Pastitso(Greek Lasagne)
Pastitso is a hearty Greek casserole featuring layers of seasoned meat sauce, pasta, and creamy bechamel, perfect for comforting family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the hamburger along with the yellow onion in olive oil until the onion is clear.
- Drain the grease, then add chopped parsley, crushed garlic, cinnamon, tomato sauce, and white wine.
- Let this mixture cook together for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the lasagne noodles until al dente and drain.
- Layer the cooked noodles in a greased baking dish, add the meat sauce on top.
- Pour melted butter over the noodles, then beat eggs and pour over the top.
- Sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan cheese on the surface.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the Bechamel sauce. You can substitute ground turkey for hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. Fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can enhance the meat sauce—feel free to experiment! If you don't have white wine, chicken broth works as a great substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pastitso with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice for a fresh contrast. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. This dish also goes well with Mediterranean recipes like Zucchini Boats With Ham And Vegetable Stuffing for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pastitso(Greek Lasagne) contains roughly 909 calories, with 31g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (188% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), and potassium (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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 Pastitso ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, layering the noodles, meat sauce, and cheese. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking, or adjust the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for Bechamel sauce?
If you're looking for a quicker alternative, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce or a mixture of ricotta cheese and milk seasoned with nutmeg. However, making homemade Bechamel adds a traditional touch that complements the dish beautifully.
Can I freeze Pastitso?
Yes, you can freeze Pastitso before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).