Moussaka, a traditional Greek dish layered with flavors and textures, is a hearty casserole featuring layers of eggplant, ground meat (typically lamb or beef), and a rich tomato sauce, topped with creamy béchamel sauce. Baked to perfection, moussaka is a comforting and satisfying dish that showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe will guide you through creating this iconic dish at home, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Moussaka Layers:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into rounds
• Salt, for sprinkling
• Olive oil, for brushing
• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplants

• Place the sliced eggplants on a baking sheet. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let sit for 20-30 minutes to release excess moisture.
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the eggplant slices dry with paper towels, brush lightly with olive oil, and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly browned. Set aside.

2. Cook the Meat Sauce

• In a large skillet or frying pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground lamb or beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until smooth and bubbly.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth and thickened. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
• Remove from heat and season with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if using. Set aside.

4. Assemble and Bake the Moussaka

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
• Arrange half of the roasted eggplant slices in a single layer on the bottom of the baking dish. Spread half of the meat sauce evenly over the eggplant.
• Repeat with another layer of eggplant slices and the remaining meat sauce.
• Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the top, spreading it out with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Eggplant Preparation: Salting and roasting the eggplants beforehand helps to remove bitterness and excess moisture.
• Meat Sauce: Ensure the meat sauce is well-seasoned and cooked down to a thick consistency for optimal flavor.
• Béchamel Sauce: Whisk the milk into the flour mixture gradually to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth sauce.

Variations

• Vegetarian Moussaka: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a meat-free version.
• Eggplant-Free Moussaka: Use thinly sliced potatoes or zucchini instead of eggplant for a different twist.

Conclusion

Moussaka is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Greece to your table. Whether served as a main course or part of a festive spread, its layers of tender eggplant, savory meat sauce, and creamy béchamel sauce are sure to delight. Try this classic moussaka recipe and enjoy a taste of Mediterranean cuisine in your own home!

Explore more Mediterranean-inspired recipes by clicking HERE or HERE. Dive into the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with these delicious dishes!