Pastitsio is a comforting and hearty Greek pasta dish, typically made with layers of pasta, creamy béchamel sauce, and flavorful fillings. This version features a savory spinach and feta filling, complemented by a rich béchamel sauce, making it a delightful vegetarian main course that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of mozzarella, feta, and cream cheese creates a deliciously creamy texture, while the baked pasta provides a satisfying crunch.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (500g) bucatini or penne pasta
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz (115g) feta cheese
For the Filling:
- 1 bunch (5-6) scallions, thinly sliced
- 3-4 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 lbs spinach leaves
- Salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese
- 11 oz (300g) feta cheese
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 cups kefalotiri or grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Make the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the scallions and a pinch of salt, cooking until soft and golden, about 8 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Gradually add the spinach in batches, cooking over high heat until wilted and the liquid has evaporated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in the dill and cream cheese until incorporated. Add the crumbled feta cheese and mix well.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for a few minutes until toasted.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking to keep the sauce smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce comes to a boil and thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add some of the hot béchamel sauce to the eggs to temper them, then whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the Pastitsio:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add half of the pasta. Top with a ladle of béchamel sauce, crumbled feta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Toss to combine.
- Spread the spinach and feta filling evenly over the pasta.
- Add a ladle of béchamel sauce to the remaining pasta and toss with crumbled feta. Layer this over the spinach filling in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese, then pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top.
- Bake the Pastitsio:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the pastitsio to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Greek salad for a fresh and tangy contrast.
- Pair with warm pita bread to soak up the delicious béchamel sauce.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko.
- Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a wholesome meal.
- Top with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for added freshness and color.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer sauce, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of regular milk.
- Feel free to substitute the spinach with other greens such as kale or Swiss chard.
- To make the dish more substantial, add a layer of cooked ground meat or lentils between the pasta and spinach filling.
- Let the pastitsio rest after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
- You can prepare the filling and béchamel sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before assembling the dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Spinach: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate.
- Feta Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Provides protein and calcium for bone health.
- Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Eggs: High in protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- High in protein
- Rich in calcium and vitamins
- Contains dairy and gluten
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pastitsio in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Spinach and Feta Pastitsio is a comforting, creamy, and hearty meal that combines pasta with two types of cheese and a savory spinach filling. The béchamel sauce adds richness and depth to every bite. It’s a great dish for feeding a crowd, and it also tastes even better the next day, making leftovers a treat. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients based on your preferences.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Feta Pastitsio is a must-try for anyone who loves baked pasta dishes. The rich, creamy béchamel sauce perfectly complements the flavorful spinach filling, and the combination of mozzarella and feta cheese creates a deliciously indulgent dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while still enjoying a hearty, comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bucatini or penne with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni or ziti. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pastitsio in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. - Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use non-dairy milk for the béchamel sauce. - Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, you can add cooked ground meat, such as beef or lamb, to the filling for a non-vegetarian version. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions. - Can I freeze pastitsio?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Assemble it and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers after baking. - How long will pastitsio last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. - Can I use other greens instead of spinach?
Yes, you can substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or any other leafy greens you prefer. - How can I make the béchamel sauce thicker?
If the béchamel sauce is too thin, cook it a bit longer, or add a little more flour to thicken it. - Can I make pastitsio without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg for a vegan version.