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Pastitsio

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Delicious pastitsio recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 medium onion, diced finely
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 ounces)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups béchamel sauce
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Instructions

  1. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until just al dente.
  2. Drain and set aside in a large bowl.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the filling.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  5. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  7. Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic.
  8. Use a wooden spoon to break up any clumps as it cooks through completely—this should take about 8-10 minutes.
  9. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  10. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper into the skillet.
  11. Let this flavorful mix simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes.
  12. In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), start layering by spreading half of your cooked ziti evenly across the bottom.
  13. Pour half of the meat mixture over this layer followed by half of your béchamel sauce.
  14. Repeat with another layer of ziti, meat mixture, finishing off with remaining béchamel sauce on top.
  15. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over your layered Pastitsio before placing it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
  16. Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
  17. Serve hot straight from the oven!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Serve with a fresh salad alongside.

Use high-quality cheese for flavor.

Nutrition