Greek Macaroni Squares(Pastitsio)
Greek Macaroni Squares (Pastitsio) features layers of tender macaroni, savory meat sauce, and cheese, topped with cinnamon and custard, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large frying pan, sauté onions in butter until golden.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add tomato sauce, cinnamon, salt, and garlic; cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until thickened.
- Cook macaroni in salted water until barely tender, about 12 minutes; drain and rinse under cold water.
- Drain thoroughly.
- Butter a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer macaroni, meat sauce, and cheese alternately in the prepared pan.
- Dust the top with cinnamon.
- Pour custard sauce over the assembled layers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. You can substitute the ground beef with ground lamb for a more traditional taste. If you're short on time, using store-bought custard sauce can save you preparation time. Additionally, feel free to replace elbow macaroni with penne or ziti for a different pasta shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Greek Macaroni Squares with a side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a refreshing contrast. Pair it with Mediterranean recipes like Eggplant Tava for a complete meal. This dish also goes well with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. For a touch of brightness, consider garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Macaroni Squares(Pastitsio) contains roughly 321 calories, with 13g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1127mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Greek Macaroni Squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What is the best cheese to use for this recipe?
While Romano, Parmesan, or Kefalotiri are traditional choices, you can also use mozzarella for a creamier texture. Mixing different cheeses can enhance the flavor and richness of the dish.
Can I freeze Greek Macaroni Squares?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding additional time if necessary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).