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Greek Moussaka

Greek Moussaka: Comforting Layers of Flavor You’ll Love

Greek Moussaka is a comforting layered casserole featuring eggplant, potatoes, and a rich meat sauce beneath creamy béchamel, making it a must-try dish for any dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Vegetables
  • 2 medium Eggplants Choose firm and glossy ones.
  • 3 medium Potatoes Thinly sliced.
  • 2 medium Zucchini Cut into even slices.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Meat (Beef or Lamb) Choose based on preference.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Finely chopped.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh and minced.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Simmer for robust flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Red Wine Adds acidity.
For the Spices & Herbs
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Essential for Greek flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Nutmeg Use in both meat sauce and béchamel.
  • 1 tablespoon Oregano Fresh or dried.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Fresh or dried.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley Fresh, chopped.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Butter For the roux.
  • 1/2 cup Flour To thicken the sauce.
  • 2 cups Milk Full-fat for best texture.
  • 2 large Egg Yolks Enriches the sauce.
  • 1 cup Kefalograviera Cheese Substitutes can be used.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Enhances flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the eggplants, zucchini, and potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Lightly sprinkle salt over the eggplant slices and let them rest for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the salted eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Sauté zucchini until soft.
Meat Sauce
  1. Sauté finely chopped red onion in olive oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in ground meat, cooking until browned.
  2. Pour in red wine and simmer until almost evaporated. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cinnamon, nutmeg, and herbs. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes.
Béchamel and Assembly
  1. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, nutmeg, and cheese.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer sliced potatoes, fried eggplant, zucchini, and meat sauce in a greased baking dish. Pour béchamel sauce evenly over the top.
Baking and Serving
  1. Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown. Let the moussaka rest for 30 minutes after baking to set the layers.
  2. Cut into squares or wedges for serving and enjoy warm, possibly with a Greek salad and crusty bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Consider assembling the moussaka a day ahead for deeper flavor. Properly salting the eggplant is key for enhancing flavor.

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