Classic Artichoke, Aubergine & Lamb Moussaka Recipe

deliciously layered moussaka

Looking for a comforting dish that will transport you to the Mediterranean? This Artichoke, Aubergine & Lamb Moussaka Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, perfect for anyone craving hearty UK recipes. It’s a rich, layered bake that combines tender lamb, creamy béchamel, and the earthy flavours of aubergine and artichokes.

This moussaka is your go-to recipe for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. The combination of flavors creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also has a unique taste profile that will impress even the most discerning palates. Serve it up with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Imagine the layers of tender lamb mingling with the robust taste of artichokes and the silky texture of aubergine, all topped with a luscious béchamel sauce. This moussaka is perfect for a Sunday roast or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.


Deliciously Layered Moussaka

Layered moussaka with lamb, aubergine, and béchamel, garnished with parsley on a rustic table.

This moussaka is a hearty Mediterranean bake, featuring layers of spiced lamb, artichokes, and aubergine, all enveloped in a creamy béchamel.

It’s rich and savoury, with a slight sweetness from the artichokes, making it a flavour-packed dish that’s perfect for sharing.


Ingredients

  • 500g minced lamb
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 aubergines, sliced
  • 1 can (400g) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 200g béchamel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 50g grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Lamb: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Add the minced lamb, cook until browned. Stir in chopped tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  2. Prepare Aubergine: While the lamb cooks, preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange sliced aubergine on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt. Roast for 25 minutes until golden and tender.
  3. Layer the Moussaka: In a baking dish, layer half of the roasted aubergine, followed by the lamb mixture, and then the artichokes. Top with the remaining aubergine slices. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
  5. Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side salad.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 6
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 25g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g

More Delicious Moussaka Recipe Variations You Need to Try

Get ready to level up your Moussaka game with these fresh recipe ideas! From traditional twists to creative spins, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this classic dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these recipes are sure to please your palate.

Vegetarian Moussaka with Lentils and Zucchini

A delicious vegetarian moussaka with lentils and zucchini topped with melted cheese.

This vegetarian moussaka is packed with lentils and zucchini, making it a hearty and healthy option for dinner. The layers of flavors blend perfectly, and the creamy top gives it a delicious finish. Serve it warm with a side salad for a satisfying meal!

Spicy Lamb Moussaka with Cinnamon and Nutmeg

A tray of spicy lamb moussaka topped with cheese and herbs.

Spicy lamb moussaka is a delicious twist on the classic recipe. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg gives it a warm, aromatic flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it hot, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Moussaka-Stuffed Peppers for a Twist

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with Moussaka filling and topped with cheese.

Try out Moussaka-stuffed peppers for a fun take on a classic dish. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with savory layers of meat, eggplant, and spices, topped with melted cheese. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Moussaka in a new shape!

Moussaka with a Mediterranean Twist: Quinoa and Spinach

A delicious vegetarian moussaka with lentils and zucchini topped with melted cheese.

Switching up traditional moussaka with quinoa and spinach adds a fresh spin to this classic dish. The quinoa provides a nice nutty flavor while the spinach packs in some healthy greens. Topping it off with a bit of cheese or a drizzle of olive oil really brings it all together!

Classic Greek Moussaka with Eggplant Layers

A close-up of classic Greek moussaka with eggplant layers, showing creamy béchamel and seasoned meat.

Classic Greek Moussaka is a cozy dish layered with eggplant, seasoned meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. Each bite brings together rich flavors that make it a family favorite. This dish is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table for a hearty meal.

Mini Moussaka Cups Perfect for Appetizers

Mini Moussaka Cups in a muffin tray

Mini moussaka cups are a fun twist on the classic dish. These little bites are perfect for gatherings, offering all the flavors of traditional moussaka in a single serving. Your guests will love how easy they are to eat, making them a great choice for any event!

Seafood Moussaka with Shrimp and Feta

A colorful seafood moussaka topped with shrimp and feta cheese on a yellow plate.

Seafood moussaka is a fun twist on the traditional dish. Using shrimp adds a tasty touch, while feta brings a creamy, tangy flavor. This combination makes for a hearty meal that’s sure to impress your guests!

Gluten-Free Moussaka with Sweet Potatoes

A plate of gluten-free moussaka featuring sweet potatoes and a rich sauce.

This gluten-free moussaka is a tasty twist on a classic dish. Swapping traditional potatoes for sweet potatoes adds a hint of sweetness and extra nutrients. It’s a great way to enjoy comfort food without sacrificing your dietary needs!

Moussaka Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

Moussaka casserole with layers of cheese, tomato sauce, and cauliflower rice.

This Moussaka casserole swaps traditional ingredients for a lighter twist using cauliflower rice. It brings a comforting, creamy layer that everyone will love. Try it for dinner and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Moussaka with Ricotta and Spinach for Creaminess

A slice of creamy moussaka with ricotta and spinach, garnished with cherry tomatoes.

Switching things up with ricotta and spinach in your moussaka is a game changer! This creamy twist adds a lovely texture and flavor that everyone will enjoy. Try it out and see how it brightens your next meal!


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