Pastitsio problem with the filling

[redsoxdw_]

I have been trying to get the flavor of the filling for pastitsio correct. Both the filling and the flavors are off. Each time I cook it, there's a new issue. One time, I overcooked the pasta. The other, I wasn't happy with the quality of the meat. One time, I dumped far too much cinnamon in.

Roughly, this is the list of ingredients I use. What do you guys think? For you, what makes for the perfect pastitsio filling?

18 ounces pasta (I use penne)
1 pound of ground beef (90/10 mixture)
1 medium onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1 tbsp. dried oregano
1 can crushed tomatoes (medium can)

This is just for the filling, not the "krema" that goes on top.

 

[Tpebop]

Do NOT pre cook the pasta. That is probably why it was overcooked

 

[The Greek Vibe]

I have been trying to get the flavor of the filling for pastitsio correct. Both the filling and the flavors are off. Each time I cook it, there's a new issue. One time, I overcooked the pasta. The other, I wasn't happy with the quality of the meat. One time, I dumped far too much cinnamon in.

Roughly, this is the list of ingredients I use. What do you guys think? For you, what makes for the perfect pastitsio filling?

18 ounces pasta (I use penne)
1 pound of ground beef (90/10 mixture)
1 medium onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1 tbsp. dried oregano
1 can crushed tomatoes (medium can)

This is just for the filling, not the "krema" that goes on top.

perhaps you should try this recipe. Pastichio need patience and step by step. Always make sure to go lightly on the spice, especially cinnamon

 

[PemiKanavos]

What exactly seams off to you? Each family has their way of making pastichio. not on way is right or wrong. And these differences might be minor but enough to make a difference. Your filling recipe looks fine, but it’s how you will fine tune it. For instance, I like deglazing my beef with ⅓ cup of wine and I add a pinch of clove. I also like adding a bit of parsley in the beef towards the end. Most don’t add parsley.
There is a great recipe in Our book “Cooking Greek” if you would like to try a good recipe.

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Do NOT pre cook the pasta. That is probably why it was overcooked

Great tip! I made this mistake once and I'll never make it again.

 

[redsoxdw_]

A couple of things - I cooked the pasta and maybe I shouldn't have. I also don't like nutmeg - maybe I will skip it next time. Pemi, I'll try the recipe in the cookbook next!