Traditional Greek Moussaka with Lamb and Béchamel
Dive into the rich flavors of Greece with this authentic Moussaka recipe, passed down through generations. This hearty casserole features layers of succulent ground lamb, aromatic spices, and creamy béchamel sauce, all enveloped in tender roasted potatoes and grilled eggplant. Although my mother preferred a potato-free version, feel free to add them based on your taste. This satisfying dish serves 12-14 and is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, providing a taste of Mediterranean comfort that's sure to impress your guests.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
24
Ingredients
Ingredients
Russet potatoes
1 lb (peeled, sliced 1/4 inch thick)
Olive oil
4 tablespoons (for tossing potatoes)
Coarse salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Black pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Unsalted butter
2/3 cup (for making béchamel)
All-purpose flour
1 cup (for béchamel sauce)
Hot milk
6 cups (heated)
Nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (freshly grated, for béchamel)
Whole eggs
6 (beaten)
Olive oil
3 tablespoons (for sautéing lamb)
Ground lamb
1.5 lbs (for the meat layer)
Chopped onions
2 medium (for sautéing)
Chopped garlic
3 cloves (for sautéing)
Dry red wine
1/2 cup (for deglazing)
Cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Greek oregano
2 teaspoons (dried, for seasoning)
Ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Chopped Italian-style tomatoes
56 ounces (drained)
Tomato paste
1 tablespoon (for richness)
Ground nutmeg
1 pinch (for seasoning)
Baby eggplants
2.25 lbs (cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices)
Olive oil
as needed (for brushing eggplant)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Black pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Traditional Greek Moussaka with Lamb and Béchamel.
Is this Moussaka recipe authentic?
Yes, it is described as an authentic recipe passed down through generations.
What are the main layers of this Moussaka?
The dish features layers of succulent ground lamb, aromatic spices, and creamy béchamel sauce over roasted potatoes and grilled eggplant.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves 12 to 14 people.
Can this recipe be made without potatoes?
Yes, you can make a potato-free version based on your personal preference.
What kind of potatoes are recommended?
Russet potatoes are recommended for this recipe.
How should the potatoes be prepared?
They should be peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick.
What type of eggplant is used?
The recipe calls for 2.25 lbs of baby eggplants.
How should the eggplant be sliced?
The baby eggplants should be cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices.
What type of meat is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses 1.5 lbs of ground lamb.
What kind of sauce is on top of the Moussaka?
A creamy béchamel sauce is used as the top layer.
How many eggs are in the béchamel sauce?
There are 6 whole beaten eggs in the béchamel sauce.
What fat is used for the béchamel base?
2/3 cup of unsalted butter is used to make the béchamel.
How much milk is needed for the béchamel?
The recipe requires 6 cups of hot milk.
What spice flavors the béchamel?
Freshly grated nutmeg is used to flavor the béchamel sauce.
What liquid is used to deglaze the meat?
1/2 cup of dry red wine is used for deglazing.
Does this recipe include cinnamon?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon is used for seasoning the meat layer.
What kind of oregano is used?
The recipe specifies 2 teaspoons of dried Greek oregano.
How much garlic is needed?
3 cloves of chopped garlic are used for sautéing.
What provides heat to the spice blend?
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is included for seasoning.
What kind of tomatoes are used in the meat sauce?
56 ounces of chopped Italian-style tomatoes, drained, are used.
Is tomato paste included?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste is added for richness.
How many onions are required?
2 medium chopped onions are needed for sautéing.
What type of salt is suggested for the potatoes?
Coarse salt is used for seasoning the potatoes.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 24 ingredients in this recipe.
Is this dish considered Mediterranean?
Yes, it is described as a taste of Mediterranean comfort.
How is the eggplant cooked?
The eggplant is brushed with olive oil and grilled or roasted.
Can I use olive oil for the meat layer?
Yes, 3 tablespoons of olive oil are used for sautéing the lamb.
Is nutmeg used in the meat mixture as well?
Yes, a pinch of ground nutmeg is added to the meat seasoning.
What occasions is this dish best for?
It is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.