Moussaka

Discover a classic Greek culinary delight with this Moussaka recipe. Layers of succulent eggplant, spiced lamb mince, and a rich béchamel sauce come together in perfect harmony. This traditional dish features aromatic herbs, zesty canned tomatoes, red wine, and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg for that authentic Mediterranean flavor. Top it off with a golden layer of parmesan cheese, creating an irresistible, savory casserole that’s perfect for any dinner setting. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions!

  • 20 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 60 min
  • Prep time 20 min
  • 6 Servings
  • 16 Ingredients

Moussaka

Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish that's hearty and absolutely full of flavor. Made with layers of eggplant, minced lamb, and a creamy béchamel sauce, this comfort food is perfect for gatherings or as a special dinner. Follow this recipe to create an authentic taste of Greece right in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
60g
2 eggplants
900g
1 onion
160g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1 lb lamb mince
450g
1 can canned tomatoes
400g
1/2 cup red wine
120g
1 tsp dried oregano
5g
3 cups milk (1% fat)
720g
1 bay leaf
0.60g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1 tsp cinnamon
3g
1 tsp ground nutmeg
5g
1/4 cup butter
54g
1/3 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
40g
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
40g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet, brush both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and tender. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, add the lamb mince, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, red wine, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat 3 cups of milk with 2 minced garlic cloves and the bay leaf over medium heat until it's just about to boil, then remove from heat and let it infuse for 10 minutes. Discard the bay leaf.
- In another saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Gradually add the infused milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture is smooth.
- Continue to whisk and cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Moussaka:
- Lower the oven heat to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange a layer of baked eggplant slices over the meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of eggplant.
- Pour the béchamel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Let the moussaka rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
6. Serve:
- Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Moussaka!

Tips:

- Tip 1: Ensure that the eggplants are evenly sliced and well-cooked to achieve the perfect texture in each layer of the moussaka.

- Tip 2: For a deeper flavor, let the lamb sauce simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes before layering it into the dish.

- Tip 3: When making the béchamel sauce, whisk continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, velvety texture.

- Tip 4: Allow the moussaka to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

- Tip 5: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the lamb mince with a mixture of lentils and mushrooms.

Your moussaka is now ready to be enjoyed! The rich layers of eggplant, savory lamb, and the creamy béchamel sauce come together to create a comforting and delicious dish. Serve it hot and pair with a fresh Greek salad or some crusty bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size490 grams
Energy
Calories 470kcal24%
Protein
Protein 22g15%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 27g8%
Fiber 7g19%
Sugar 15g15%
Fat
Fat 40g46%
Saturated 16g51%
Cholesterol 90mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 170ug19%
Choline 99mg17%
Vitamin B1 0.64mg53%
Vitamin B2 0.46mg36%
Vitamin B3 6mg40%
Vitamin B6 0.46mg27%
Vitamin B9 66ug16%
Vitamin B12 2.57ug107%
Vitamin C 14mg16%
Vitamin E 1.23mg8%
Vitamin K 16ug13%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 290mg22%
Copper, Cu 0.28mg32%
Iron, Fe 2.58mg23%
Magnesium, Mg 70mg17%
Phosphorus, P 360mg29%
Potassium, K 950mg28%
Selenium, Se 22ug39%
Sodium, Na 290mg19%
Zinc, Zn 3.94mg36%
Water
Water 400g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

More recipes

Garlic sweet potato rosti

An easy-to-make, savory side dish that's perfect for any meal.

29 Mar 2025

Chicken stroganoff

Perfect for a comforting dinner that's easy to make and delicious to eat.

05 Mar 2025

Nutburgers

Perfect for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

06 Mar 2025

Banana nut porridge

Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe offers a healthy, plant-based option that is both satisfying and packed with natural flavors.

15 Apr 2025

Sage and parsley garlic butter chicken breasts

Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

04 Apr 2025

Lentils with veggies, avocado, walnuts & hummus

Explore the vibrant flavors and health benefits packed into every bite of this delightful dish.

03 Feb 2025

Pea and dill fritters with avocado salad

Made with sweet peas, fresh dill, creamy feta, and served alongside a vibrant mix of spinach, lemon zest, and cherry tomatoes, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick, nutritious meal.

08 Mar 2025

Calypso chicken over rice

Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner.

04 Feb 2025

Posts