Pastichio
Pastichio is a hearty Greek baked pasta dish featuring layers of macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté the chopped onion in oil until translucent. Add the ground beef, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper, and simmer until cooked. Cook the macaroni until al dente and drain.
- Melt 1/4 pound of butter over the cooked pasta and set aside. Melt 1/2 pound of butter in a separate pan. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly to make a roux. Slowly add the milk, stirring until the mixture boils and thickens. Let cool slightly.
- Beat the egg yolks and incorporate them into the cooled milk mixture. Beat the egg whites until stiff and gently fold into the macaroni. Grease a baking pan and sprinkle the bottom with bread crumbs.
- Layer the cooked macaroni, the seasoned beef mixture, and sprinkle with grated Romano cheese in the pan. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the layers. Top with additional bread crumbs and cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like oregano or cinnamon to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a twist, try using a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, instead of just Romano. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
Pastichio is delicious when served with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. For a Mediterranean flair, pair it with Zucchini Rolls With Tomato Sauce or a fresh Greek salad. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors beautifully, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastichio contains roughly 1523 calories, with 18g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1713mg per serving (74% 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 pastichio ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pastichio a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Romano cheese?
You can substitute grated Parmesan, Pecorino, or a mix of mozzarella and feta for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will alter the taste slightly, but they all work well in this dish.
Is it possible to freeze pastichio?
Yes, pastichio freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly in foil or place in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).