Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of simmering spices and sautéing beef wrapped around me like a warm hug. There’s something about making Greek Pastitsio—this layered baked pasta dish that showcases the heart of Greek cuisine—that instantly transports me to sun-drenched shores and bustling family feasts. This hearty meal features tender pasta, a savory ground beef filling, and a velvety béchamel sauce that creates a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or joyful gatherings. When it comes to comfort food, Pastitsio stands out with its rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a sure crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days! Are you ready to dive into this culinary journey? Why is Greek Pastitsio a Must-Try? Comforting Layers: Each bite of Greek Pastitsio envelops you in layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy béchamel. It’s a dreamy combination that invokes cozy family days. Unique Flavors: The aromatic blend of spices—like cinnamon and cloves—adds a distinct Greek twist, elevating this dish beyond your average baked pasta. Time-Saving Delight: Perfect for meal prep, you can assemble this dish ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Whether for dinner parties or family gatherings, Pastitsio is a dish everyone will rave about. It’s a delicious way to impress your guests! Make It Your Own: Want a veggie-packed twist? Try using lentils or mushrooms instead of beef for a delightful vegetarian version. Explore versatility, just like in our Greek Chicken Burgers! Greek Pastitsio Ingredients For the Meat Sauce • Ground Beef – Main protein source; can mix with lamb or pork for added flavor. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; adds richness and flavor. Substitute with vegetable oil if needed. • Onion (large) – Provides sweetness and depth; grate or finely chop for a smoother texture. • Carrot (grated) – Adds natural sweetness and nutrients to the sauce. • Bay Leaves – Enhance the flavor; remember to discard them after cooking. • Cinnamon Stick – A key spice in Greek Pastitsio, infusing authentic warmth into the meat sauce. • Ground Cloves – Introduces warmth and complexity to the sauce’s flavor. • Dry Wine (1 cup) – Elevates the sauce’s profile; white, rosé, or red work beautifully. • Tomato Paste (¼ cup) – Deepens the meat sauce flavor; a crucial ingredient for a rich taste. • Pureed Tomatoes (2 cups) – The robust base for the sauce; can use canned or fresh tomatoes. For the Pasta Layer • Pastitsio Pasta (1 pound) – Traditional tubular pasta; bucatini or penne can work in a pinch for the Greeks! For the Béchamel Sauce • Grated Cheese (1½ cups) – A mixture of Kefalotiri and Parmigiano Reggiano for a creamy, flavorful finish. • All-Purpose Flour (1.2 cups) – Acts as a thickening agent to achieve that dreamy béchamel consistency. • Nutmeg – Adds a touch of warmth; freshly grated nutmeg imparts fantastic flavor. • Whole Milk (6 cups) – The base of the béchamel sauce, making it creamy and indulgent. • Large Eggs (2) – Helps to set the béchamel; adds to the velvety texture. • Fine Salt & Black Pepper – Adjust to taste for seasoning your delicious Greek Pastitsio. This ingredient list ensures that your Greek Pastitsio is full of rich flavors and wonderful textures, transforming your kitchen into a warm, inviting space ready to create cherished memories! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Pastitsio Step 1: Brown the Meat In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and sauté for about 8-10 minutes until it’s beautifully browned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring the meat cooks evenly and the juices evaporate, creating a rich flavor base for your Greek Pastitsio. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Spices Once the meat is browned, add a finely chopped large onion and 1 grated carrot to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir in 2 bay leaves, a cinnamon stick, a pinch of ground cloves, salt, and pepper, which will infuse the meat mixture with aromatic warmth. Step 3: Add Wine and Tomatoes Pour in 1 cup of dry wine, allowing it to bubble for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the alcohol cooks off. Then, stir in 2 cups of pureed tomatoes and ¼ cup of tomato paste. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes until thickened and rich, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, resulting in a hearty meat sauce. Step 4: Cook the Pasta While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of Pastitsio pasta and cook for about 7-8 minutes, just until al dente (3 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring the pasta remains firm during baking. Step 5: Assemble the Layers Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C) and grease a large casserole dish. In a mixing bowl, combine ⅔ of the cooked pasta with a generous handful of grated cheese. Layer this mixture in the bottom of the casserole dish, followed by the savory meat sauce, and top with the remaining pasta. This builds a hearty structure for your Greek Pastitsio. Step 6: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce In a medium saucepan, heat a bit of olive oil and whisk in 1.2 cups of all-purpose flour over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until golden and nutty in aroma. