Enlightened Pastitsio (Greek Pasta Comfort Casserole)

May 09, 2023May 9, 20230 1
Enlightened Pastitsio (Greek Pasta Comfort Casserole) Recipe
in Main

Prep

20 min

Cook

50 min

Ready In

70 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 lb multi-grain penne ( I used Barilla plus )
2 lbs lean ground beef ( see note below for vegetarian options )
2 medium onions , chopped
1/2 cup red wine
1 1/3 cups good-quality marinara sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups low-fat milk ( I used 1 % )
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup parmesan cheese

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
10-12
Calories
415
Sugar
7g
Fat
15g
Enlightened Pastitsio is a twist on the traditional Greek dish that incorporates layers of pasta, beef, and white sauce. The use of multi-grain penne and low-fat milk reduces the overall calorie and fat content of the dish while still providing the same comforting and satisfying flavors as the original recipe. The cinnamon and oregano give the dish an aromatic and savory flavor profile that complements the richness of the beef and cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a potluck gathering with friends and family.

Instructions

1.Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2.Preheat the oven to 375°F, then grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3.In a large skillet, cook the beef and onions over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
4.Add the red wine, marinara sauce, cinnamon, oregano, and salt to the skillet with the beef, then bring to a simmer.
5.Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine all the ingredients.
6.While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the white sauce: melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour until smooth.
7.Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to combine into a smooth mixture.
8.Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the milk mixture, then cook for about 10 minutes, whisking continuously until it thickens.
9.Stir the cooked pasta into the beef mixture and remove from heat.
10.Pour half of the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, then pour all of the white sauce on top.
11.Pour the remaining pasta and beef mixture on top of the white sauce, then top with parmesan cheese.
12.Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

PROS

Enlightened Pastitsio is a delicious and comforting dish that combines pasta, beef, and white sauce for a hearty meal.

The use of multi-grain penne and low-fat milk helps to reduce the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.

CONS

This dish still contains a significant amount of fat and calories due to the beef and cheese.

It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Enlightened Pastitsio provides a good amount of protein, iron, and calcium.
The beef is a great source of protein and iron, while the parmesan cheese provides a good amount of calcium.
The dish also contains cinnamon, which has been linked to reducing inflammation and lower blood sugar levels.

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