How to Prepare an Authentic Greek Pastitsio with Layered Pasta
Greek cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, hearty meals, and Mediterranean charm. One standout dish that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike is Pastitsio. It’s a comforting baked pasta casserole with layers of pasta, spiced meat sauce, and creamy béchamel. Think of it as Greece’s answer to Italian lasagna! In this article, we’ll guide you through how to prepare an authentic Greek Pastitsio in simple, easy-to-follow steps.
By the end, you’ll have a dish that’s both delicious and deeply rooted in Greek tradition. Let’s get started!
What is Pastitsio?
Pastitsio (pronounced pah-STEET-see-oh) is a layered dish that’s made with three main components:
1. Pasta: Traditionally long tubular pasta, resembling ziti or bucatini, is used.
2. Meat Sauce: A savory mixture of ground beef or lamb, canned tomatoes, and fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
3. Béchamel Sauce: A creamy white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk, enriched with cheese and eggs for extra flavor and texture.
These layers come together beautifully after baking, creating a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients for Greek Pastitsio
Here’s what you’ll need to make Pastitsio. The ingredients are simple and easy to find:
For the Pasta Layer:
- 400g (14 oz) of long tubular pasta (like bucatini or penne)
- Salt for boiling water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
For the Meat Sauce:
- 500g (1 pound) of ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 100g (½ cup) of butter
- 100g (½ cup) of all-purpose flour
- 4 cups of warm milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup of grated kefalotyri or Parmesan cheese
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Greek Pastitsio
Follow each step carefully, and you’ll create a dish that’s just like the one found in Greek kitchens.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s al dente (firm but not overcooked). Drain the pasta, then toss it with olive oil and half the grated cheese. Set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
- Set the meat sauce aside and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to form a smooth paste (called a roux).
- Slowly pour in the warm milk, a little at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Remove the béchamel from the heat and season it with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the egg yolks and grated cheese, mixing well. The sauce should be creamy and velvety. Set aside.
Assembling the Pastitsio
Now comes the fun part—layering the dish!
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a large baking dish with olive oil or butter.
- Add a layer of pasta to the bottom of the dish. Press it down slightly to create an even surface.
- Spoon the meat sauce over the pasta and spread it evenly.
- Pour the béchamel sauce over the meat layer and spread it out smooth and evenly.
- Sprinkle a bit of grated cheese on top for a golden crust after baking.
Bake the Pastitsio
Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Once done, allow the Pastitsio to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
Serving Greek Pastitsio
Greek Pastitsio is best served warm, with a crisp green salad on the side and maybe some crusty bread. It’s the perfect dish for sharing with family or friends. Don’t forget to garnish with additional cheese or fresh parsley if you like.
Final Thoughts
Greek Pastitsio is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors and tradition. The combination of pasta, spiced meat, and creamy béchamel is incredibly satisfying and perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners at home.
Once you master this recipe, you’ll understand why Pastitsio remains one of the most cherished dishes in Greece. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with every bite!
