Ingredients

1 lb uncooked ziti pasta
1/4 cup melted butter
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 pinch nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt or 1/2 teaspoon white salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 large eggs , beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion , chopped
1 -2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes ( or to taste )
2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic
1 1/2 lbs extra lean ground beef
1/3 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 cup beef broth
1 1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 pinch cayenne pepper
3 cups 18 % table cream or 3 cups half-and-half cream
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1 large egg , slightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt ( or to taste ) or 1/2 teaspoon white salt ( or to taste )
ground black pepper ( to taste )
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Kittencal's Greek Pastitsio is a traditional Greek dish that is similar to lasagna. It is made with layers of ziti pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy bechamel sauce. The dish is baked until golden brown and bubbly and is often served as a main course for dinner or lunch. This recipe adds a touch of spice with crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic. It is a perfect option for feeding a large group or as a meal prep option for the week ahead. Serve it with a crisp salad or roasted veggies to balance out the richness of the dish.

Instructions

1.Cook the pasta according to the package directions; drain and place into a large bowl.
2.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3.Add in the melted butter, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, seasoning salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the pasta.
4.Mix until well combined, then add in the beaten eggs.
5.Mix until the pasta is well coated, then transfer it to a 13x9-inch baking dish.
6.Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is set.
7.While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
8.Add the chopped onions, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic to the skillet.
9.Sauté for 3-4 minutes or until the onions are translucent.
10.Add the extra-lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
11.Stir in the tomato paste, dry red wine, beef broth, seasoning salt, and black pepper.
12.Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
13.Meanwhile, melt the remaining butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
14.Whisk in the flour and cayenne pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
15.Gradually whisk in the table cream until the mixture is smooth.
16.Whisk in the nutmeg, beaten egg, seasoning salt, and black pepper.
17.Cook the mixture until it has thickened, stirring frequently.
18.Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
19.Pour the sauce over the pasta and spread it evenly.
20.Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
21.Let the dish cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving hot.

PROS

Kittencal’s Greek Pastitsio is a hearty and delicious main dish that is full of flavor.

This recipe is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.

The combination of pasta, beef, and creamy bechamel sauce make for a satisfying and comforting meal.

CONS

This recipe contains a lot of butter, cream, and cheese, which can make it high in fat and calories.

It may not be the healthiest choice for those watching their diet or looking to eat low-calorie meals.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Kittencal’s Greek Pastitsio may not be the healthiest meal option, it does contain some nutritional benefits.
The beef provides a good source of protein, iron, and B-vitamins to support overall health and well-being.
The nutmeg in the recipe has anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve digestion and reduce pain and swelling.

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