Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Serves: 6
Welcome to your new go-to family dinner! This Cheesy Moussaka Pasta Bake combines the classic flavors of Greek moussaka with the comforting appeal of Italian lasagna. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become an instant favorite in your home.
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups grated Devondale Mozzarella Cheese Block (500g)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 brown onion, finely chopped
1 eggplant, cut into 2cm pieces
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground allspice
600g lamb mince
2 tbsp tomato paste
400g can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup Massel chicken style liquid stock
2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano leaves, plus extra to serve
250g dried curls pasta
2 cups plain Greek-style yoghurt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp plain flour
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Toss in the eggplant pieces and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender. Add the crushed garlic, ground cinnamon, and allspice, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the lamb mince to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in the chopped fresh oregano.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the filling is simmering, cook the pasta in a large saucepan of boiling water until tender. Drain and return the pasta to the pan.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). Grease a 10-cup-capacity baking dish. Stir 1 cup of the mince mixture into the cooked pasta. Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and gently press it down to compact it. Spoon the remaining mince mixture over the top and smooth it out.
Step 4: Make the Topping
In a bowl, combine the Greek yoghurt, lightly beaten eggs, plain flour, and 1/4 cup of the grated mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon this yoghurt mixture over the mince layer in the baking dish, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Season with a bit more salt and pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden. Let the bake stand for 10 minutes before serving. Top with extra oregano for a fresh finish.
Enjoy!
This Cheesy Moussaka Pasta Bake is not just a meal, it’s an experience. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, it brings together the best of Greek and Italian cuisines into one delicious dish. Enjoy!
