Pastitsio

Pastitsio

Greek · Recipe

Pastitsio is a classic Greek main course built around comforting flavour, cultural heritage and the kind of cooking that makes a meal feel memorable.

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About this dish

Greek cuisine

Ingredients

  • 400g pasta (bucatini or penne)
  • 500g minced beef
  • Onion and garlic
  • Tomato paste
  • Cinnamon and nutmeg
  • Béchamel sauce
  • Grated cheese

Description

Pastitsio is more than a main: it is a route into Greek island and mainland cooking, shaped by olive oil, herbs, grains, yoghurt and the Aegean table. The dish is built around olive oil, lemon, herbs, feta, vegetables, lamb, fish and honey, giving it a flavour that feels both practical and deeply connected to its origin. It works especially well for sunny lunches, mezze-style meals and generous family cooking, and it gives readers a clear way to understand how ingredients, technique and food history meet on the plate. Often compared to lasagna, Pastitsio features layers of pasta, spiced meat, and creamy sauce.

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta and meat sauce separately.
  2. Layer pasta, meat, and béchamel in a dish.
  3. Bake at 180°C for 40 minutes.