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently. This will form the creamy béchamel sauce for your dish. Step 7: Season and Enrich the Béchamel Allow the béchamel to cool for a few minutes, then stir in freshly grated nutmeg, salt, half a cup of grated cheese, and 2 beaten eggs. Mix until smooth, creating a velvety, rich sauce that will crown your Greek Pastitsio with an irresistible creamy layer. Step 8: Combine and Bake Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the assembled pasta and meat layers in the casserole dish, making sure the mixture coats everything well for a deliciously creamy finish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and slightly bubbling. Step 9: Rest and Serve Once baked, remove the Greek Pastitsio from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for slicing, allowing the layers to set properly. After resting, serve warm, and watch as your family savors each delightful layer of this hearty dish! Expert Tips for Greek Pastitsio • Layer Wisely: Ensure that each layer of pasta gets an adequate amount of béchamel; this helps maintain a balanced flavor in every bite of your Greek Pastitsio. • Resting Is Key: After baking, allow the Pastitsio to rest for at least 30 minutes. This lets the layers set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart. • Watch for Overflow: If using a standard casserole dish, keep an eye on the béchamel level to avoid overflow while baking. Use a deep dish if possible. • Cheese Secrets: Experimenting with different cheese combinations in the béchamel can elevate the dish. Try including feta for a tangy twist! • Flavorful Meat Options: Consider mixing ground beef with ground lamb or pork for a multi-dimensional meat sauce—this adds more depth to your Greek Pastitsio. Make Ahead Options Greek Pastitsio is a perfect dish for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meat sauce and béchamel up to 3 days in advance, simply refrigerate them in airtight containers. For best results, it’s advisable to store the cooked and cooled pasta separately to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your Pastitsio, layer the pasta, meat sauce, and béchamel in a greased casserole dish and bake as directed. Allow it to rest after baking, ensuring that each slice holds its shape beautifully. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to impress, all with minimal fuss! What to Serve with Greek Pastitsio? Nothing complements the rich, comforting layers of Greek Pastitsio better than a selection of fresh, vibrant side dishes and drinks. Greek Salad: A classic mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, this salad adds a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy Pastitsio. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt and cucumber dip enhances flavors with its tangy freshness, making each bite of Pastitsio even more delightful. Roasted Vegetables: Serve a medley of bright, roasted veggies for a hearty side that adds color and nutrition to your meal. Olive Tapenade: The savory olive spread offers a briny contrast to the rich flavors of the Pastitsio, creating a delicious flavor harmony. Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita rounds are perfect for scooping up bites of pasta and sauce, bringing an authentic Greek touch to your dining experience. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine complements the meaty sauce, enhancing the overall flavors of your comforting dish. Imagine a beautifully set table, where each element works in concert to elevate your Greek Pastitsio experience, making for a complete, heartwarming meal. How to Store and Freeze Greek Pastitsio Fridge: Store leftover Greek Pastitsio in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Freezer: Greek Pastitsio freezes beautifully, either baked or unbaked. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or reheating. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, and remove it for the last 10 minutes to achieve a crispy top. Greek Pastitsio: Deliciously Adaptable Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this Greek Pastitsio truly your own with these delightful variations! Vegetarian Alternative: Replace the ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based option. This not only packs in flavor but adds a delightful texture twist, proving that comfort food can be both nourishing and indulgent. Cheesy Spin: Experiment with cheeses in the béchamel, like feta, for a luscious tang that perfectly complements the richness of the meat sauce. A little experimentation goes a long way in placing your personal touch on this dish! Veggie Boost: Add layers of sautéed spinach or zucchini to infuse extra nutrition and flavor. The vegetables bring a lovely