Pastitsio IV

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef
• 1 pound (450 grams) ground pork
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound (450 grams) medium shell pasta
• 1 (16 ounce) package bechamel sauce
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (12 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

3 (intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and pork over medium heat. Drain the fat.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, red wine, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine the meat sauce, pasta, and bechamel sauce.
7. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
8. Top with the grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1/8 of the dish): * Calories: 550 * Fat: 25 grams * Protein: 30 grams * Carbohydrates: 50 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Rich and flavorful
• Creamy and cheesy
• Perfect for special occasions
• Can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake

User Comments:

• "This is the best pastitsio I've ever had! The flavors are amazing."
• "The perfect dish for a cold winter night."
• "I love the combination of the ground meat, pasta, and bechamel sauce."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have red wine on hand, you can substitute an equal amount of beef broth.
• To make the dish more flavorful, use a combination of ground beef and ground lamb.
• Pastitsio can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.