Ingredients

5 ounces elbow macaroni
2 1/2 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg , freshly grated
6 tablespoons kefalotyri or 6 tablespoons parmesan cheese , grated
1 egg , lightly beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion , minced
3 garlic cloves , minced
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup red wine
1 cup beef stock
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon fresh oregano , chopped
5 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg , freshly grated
3 cups milk
2 eggs , slightly beaten
Pastitsio is a traditional Greek dish that is loved by many. It is a type of pasta bake that is typically made with elbow macaroni, a meat sauce flavored with red wine and oregano, and a creamy topping made from bechamel sauce and cheese. This recipe for Vasilly's pastitsio is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. The dish is named after Vasilly, a family friend who is famous for his delicious pastitsio. It is a bit time-consuming to make, but the end result is well worth it.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions.
3.While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat and sauté minced onion and garlic until fragrant.
4.Add in ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in red wine, beef stock, tomato paste, and fresh oregano.
5.In a separate pan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and nutmeg until combined.
6.Gradually add in milk, stirring constantly. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
7.Beat 2 eggs and kefalotyri or parmesan cheese. Combine with cooked elbow macaroni and nutmeg.
8.In a greased baking pan, add a layer of elbow macaroni and cheese, then a layer of meat sauce, and repeat until all ingredients are used up.
9.Pour the milk mixture over the top of the pan and bake for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown.

PROS

Vasilly’s pastitsio is a hearty and delicious comfort food that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

It can be easily customized to your liking by adding or substituting different types of cheese or meat.

Plus, it can be made ahead and reheated for easy meal prep.

CONS

This dish is fairly high in calories and fat due to the use of ground beef and cheese.

It may not be the best option for those following a low-fat or low-calorie diet.
It is also a bit time-consuming to make.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While not the healthiest dish, Vasilly’s pastitsio does provide a good source of protein and calcium.
The dish can be made healthier by using lean ground beef and low-fat cheese alternatives.

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