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Outrageously Delicious Greek Moussaka: A Layered Delight of Flavor and Comfort

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Outrageously Delicious Greek Moussaka is a rich, comforting casserole that combines layers of fried eggplant, savory ground meat, and creamy béchamel sauce. This flavor-packed dish is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, offering a taste of Greece with every bite. Make it ahead of time, or enjoy fresh from the oven—either way, it’s sure to impress!

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including resting time)
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish, Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek

Ingredients

For the Vegetable Layers:

2 medium eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

2 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

2 large potatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

Olive oil (for frying)

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)

1 red onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup red wine

2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned)

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

2 bay leaves

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 tablespoons flour

2 cups milk

2 egg yolks

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1 cup shredded cheese (Kefalograviera or Parmesan)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Fry the Vegetables: Slice the eggplant, zucchini, and potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Salt the eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes, then pat dry. Fry the vegetables in batches until golden and tender. Drain on paper towels.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Cook the red onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Make the Meat Sauce: Add ground beef or lamb and cook until browned. Pour in red wine and let it reduce, then add crushed tomatoes, cinnamon, nutmeg, oregano, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, then add parsley and discard bay leaves.
  4. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: Melt butter and stir in flour. Gradually add milk, whisking until thick. Stir in egg yolks, nutmeg, and cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Assemble the Moussaka: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased baking dish, layer potatoes, eggplant, zucchini, and meat sauce. Pour béchamel sauce on top and smooth out.
  6. Bake and Rest: Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden. Let rest for 30 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms.
  • Use different cheeses like Gouda, Pecorino Romano, or Parmesan.
  • You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra texture and flavor.

Nutrition