Beef and pumpkin moussaka

Savor the rich and comforting flavors of Beef and Pumpkin Moussaka. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef with savory spices, pumpkin, mushrooms, and a velvety Parmesan cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. Ideal for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

  • 28 Mar 2025
  • Cook time 60 min
  • Prep time 15 min
  • 4 Servings
  • 16 Ingredients

Beef and pumpkin moussaka

Beef and Pumpkin Moussaka is a delightful twist on the traditional Greek dish. This version incorporates the rich flavors of ground beef combined with the tender sweetness of pumpkin, all seasoned with aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe brings a unique and comforting flavor profile to the table.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
27g
1 onion
160g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1 tsp cinnamon
3g
1 tsp ground cumin
3g
1 tsp chili powder
5g
1 tsp dried oregano
5g
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
510g
1/2 cup red wine
120g
1 can canned tomatoes
400g
4 cups pumpkin
480g
1 cup mushrooms
230g
1/3 cup butter
70g
1/3 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
40g
1/3 cup milk (1% fat)
72g
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
80g

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Pumpkin:
- Peel and cut the pumpkin into small cubes. Set aside.
3. Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, ground cinnamon, cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, about 8-10 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until the wine has reduced slightly.
- Add the canned tomatoes, cubed pumpkin, and sliced mushrooms. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Continue to whisk for about 2 minutes without browning it.
- Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Assemble the Moussaka:
- In a greased baking dish, spread half of the beef and pumpkin mixture on the bottom.
- Pour half of the béchamel sauce over the mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Add the remaining beef and pumpkin mixture on top.
- Finish with a layer of the remaining béchamel sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the moussaka sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips:

- Ensure that the pumpkin is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

- Use a good quality red wine to enhance the flavor of the beef mixture.

- For a smoother béchamel sauce, slowly incorporate the milk while constantly stirring to prevent lumps.

- Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together before serving.

- Feel free to add other vegetables such as eggplants or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

This Beef and Pumpkin Moussaka is a hearty and flavorful dish that's sure to impress. The combination of spices, tender beef, sweet pumpkin, and creamy béchamel sauce creates a meal that's both comforting and satisfying. Serve it warm, and enjoy the delightful blend of tastes and textures that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size550 grams
Energy
Calories 710kcal35%
Protein
Protein 33g23%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 33g9%
Fiber 6g15%
Sugar 11g11%
Fat
Fat 55g64%
Saturated 22g74%
Cholesterol 150mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 750ug83%
Choline 110mg21%
Vitamin B1 0.81mg67%
Vitamin B2 0.77mg59%
Vitamin B3 10mg60%
Vitamin B6 0.80mg47%
Vitamin B9 70ug18%
Vitamin B12 3.14ug131%
Vitamin C 27mg31%
Vitamin E 2.95mg20%
Vitamin K 18ug15%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 340mg26%
Copper, Cu 0.59mg65%
Iron, Fe 6mg53%
Magnesium, Mg 80mg19%
Phosphorus, P 520mg42%
Potassium, K 1420mg42%
Selenium, Se 40ug76%
Sodium, Na 600mg40%
Zinc, Zn 7mg68%
Water
Water 420g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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