As a mom, I know how important it is to have a go-to meal that is hearty, delicious, and loved by the whole family. Pastitsio, also known as Greek lasagna, is my absolute favorite when I need a meal that will bring comfort to the dinner table. With layers of tender pasta, a rich and flavorful meat sauce, and a creamy bechamel topping, this dish is a true hug in a pan. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when I need something filling and satisfying for my kids and husband.
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What is Pastitsio?
Pastitsio is a traditional Greek baked pasta dish that reminds me of a warm embrace from my own mother. It’s similar to Italian lasagna but uses thick, tubular pasta instead of flat noodles. What makes it unique is the aromatic meat sauce with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, topped with a rich, creamy bechamel sauce that my kids absolutely adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Moms: This recipe makes enough for leftovers, meaning I can cook once and feed my family for days!
- Great for Meal Prep: It freezes well, so I can always have a comforting homemade meal ready when needed.
- A Family Favorite: Even the picky eaters in my household can’t resist the layers of flavor in this dish.
Ingredients Needed
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta Base:
- 12 oz (340g) pastitsio pasta or penne
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Bechamel Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large saucepan
- Large baking dish
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Large pot for boiling pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion until soft.
- Add the garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, red wine, and spices.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened.
2. Prepare the Pasta Base
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and toss with butter, Parmesan, and beaten egg.
- Spread the pasta in a greased baking dish.
3. Make the Bechamel Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Remove from heat, stir in egg yolk, Parmesan, and seasoning.
4. Assemble the Pastitsio
- Spread the meat sauce over the pasta layer.
- Pour the bechamel sauce evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Dish
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until golden brown.
Tips for the Best Pastitsio

- Use pastitsio pasta for authenticity, but penne works well too.
- Let the dish rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- A pinch of cinnamon in the bechamel enhances the flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.
- Lighter Bechamel: Use part skim milk and skip the egg yolk.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a Greek salad and crusty bread.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for a relaxing evening.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Pastitsio ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, refrigerate it overnight, and bake the next day.
2. What’s the best pasta to use?
Pastitsio pasta is traditional, but penne or ziti works well.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Turkey makes a leaner alternative.
4. How do I prevent my bechamel from getting lumpy?
Whisk constantly while adding milk and cook over low heat.
5. Can I freeze Pastitsio after baking?
Yes, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Pastitsio is a mother’s best friend in the kitchen. It’s warm, comforting, and makes everyone feel at home. If you try this recipe, share it with your friends, and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more family-friendly meals!

Pastitsio (Greek Lasagna) – A Mother’s Comforting Classic
Equipment
- Large saucepan:
- Large baking dish
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta Base:
- 12 oz (340g) pastitsio pasta or penne
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Bechamel Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 egg yolk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion until soft.
- Add the garlic and ground meat, cooking until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, red wine, and spices.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened.
2. Prepare the Pasta Base
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain and toss with butter, Parmesan, and beaten egg.
- Spread the pasta in a greased baking dish.
3. Make the Bechamel Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Remove from heat, stir in egg yolk, Parmesan, and seasoning.
4. Assemble the Pastitsio
- Spread the meat sauce over the pasta layer.
- Pour the bechamel sauce evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Dish
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until golden brown.
Tips for the Best Pastitsio
- Use pastitsio pasta for authenticity, but penne works well too.
- Let the dish rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- A pinch of cinnamon in the bechamel enhances the flavor.