How to Make Moussaka - A Step-by-Step Guide

Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that is loved by many for its rich and hearty flavors. It is a perfect comfort food that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests. This dish is made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce, and then baked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures in moussaka is truly irresistible, making it a beloved dish in Greek cuisine.

One of the key ingredients in moussaka is eggplant, which adds a wonde...

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Ingredients

  • 3 eggplants, peeled and cut lengthwise into 1/2 inch thick slices
  • salt to taste
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon fines herbs
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, divided
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • ½ cup red wine
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 4 cups milk
  • ½ cup butter
  • 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • ground white pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Information

  • Prep Time: 45 mins
  • Cook Time: 1 hr
  • Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 1 9x13-inch moussaka

  • Lay eggplant slices on paper towels; sprinkle lightly with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
  • Warm olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Fry eggplant until browned, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels; set aside.
  • Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in ground beef, onions, and garlic; season with salt and black pepper. Cook and stir until beef is browned, 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Add parsley, fines herbs, cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Pour in tomato sauce and wine; mix well. Simmer for 20 minutes. Allow to cool, then stir in beaten egg.
  • Scald milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • At the same time, melt 1/2 cup butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Whisk flour into butter until smooth. Lower heat; gradually pour in scalded milk, whisking constantly until it thickens. Season béchamel sauce with salt and white pepper.
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Arrange a single layer of eggplant in the prepared baking dish.
  • Cover eggplant with meat sauce, then sprinkle 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese on top. Cover with remaining eggplant and sprinkle another 1/2 cup cheese on top.
  • Pour béchamel sauce on top and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Cover with remaining cheese.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and browned, about 1 hour.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!
  • Nutrition

    567 cal.

    • Total Fat: 39g
    • Saturated Fat: 18g
    • Cholesterol: 123mg
    • Sodium: 1017mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 29g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Total Sugars: 14g
    • Protein: 24g
    • Vitamin C: 6mg
    • Calcium: 351mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 742mg