Can’t go wrong with this dish; it’s rich and a universal favorite.

Pastitsio is a delightful Greek casserole that layers pasta, a savory meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping. This heartwarming dish, with its roots in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, is known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. If you appreciate the familiar, comforting embrace of lasagna but crave something a bit more exotic, pastitsio is a must-try. The blend of ground meat with aromatic spices, coupled with a velvety béchamel sauce, creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Pastitsio pairs wonderfully with a simple Greek salad, loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese. Freshly baked garlic bread is a great accompaniment too, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. A side of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots adds a nice nutritional balance to the meal. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or a Greek Agiorgitiko, complements the rich, hearty flavors beautifully.

Servings: 6-8

1 pound pasta (traditionally bucatini or penne)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef or lamb
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1/2 cup red wine
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cups milk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
Pinch of ground nutmeg