Pastitsio — Ad-Free Recipe, Ingredients First

Pastitsio is three layers that each have to stand on their own: firm tubes, a spiced meat sauce reduced thick, and a bechamel stiff enough to slice. Bind the bottom pasta with egg and cheese so it holds a clean square. Reach for long thick tubes rather than elbows so the layers stay distinct.

The Ingredients — and where to get them

Cook for 8 servings

Ground beef

The meat sauce base; grass-fed beef has the flavor to carry the cinnamon and tomato.

2 lb

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Bucatini or ziti

The structural pasta layers; long thick tubes keep the bottom firm.

1 lb

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Canned crushed tomatoes

Builds the meat sauce; reduce it down until it holds a line.

1 can (28 oz)

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Whole milk

The base of the bechamel; whole milk sets firm for clean slices.

4 cups

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Parmesan

Grated into the bechamel, the pasta, and the top for structure and crust.

1.5 cups grated

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Ground cinnamon and nutmeg

Cinnamon in the meat, nutmeg in the bechamel; the pair defines pastitsio.

1 tsp each

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Yellow onion

Sweated into the meat sauce base.

1 large

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Using ground beef? It behaves the way it does for a reason — what this cut is for and how to cook it →

The Rundown

Greedometer ●●●●● A fair little treat

A reasonable little indulgence.

EffortSome doing

Cook it with

Air fryerOne-potSheet pan

The Method

Cook the pastaBoil the tubes 2 minutes short of done, drain, and toss with a little butter, parmesan, and 1 beaten egg.
Make the meat sauceBrown beef with onion and cinnamon, add tomatoes, and simmer 30 minutes until thick.
Make the bechamelCook 6 tbsp butter with flour, whisk in warm milk to a thick sauce, then off heat stir in nutmeg, parmesan, and 3 eggs.
LayerSpread half the pasta, all the meat sauce, the rest of the pasta, then the bechamel on top.
BakeBake at 350F for 50 to 60 minutes until the top is golden and set; rest 30 minutes so it slices into squares.

The Toolkit

Deep baking dish · Large pot · Whisk · Box grater · Wooden spoon

Straight Answers

Can you make Pastitsio in an air fryer? — Yes

Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.

Can you freeze Pastitsio? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Pastitsio ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Is Pastitsio gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is Pastitsio vegan? — No

No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.

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© 2026 5best2buy.com · Recipe No.219

Pastitsio, and where to source it