freshness, giving each bite a delightful, colorful twist. Spice It Up: Enhance the warmth of the dish by adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to your meat sauce for a hint of heat. This will elevate the overall flavor profile, making it an unforgettable culinary experience. Pasta Swap: If you can’t find Pastitsio pasta, don’t fret! Bucatini or penne are great alternatives, ensuring you still get that comforting layered feel. Cooking should always adapt, just like our beloved Greek Chicken Burgers. Creaminess Factor: For an extra creamy béchamel, try adding a splash of heavy cream along with the milk. This will create an even more indulgent sauce that everyone will drool over. Bake It Untouched: Want to save time? Assemble your Pastitsio in advance, skip the baking, and cover it tightly to store in the fridge. Just pop it into the oven when you’re ready to serve! With these variations, you’re all set to create a Greek Pastitsio that’s not only traditional but also uniquely yours! Greek Pastitsio Recipe FAQs What is the best type of ground meat to use for Greek Pastitsio? Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can enhance the flavor by mixing it with ground lamb or pork. Each meat has its unique qualities, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that suits your taste best! How should I store leftover Greek Pastitsio? After serving, you can store leftover Greek Pastitsio in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down first! When it’s time to indulge again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until it’s heated through and delightful again. Can I freeze Greek Pastitsio? Of course! Greek Pastitsio freezes wonderfully, either baked or unbaked. To freeze it, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For the best results, bake it straight from the freezer at 355°F (180°C), adding an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. What should I do if my béchamel sauce is too thick? Not a problem—this can happen sometimes! If your béchamel sauce becomes too thick, gradually whisk in a little more warm whole milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Just remember: take your time and add it slowly; you want a perfectly creamy béchamel to crown your Greek Pastitsio! Can I make Greek Pastitsio ahead of time? Yes, you can! Greek Pastitsio is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes covered with foil to reheat. This way, even the busiest of days can end with a comforting meal! Is Greek Pastitsio suitable for pets or those with allergies? Although Greek Pastitsio contains common allergens like dairy and gluten, which may not be suitable for everyone or their pets, you can modify the recipe! For those with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives and almond milk in the béchamel. Just be sure to check labels for any specific allergens relevant to your guests! Greek Pastitsio: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Experience Greek Pastitsio is a comforting layered baked pasta dish featuring tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a velvety béchamel sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsResting Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: GreekCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat Sauce1 pound Ground Beef can mix with lamb or pork2 tablespoons Olive Oil used for sautéing1 large Onion finely chopped1 cup Carrot grated2 Bay Leaves discard after cooking1 stick Cinnamon adds warmth1 teaspoon Ground Cloves introduces warmth1 cup Dry Wine white, rosé, or red work¼ cup Tomato Paste deepens flavor2 cups Pureed Tomatoes canned or freshFor the Pasta Layer1 pound Pastitsio Pasta can use bucatini or penneFor the Béchamel Sauce1½ cups Grated Cheese Kefalotiri and Parmigiano Reggiano1.2 cups All-Purpose Flour thickening agent1 teaspoon Nutmeg freshly grated6 cups Whole Milk for creaminess2 Large Eggs helps to set béchamelto taste Fine Salt & Black Pepper season to taste Equipment Large SkilletPotMixing bowlcasserole dishMedium Saucepan Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Greek PastitsioBrown the meat in a skillet with olive oil for about 8-10 minutes until browned.Sauté onions and grated carrots until softened, then add spices and bay leaves.Add wine, followed by tomatoes and tomato paste, simmer for 20-25 minutes.Cook Pastitsio pasta in salted water for 7-8 minutes, drain and rinse.Assemble layers in a greased casserole dish starting with pasta, then meat sauce.Prepare béchamel by whisking flour in oil, then gradually adding milk until thickened.Season béchamel with nutmeg, cheese, and eggs, then pour over the layers.Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown for 50-60 minutes.Rest the Pastitsio for 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 12IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg NotesAllow the dish to rest after baking for the best flavor and texture. Experiment with different cheese combinations for the béchamel sauce. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!