Greek Noodle Casserole (Pastitsio)

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Butter, for greasing the baking dish

Kosher salt

12 ounces egg noodles

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

3 cloves garlic, chopped or smashed

1 pound ground lamb

2 tablespoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

One 26-ounce jar tomato-basil sauce (3 1/4 cups)

1 1/2 packed cups fresh mint leaves, chopped

Sauce:

1 cup milk, at room temperature

1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature

3 cups grated Parmesan (about 6 ounces)

1 cup plain Greek yogurt, at room temperature

1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves, optional