Rich and hearty Greek Moussaka recipe for authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Greek
Diet:Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
2–3 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch rounds
Salt, for sweating the eggplant
Olive oil, for brushing or frying
1 lb ground beef (or ground lamb)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2½ cups whole milk
½ teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and white pepper, to taste
1 egg yolk
½ cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese (optional)
Instructions
Slice eggplants and sprinkle with salt. Let sit 30 minutes to draw out moisture, then rinse and pat dry. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and spices. Simmer 20 minutes until thickened.
In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in warm milk until thickened. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cool slightly, then stir in egg yolk and cheese.
Layer half the eggplant in a greased 9×13 dish, spread half the meat sauce, add remaining eggplant, then the rest of the meat sauce. Top evenly with béchamel.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Rest 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Let the moussaka rest before slicing for easier serving.