Pastitsio is Greece’s answer to lasagna — but richer, more aromatic, and arguably more satisfying. It’s a layered baked pasta dish: tubular pasta (typically ziti or penne) layered with a cinnamon-spiced ground meat sauce, topped with a thick béchamel and Kefalotyri cheese, then baked until the top is golden and the whole dish has set into sliceable portions. At Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina in Lincoln Park, we make pastitsio from scratch as a rotating special — it takes the better part of a day to make properly, and we think it’s worth every minute.
What Is Pastitsio?
The name pastitsio comes from the Italian “pasticcio” (meaning baked pasta dish), reflecting the Italian influence on Greek cuisine during the Venetian occupation of parts of Greece. But the Greek version evolved into something distinctly its own: the cinnamon-allspice seasoning in the meat sauce, the specific pasta shape (hollow tubes that hold the sauce), and the thick béchamel crust are all signature Greek elements that separate pastitsio from any Italian pasta bake.
The Three Layers of Pastitsio
Bottom layer: Tubular pasta (ziti or bucatini) tossed with egg and Kefalotyri cheese
Middle layer: Ground beef and lamb sauce with cinnamon, allspice, red wine, and tomato
Top layer: Thick béchamel sauce with Kefalotyri cheese, baked until golden
Baking: Low oven for 45+ minutes until fully set — it must rest before slicing
Pastitsio vs. Moussaka
Pastitsio and moussaka are cousins — both are layered, baked Greek casseroles with spiced meat and béchamel. The key difference is the base: moussaka uses eggplant while pastitsio uses pasta. Moussaka has a lighter, slightly bitter character from the eggplant; pastitsio is more substantial and filling. In Greek homes, moussaka is a summer dish (eggplant season) while pastitsio is year-round comfort food. Both are worth trying at Yaya Mas.
The Spice That Makes Greek Pasta Bake Unique
The defining flavor in pastitsio (and Greek meat sauces generally) is cinnamon. To Western palates, cinnamon in a savory dish can seem unexpected — but in Greek cuisine, sweet spices like cinnamon and allspice have always been used to season meat, a tradition stretching back to ancient trade routes from the Eastern spice markets. When combined with tomato, red wine, and ground beef, cinnamon adds a warmth and complexity that makes Greek meat sauces unlike anything in Italian or French cooking.
Order Pastitsio in Chicago
Pastitsio is available as a rotating special at Yaya Mas — ask our team or check the menu for availability. When it’s on, it goes fast. We serve it with a simple Greek salad and warm bread, or as part of a family meal for dine-in and takeout. Delivery is available to Lincoln Park, Magnificent Mile / Magnificent Mile / River North, Logan Square, Lakeview, and across Chicago.
Visit Yaya Mas
Yaya Mas is at 1755 N Sheffield Ave, Lincoln Park, Chicago. Open daily from 9:30AM — late night until 5AM Wednesday through Saturday. View our full menu. Rated 4.7 stars on Google from over 1,000 reviews.
Explore More Greek Dishes
Greek Moussaka ·
Greek Gyros ·
Spanakopita ·
Greek Salad ·
Baklava ·
Loukoumades ·
All Greek Desserts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pastitsio?
Pastitsio is a traditional Greek baked pasta dish with three layers: tubular pasta, a cinnamon-spiced ground meat sauce, and a thick bechamel with Kefalotyri cheese, baked until golden. It is often called the Greek lasagna.
Where can I get pastitsio in Chicago?
Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina in Lincoln Park (1755 N Sheffield Ave) serves authentic pastitsio made from scratch as a rotating special. Available for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
What is the difference between pastitsio and moussaka?
Both are layered Greek casseroles with spiced meat and bechamel. Moussaka uses eggplant as the base while pastitsio uses tubular pasta. Pastitsio is more filling and pasta-forward; moussaka is lighter with a slight bitterness from the eggplant.
Can I order pastitsio for delivery in Chicago?
Yes – Yaya Mas delivers pastitsio (when available as a special) to Lincoln Park, Magnificent Mile / River North, Logan Square, Lakeview, and throughout Chicago. Check our menu for current availability.
Where can I find pastitsio near me in Chicago?
If you’re searching for pastitsio near me in Chicago, Yaya Mas in Lincoln Park is your answer. Located at 2901 N Sheffield Ave, we serve authentic Greek pasta bake made fresh — layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy béchamel, and penne pasta baked golden every day. Open daily for dine-in, takeout, and delivery throughout Chicago.