Freezer Meal - Pastitsio, a traditional Greek dish

Serves 6

angela bowling

ingredients

16 oz penne pasta
2 lbs ground beef
2 white onions, diced
1/2 C red wine
1 6-ounce can tomato paste
1/2 tsp cinnamon
6 tbsp butter
1/2 C flour
3 C milk
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 C Parmesan, grated
2 2-quart disposable baking pans

directions

1
[1] Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and set aside. In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the beef, breaking into small pieces. Drain fat, add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add wine, and cook until almost all liquid has evaporated. Stir in tomato paste, cinnamon and 2 cups water. Simmer until thickened, 20 minutes.
2
[2] Meanwhile, prepare Parmesan sauce. In a medium pan, melt butter, add flour and cook, stirring until blended.
3
Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly. Cook 5 minutes, until thick and bubbly. Stir in red pepper and Parmesan cheese, set aside.
4
[3] Add pasta to beef mixture, stir gently to combine. Pour into 2- 2 quart baking dishes. Pour cheese sauce
5
over both, spreading evenly. Cover with foil. Using packing tape, affix cooking label to each pan. Lay flat in freezer.
6
COOKING DIRECTIONS:
7
Thaw.
8
[1] Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
9
[2] Bake 35 minutes, until heated through and lightly browned.

notes

486 calories; 29 grams protein; 20 grams total fat; 10 grams saturated fat; 47 grams carbohydrates; 2 grams fiber This one takes some time, but is really worth the effort. I made this before both Joey and Vince were born to have on hand for dinner.

Source: angela bowling