Pastitsio Recipe

Short Description

Pastitsio is a traditional Greek baked pasta dish layered with a rich tomato meat sauce, tender pasta, and a creamy béchamel topping. Comforting and hearty, it’s the ultimate Mediterranean casserole—perfect for gatherings or special family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep layers of savory flavor from beef, lamb, and spices
• Creamy, cheesy béchamel that adds luxurious texture
• Perfect make-ahead meal for entertaining
• A Greek classic that feels both rustic and elegant
• Complete, satisfying dish that needs no sides

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Tomato Meat Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Béchamel Sauce:
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 stick salted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup sheep yogurt or Greek yogurt

Pasta Layer:
• 3/4 pound small shell pasta

Optional Toppings:
• Chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Make The Tomato Meat Sauce:

1. In a large pot or deep pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef and lamb. Cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking apart with a spoon, until no longer pink.
3. Drain excess fat, add balsamic vinegar, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, cinnamon, oregano, and thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 45 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare The Béchamel:
7. In a saucepan, heat milk and cream over low heat until simmering.
8. In another saucepan, melt butter. Add flour and whisk constantly over medium heat for 2 minutes.
9. Gradually pour in the milk mixture, whisking until smooth and thick, about 5–7 minutes.
10. Stir in nutmeg, salt, pepper, half the Pecorino or Parmesan, and 1/2 cup of the tomato meat sauce. Let cool for 10 minutes.
11. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Stir them into the béchamel along with the yogurt.

Assemble The Pastitsio:
12. Cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
13. Combine the cooked pasta with the remaining tomato meat sauce and transfer to a large baking dish.
14. Spread the béchamel sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
15. Bake for 1 hour, until golden brown. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 8 to 10
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including sauce and bake time)
• Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground pork or turkey for beef or lamb
• Add a pinch of clove or allspice to the sauce for deeper flavor
• Use penne or ziti if shell pasta is unavailable
• Add a layer of sautéed eggplant or zucchini before the pasta
• Make it gluten-free using GF pasta and flour alternatives

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual slices
• Can be frozen whole or in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating
• Béchamel may separate slightly after freezing but still tastes delicious

FAQs

What Is Pastitsio Similar To?

It’s often compared to lasagna but uses different pasta and features a distinct cinnamon-spiced meat sauce.

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate up to a day in advance. Bake when ready.

What Can I Use Instead Of Lamb?

Ground beef or turkey can be used instead, or a plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.

Is There A Substitute For Yogurt In The Béchamel?

Sour cream or crème fraîche can be used if you don’t have yogurt.

Do I Have To Use Both Beef And Lamb?

No, using just one is fine—though the combination adds richness and depth.

Can I Make It Without Eggs?

Yes, skip the eggs if needed, but the béchamel will be slightly less firm.

What Kind Of Pasta Is Best?

Short pasta like small shells, penne, or ziti works best to hold the sauce.

What Is The Best Cheese For This Dish?

Pecorino Romano adds sharpness; Parmesan or Kefalotyri are also great options.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Sauce?

Yes, finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added for extra nutrition.

Should I Let It Rest Before Serving?

Yes, resting for 10–15 minutes helps the layers set for easier slicing.

Conclusion

Pastitsio is a Greek comfort classic with layers of meaty sauce, pasta, and rich béchamel—baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday, potluck, or hearty family meal, this dish brings elegance and tradition to the table with every bite. Let it rest, slice cleanly, and savor the flavors of Greece.

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