Description
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this outrageously delicious traditional Greek Moussaka recipe. Layered with tender eggplants, savory ground meat, and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce, this classic casserole is perfect for family dinners and special occasions. Crafted with authentic ingredients and expert techniques, this dish promises to bring the taste of Greek tavernas right to your home kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 lbs ground beef or lamb
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped, or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying and brushing
- 2 cups béchamel sauce (see recipe below)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese for topping
Instructions
- Slice the eggplants into 1/2-inch rounds and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and bake or fry until golden brown, then set aside.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent. Add ground beef or lamb, cook until browned. Stir in chopped tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 20 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the eggplant slices. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the eggplants. Top with remaining eggplant slices. Pour the prepared béchamel sauce over the top layer, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle grated cheese for a crispy, flavorful topping.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes. The top should be golden brown and bubbly. Allow the dish to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, particularly ripe tomatoes and fresh eggplants.
- Whisk constantly while preparing the béchamel sauce to keep it smooth and prevent lumps.
- Incorporate a splash of fullstar ultimate veggie prep master for finely chopped vegetables to enhance flavors.
- Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers, and reheat gently to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg