classic moussaka recipe

Absolutely! A classic Moussaka is a rich and hearty Greek casserole layered with sautéed eggplant, spiced meat sauce (usually lamb or beef), and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce. It’s comfort food at its Mediterranean finest.

🇬🇷 Classic Greek Moussaka Recipe

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: ~45 min | Bake Time: ~45 min

Ingredients

For the Eggplant Layers:

2–3 large eggplants, sliced 1/4 inch thick
Olive oil (for brushing/frying)
Salt

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup red wine (optional but great for flavor)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground allspice or nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
2 cups (500 ml) whole milk, warm
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese
1 egg, beaten (added at the end for richness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Eggplant:

Sprinkle sliced eggplants with salt and let them sit for 20–30 mins to remove bitterness. Pat dry.
Brush with olive oil and either roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or pan-fry until golden. Set aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce:

Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, wine, cinnamon, and spices. Simmer for 20–30 minutes until thickened. Adjust seasoning.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Slowly add warm milk while whisking constantly until smooth.
Cook over medium heat until it thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Stir in cheese, then remove from heat and whisk in the beaten egg.

4. Assemble the Moussaka:

In a greased baking dish, layer:
1. Half the eggplant slices
2. All the meat sauce
3. Remaining eggplant
4. Pour the béchamel evenly on top

5. Bake:

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
Let cool for 15–20 minutes before serving so it sets properly.

Optional Toppings:

Extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking for a golden crust.