Mediterranean Moussaka

Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that features layers of eggplant, spiced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce. This Mediterranean Moussaka recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special dinner or gathering.

Mediterranean Moussaka

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced
  • 1 lb ground lamb or beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, or until tender. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb or beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, nutmeg, and parsley. Simmer for 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
  5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  6. Spread half of the eggplant slices in the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spoon the meat mixture over the eggplant, then top with the remaining eggplant slices. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Let the moussaka rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
380 per serving
Protein
20g
Carbohydrates
25g
Fat
22g

Supplies

9x13 inch baking dish Baking sheet Skillet Saucepan

Tools

Knife Cutting board Whisk Spatula

Serving suggestions

Serve the Mediterranean Moussaka with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms.

Cost

$20