Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a dish that combines crispy, buttery layers of phyllo with a deeply flavorful, spiced meat filling, then this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen. Bursting with aromatic cinnamon and allspice, rich ground meat, and fresh herbs wrapped in delicate golden sheets, this pie brings the heart of Greek comfort food to your table. Every bite tells a story of tradition and warmth that’s as satisfying to make as it is to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this pie may seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the flaky phyllo sheets to the savory spices, every element comes together to build a truly irresistible dish.

• Phyllo dough: The star of the show, providing delicate, crispy layers when baked; be sure to thaw it gently to avoid tearing.
• Ground beef or lamb: Choose your favorite protein for a rich, hearty filling that’s full of savory depth.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and a soft texture that melts into the meat as it cooks.
• Garlic cloves: Give a punchy, aromatic underpinning that lifts the flavor profile.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and bringing a fruity richness to the mixture.
• Tomato paste: Offers intense umami and a beautiful color to the filling.
• Ground cinnamon: Imparts a warm, slightly sweet note, key for authentic Greek flavor.
• Ground allspice: Adds complexity and a hint of earthiness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: To season and balance every bite.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens and freshens the filling with green, herbal freshness.
• Egg (beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the filling together beautifully.
• Melted butter: Used to brush every sheet of phyllo, ensuring a golden, flaky crust with every bite.

How to Make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s perfectly hot and ready to bake your pie. Grease the baking dish generously with butter; this step ensures the bottom phyllo sheets don’t stick and helps achieve that coveted crispiness.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

In a skillet warmed with olive oil, gently sauté your chopped onion until it softens and becomes translucent. This slow cooking releases sweetness and builds a flavorful base. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook just another minute so the fragrance blooms without burning.

Step 3: Cooking the Ground Meat

Add your ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook it thoroughly until browned. This step is crucial because the caramelized bits add robust flavor to the filling. Once browned, make sure to drain any excess fat for a perfectly moist yet not greasy pie.

Step 4: Adding the Spices and Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste along with ground cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. These spices are what transform the meat from ordinary to extraordinary, infusing it with warmth and depth. Let this mixture cook for about 3 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to harmonize, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Finishing the Filling

Allow the filling to cool slightly, which prevents the egg from scrambling in the next step. Stir in chopped fresh parsley and the beaten egg; the parsley adds a fresh pop while the egg binds everything together nicely, creating a luscious, uniform texture.

Step 6: Layering the Phyllo Dough

Carefully layer 6 to 7 sheets of phyllo in your prepared dish, brushing each sheet generously with melted butter. This process might take some patience, but the flaky, buttery layers are absolutely worth the effort.

Step 7: Adding the Filling

Spread the meat filling evenly over the phyllo base, making sure it’s distributed smoothly to ensure every slice is packed with hearty flavor.

Step 8: Topping with More Phyllo

Top the filling with another 6 to 7 sheets of phyllo, again brushing each sheet with butter to guarantee a golden, crisp finish. This double layering seals in the filling and delivers that signature crunch.

Step 9: Scoring the Top

Gently score the top phyllo with a sharp knife, cutting through only the upper layers. This careful scoring helps steam escape during baking and makes slicing much neater once the pie is cooked.

Step 10: Baking to Perfection

Bake your pie for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on that beautiful golden color—the crust should be perfectly crisp and inviting.

Step 11: Resting Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the filling to set, making slicing easier and keeping all that delicious filling in place.

How to Serve Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or a dollop of thick Greek yogurt on the side elevates this pie beautifully. These simple garnishes add color and a cool, creamy counterbalance to the warm spices.

Side Dishes

Accompany your pie with a crisp Greek salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese or a light lemony orzo to keep the meal balanced yet satisfying. These sides introduce fresh textures that complement the richness of the pie.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting the pie into smaller squares as finger food for a casual gathering or serve each slice atop a bed of sautéed greens to turn it into an elegant main course. Wrapping individual portions in phyllo twists or triangles can also make for an eye-catching appetizer plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pie retains its flavor and texture nicely, making for a delicious second-day meal.

Freezing

This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to two months—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the crust crisps up again and the filling is heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve that delightful phyllo crunch.

FAQs

Can I use different types of meat for this pie?

Absolutely! While ground beef or lamb is traditional and flavorful, ground turkey or pork can be used if you prefer a lighter or different taste. Just adjust the seasoning to suit the meat’s natural flavors.

Do I need to thaw phyllo dough before using it?

Yes, phyllo dough should be fully thawed but kept covered with a damp towel while working with it to prevent drying out. Handling it gently helps avoid tearing those delicate sheets.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Definitely. The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. This actually helps the flavors develop well. Just bring it back to room temperature before assembling the pie.

What can I substitute for fresh parsley if I don’t have any?

If fresh parsley isn’t on hand, fresh cilantro or even dried parsley can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind fresh herbs provide the brightest flavor and texture.

How do I keep the phyllo from drying out while assembling?

Cover the unused phyllo sheets with a damp kitchen towel while layering and brushing with butter. This prevents them from becoming brittle or tearing during assembly.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe is one of those dishes that warms your soul and delights every sense, whether you’re making it for a simple family dinner or sharing it with friends at a festive gathering. Its layers of buttered phyllo and aromatic, spiced filling are pure magic on a plate. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it sooner than later becomes a beloved go-to in your recipe collection!

Print