Spinach Pastitsio

1. 1

   Cook beef, onion, and carrot in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain well; return meat mixture to pan. Add tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper and next 4 ingredients;bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer uncovered, 28 minutes or until liquid evaporates, stirring occasionally.

2. 2

   Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.

3. 3

   Combine milk and next 3 ingredients in a large, heavy saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat to 180u00b0F or until tiny bubbles form around edge(DO NOT BOIL). Remove from heat. Cover; let stand 10 minutes. Strain mixture through a sieve into a bowl; discard solids. Set milk mixture aside.

4. 4

   Preheat oven to 375u00b0F.

5. 5

   Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add flour, stirring well with a whisk. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add milk mixture, stirring well with a whisk;cook over medium heat until thick (about 10 minutes). Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and nutmeg. Remove form heat; stir in 1/2 cup cheese. Reserve 1 1/2 cups sauce.

6. 6

   Combine pasta and remaining cheese sauce. Spoon half of pasta mixture into a 13x9-inch baking dish coated with a cooking spray. Spoon meat mixture over pasta. Top with remaining pasta mixture. Pour reserved cheese sauce evenly over pasta layer. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup cheese.

7. 7

   Bake at 375u00b0F for 25 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.