Moussaka Recipe

There’s something profoundly satisfying about gathering around the table to share a hearty, homemade meal. This Moussaka recipe, with its beautiful layers and comforting flavors, is a true testament to the art of family-style cooking. Originating from the Mediterranean, Moussaka is often seen as a labor of love, made with simple, yet deeply flavorful ingredients that come together to create a dish that is nothing short of magical. Imagine sitting down to a warm, inviting plate of Moussaka, with the aroma of spiced ground beef, roasted eggplant, and a luscious béchamel sauce wafting through the air. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience that brings people together. At Zynahz, we believe in the power of food to create memories, and this Moussaka recipe is worth every moment spent in the kitchen. Let’s dive in and create something unforgettable together!

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 6

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the eggplant and potato slices on baking sheets, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until tender and golden. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned. Stir in the cinnamon, allspice, pepper, and salt.
5. Mix in the tomato paste and beef broth, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped parsley and set aside.
6. To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
7. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Stir in the grated Parmesan and nutmeg. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before stirring in the beaten egg.
8. In a large baking dish, layer half of the potato slices, followed by half of the eggplant slices. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the top. Layer the remaining potatoes and eggplants.
9. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top layer, spreading it evenly. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
10. Allow the Moussaka to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Helpful Tips

• To save time, you can prepare the meat sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a medley of sauteed mushrooms.
• Ensure your béchamel sauce is not too hot when adding the egg to prevent it from scrambling.

Storage Instructions

Moussaka can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in a preheated oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual servings for up to a month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairings

Moussaka pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For drinks, it’s hard to go wrong with a glass of bold red wine or a cool, refreshing lemonade.

At Zynahz, we strive to bring joy and creativity into every kitchen through delightful recipes that become cherished family traditions. We encourage you to try this Moussaka recipe and share your culinary adventures with us. Gather your loved ones, savor the flavors, and create beautiful memories around the table. Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family, explore more of our dishes, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for more inspiring recipes. Let’s make every meal a celebration of togetherness!