Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Traditional Moussaka Recipe, a Mediterranean classic that beautifully combines layers of tender eggplant, savory ground beef, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Whether served with a fresh salad or crusty bread, this hearty dish is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.6 lb ground beef (lean)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup tomato purée
- 1 cup beef stock
- 2 cups vegetable or olive oil (for frying)
- 1.6 lb russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 lb eggplant, sliced
- 4 oz unsalted butter
- 4 oz all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk (room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 small nutmeg, grated
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1 cup pecorino romano cheese, freshly shredded
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced (plus more to garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 or 2 bay leaves
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice potatoes and eggplant. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, fry until golden brown; set aside.
- Make the Meat Sauce: Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil. Add ground beef until browned. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, tomato purée, and beef stock. Season with herbs and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Béchamel Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour to create a roux; gradually add milk while whisking until thickened. Mix in seasoning and cheese.
- Assemble: Layer half the potatoes in a baking dish followed by meat sauce and vegetables; repeat layers ending with béchamel on top.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg