Pastitio Recipe
Baked ziti layered with meat sauce and topped with creamy bechamel and parmesan.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Pasta
Meat Sauce
Béchamel Sauce
Topping
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Meat Sauce Preparation
- 2
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- 3
Add Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7-10 minutes.
- 4
Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Béchamel Sauce Preparation
- 5
- 6
Add Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with nutmeg and salt.
- 7
Add Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Assembly and Baking
- 8
Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti and meat sauce. Mix well.
- 9
Layer the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta and meat mixture, then pour half of the béchamel sauce over it. Repeat with the remaining pasta and béchamel.
- 10
Add Topping
Sprinkle the additional grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer of béchamel.
- 11
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.