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Classic Greek Eggplant Moussaka

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This Classic Greek Eggplant Moussaka is a delicious, hearty Mediterranean casserole made with layers of roasted eggplant, savory meat sauce, and a rich béchamel topping. Perfect for family meals or special occasions, this dish brings authentic Greek flavors with every bite. Enjoy the comforting combination of tender eggplant, fragrant spices, and a creamy béchamel in this perfect moussaka recipe.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek

Ingredients

Eggplant Layer:

3 large eggplants, sliced ½” thick, lightly salted and rested to draw out moisture

Olive oil for roasting

Meat Sauce:

500g ground lamb or beef

1 large onion, finely diced

23 garlic cloves, minced

½ cup red wine (optional)

400g crushed tomatoes + 2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp oregano

A pinch of nutmeg

Salt and pepper to taste

Béchamel Topping:

60g butter

5 tbsp flour (to make a roux)

2½ cups warm milk

Nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste

1 egg

½ cup grated Parmesan or Kefalotyri cheese

⅓ cup breadcrumbs for a golden crust

Equipment Needed:

Large skillet or frying pan

9×13-inch baking dish

Sheet pan for roasting eggplant

Medium saucepan for béchamel

Whisk

Spatula

Instructions

Prepare the Eggplant: Slice the eggplants into ½” thick slices and sprinkle with salt. Let them rest for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat them dry and brush with olive oil before roasting at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and caramelized.

Make the Meat Sauce: Brown the ground meat in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Pour in red wine (if using) and let it reduce slightly. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, oregano, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cook until thickened. Remove from heat, then whisk in egg, cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Moussaka: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the roasted eggplant, followed by half of the meat sauce. Add another layer of eggplant, then top with the remaining meat sauce. Pour the béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.

Bake and Serve: Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh oregano if desired.

Notes

Make-Ahead: Moussaka can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day.

Gluten-Free: Swap flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions if needed.

Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

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