Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Serbian Moussaka is a comforting and hearty dish made with layers of ground meat and potatoes, baked to golden perfection with a creamy egg and yogurt topping. Simpler than its Greek counterpart, this Balkan-style moussaka is a weeknight-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Its rustic charm and easy preparation make it a go-to for family dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

potatoesground beefonioneggsplain yogurtoilmilkpaprikasaltpepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Set aside.

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions until translucent.

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly over the potatoes.

Top with the remaining potato slices.

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, and a splash of milk. Season lightly with salt.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered potatoes and meat.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 45-50 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use ground pork or a beef-pork mix for richer flavor.

Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots for extra veggies.

Top with shredded cheese before the final bake for a cheesy crust.

Add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder to the egg mixture for added depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.Freezing is not recommended as the potatoes may change texture.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes should I use?

Waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold work best as they hold their shape during baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve. Keep refrigerated until baking.

Is Serbian moussaka spicy?

Not typically. It has mild seasoning, but you can add chili flakes for heat.

Can I use sour cream instead of yogurt?

Yes, sour cream is a great substitute and adds a tangy note.

Why is my moussaka watery?

Ensure the meat is well-cooked and drained before layering, and don’t overdo the milk in the egg mixture.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or breadcrumbs.

Can I use sweet potatoes?

You can, though it will slightly change the flavor profile and sweetness.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s mild and made with simple ingredients that kids usually enjoy.

What side dishes go well with moussaka?

A fresh salad, pickled vegetables, or crusty bread complement it well.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, swap the meat for sautéed vegetables or lentils for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Easy Serbian Moussaka is a soul-warming dish that brings traditional flavors to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for cozy dinners and leftovers the next day, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become part of your regular meal rotation. Simple, filling, and delicious—just the way comfort food should be.