Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this incredibly easy-to-make Pastitsio Baked Pasta recipe! This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Forget complicated recipes; this version simplifies the traditional Pastitsio, delivering all the deliciousness without the fuss. Get ready to experience a taste of Greece in your own kitchen with this amazing Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta!
This Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, combining tender pasta with a rich, creamy béchamel sauce and a savory meat sauce. The simple recipe steps guide you through creating this heartwarming dish, a perfect example of how delicious comfort food can also be incredibly easy to prepare. Enjoy!
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per serving (approximate): Calories: 450, Fat: 20g, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 50g.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried bucatini pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Tomato paste | 6 ounces |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the bucatini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. This Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta needs perfectly cooked pasta for the best texture.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This meat sauce is the heart of our Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta.
- While the meat sauce simmers, prepare the béchamel sauce. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- In a large baking dish (9×13 inch), spread half of the meat sauce. Top with half of the cooked pasta, then spread half of the béchamel sauce. Repeat layers with the remaining meat sauce, pasta, and béchamel sauce. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta is best served warm.
This Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, while a handful of fresh parsley adds a vibrant green color and fresh flavor. You can also substitute ground lamb or a mixture of ground beef and lamb for the ground beef.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta warm, alongside a simple green salad. A crusty bread is also a great addition to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete Mediterranean meal, consider serving it with a side of tzatziki or Greek salad.
Notes/Tips: For an even richer flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil before adding the ground beef. If you want a creamier béchamel sauce, you can use heavy cream instead of milk. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Remember, this Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta is all about enjoying the simple pleasures of delicious, home-cooked food. Happy cooking!
This Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic recipe, made easy and accessible for everyone to enjoy. Let this Rich Mediterranean Pastitsio Baked Pasta bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!
