious Greek lasagna.
In conclusion, this Greek lasagna recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful and hearty meal. With layers of pasta, meat sauce, and a creamy topping, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, with the option to make it ahead of time, it's the perfect dish for any busy weeknight or special occasion. Give this recipe a try and experience the delicious flavors of Greece in your own home.