Name: Greek Phyllo Meat Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 package phyllo dough (thawed); 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground allspice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 egg, beaten; 1/2 cup melted butter (for brushing phyllo)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie is a classic comfort food that brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crisp, buttery phyllo dough provides a satisfying crunch, while the spiced ground meat filling offers a hearty and savory taste. The hint of cinnamon and allspice gives the pie a unique, warm flavor profile that’s both aromatic and comforting. This pie is not only delicious but also gluten-free, making it a great option for a variety of diets. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering, or just a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 package phyllo dough (thawed)
1 lb ground beef or lamb
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground allspice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 egg, beaten
1/2 cup melted butter (for brushing phyllo)

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

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter and set it aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook, breaking it up, until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat.
Let the meat filling cool slightly. Once cooled, stir in the chopped parsley and beaten egg to bind the mixture together.
Lay 6-7 sheets of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter as you layer them.
Spread the meat filling evenly over the phyllo layers.
Top the filling with another 6-7 sheets of phyllo, again brushing each sheet with butter.
Using a sharp knife, gently score the top layer of phyllo to help with slicing later.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pie is golden brown and crispy on top.
Let the pie rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Swap the ground beef for lamb for a more traditional flavor.
For a vegetarian version, use a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and feta cheese as the filling.
Add some feta cheese to the filling for a creamy, tangy twist.
Spice it up by adding some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken in place of beef or lamb.

2. Can I make this pie in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to bake it fresh for the best texture.

3. Can I freeze the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie?

Yes, this pie can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

4. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of tomato paste?

While tomato paste is recommended for its concentrated flavor, you can substitute it with tomato sauce if needed. Just be sure to reduce the amount of liquid in the filling.

5. Do I need to cook the phyllo dough before using it?

No, phyllo dough should be used raw in this recipe. It will bake up crisp and golden in the oven.

6. Can I use gluten-free phyllo dough for this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free phyllo dough is available and can be used in this recipe to make it completely gluten-free.

7. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the meat filling for added flavor and texture.

8. How do I keep the phyllo dough from drying out?

Phyllo dough can dry out quickly, so it’s important to keep it covered with a damp towel while you work with it. Brush each layer with melted butter to keep it moist and flaky.

9. Can I use a different fat instead of butter for brushing the phyllo?

Yes, you can use olive oil or ghee instead of butter for a slightly different flavor, or for a dairy-free option.

10. How can I tell when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the top is golden brown and crispy. You can also test by gently lifting a corner of the phyllo and checking that the filling is hot throughout.

Conclusion

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie is a delicious and satisfying dish with layers of crispy, buttery phyllo dough and a savory, spiced meat filling. It’s perfect for anyone craving a flavorful meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re serving it at a special gathering or just making it for a cozy family dinner, this pie will become a favorite in no time. Its versatility allows for adjustments based on your preferences, making it an easy recipe to customize. Enjoy this delicious pie, and savor the blend of spices, textures, and flavors!