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Delicious Greek Moussaka

Delicious Greek Moussaka: Comforting Layers of Flavor

Delicious Greek Moussaka is a comforting dish that combines tender eggplant, hearty ground meat, and creamy béchamel, perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Vegetable Base
  • 2 medium Eggplants Salting helps remove moisture and bitterness.
  • 3 medium Potatoes Provides heartiness.
  • 2 medium Zucchini Adds texture and freshness.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Meat (Beef or Lamb) Authentic Greek flavor is achieved with lamb.
  • 1 medium Onion Sweet red onions add balance.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Canned options are convenient.
  • 0.5 cup Red Wine Adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg) Use sparingly.
  • 1 tablespoon Herbs (Oregano, Thyme, Parsley) Classic Mediterranean notes.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Base fat.
  • 0.25 cup Flour Used to thicken.
  • 2 cups Milk Adds richness.
  • 2 large Egg Yolks Enrich the sauce.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Adds warmth.
  • 0.5 cup Cheese (Kefalograviera or Parmesan) Creates a golden crust.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Medium saucepan
  • large pot
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by slicing the eggplants, zucchini, and potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and fry the eggplant, zucchini, and potato slices in batches until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels.
  3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion until translucent, add minced garlic and ground meat, and cook until browned. Add red wine and simmer, then stir in crushed tomatoes, spices, and herbs, simmering for 10–15 minutes.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, then slowly add milk, stirring continuously until thickened. Mix in egg yolks, a pinch of nutmeg, and cheese until smooth.
  5. Layer half of the potatoes, followed by fried eggplant, zucchini, and meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with béchamel sauce.
  6. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and bake for 40–45 minutes. Let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Salting the eggplants is essential; it draws out bitterness. Frying in batches ensures a good color. Allow the meat sauce to simmer for better flavor.

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