Pastitsio {greek pasta}

This pasta dish is creamy and full of flavor. This dinner comes together in no time and I love the hint of cinnamon, it really stands out to make this meal wonderful!



Ingredients:

1 package {7oz} uncooked short pasta
1 lb. ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 can {8oz.} tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
3 teaspoons butter
3 teaspoons flour
1-1/2 cups low-fat/fat free milk
1 egg, beaten

1. Cook pasta for 8-10 minutes. While pasta is cooking, cook the ground turkey, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is cooked through. Stir in the tomato sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, oregano, pepper and cinnamon.
2.Drain the pasta. Place half the noodles into a greased 9x9 pan. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese. Next layer with meat mixture and the remaining macaroni. Set aside.
3.In a small sauce pan, melt the butter and stir in the flour and remaining salt until smooth. Gradually add the milk. Bring to a boil, cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from the heat. Stir a small amount of the hot mixture into the beaten egg. Pour the egg mixture into the sauce pan stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Remove form heat and add remaining cheese.Pour sauce over the macaroni.
5. Bake uncovered at 350 for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

* Serve this meal with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli or green beans. Add some toasted garlic bread and you are ready!