If you’re craving a dish that wraps up all the warmth and rustic charm of Mediterranean home cooking, the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe should be at the top of your list. This pie combines layers of buttery, flaky phyllo dough with a perfectly spiced, savory filling of ground meat, herbs, and creamy feta cheese. It’s a dish that brings people together around the table, offering comfort and bold flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a joyful celebration of Greek culinary tradition.

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe are wonderfully simple yet pack a powerhouse of flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays its part—from the fragrant spices that warm the filling to the crisp, buttery sheets of phyllo that create irresistible layers.

  • Ground beef or lamb: Choose either for a rich, hearty base that defines the filling’s meaty goodness.
  • Small onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and a tender bite once cooked down.
  • Garlic cloves (minced): Provides aromatic depth and that classic savory kick.
  • Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and brushing the phyllo, enriching the overall flavor.
  • Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that brings a unique, inviting twist to the savory meat.
  • Ground allspice: Adds a layered, slightly sweet background note.
  • Dried oregano: Classic Greek herb that brightens and balances the spices.
  • Salt and pepper: To season perfectly, enhancing all other ingredients.
  • Tomato paste: Concentrated flavor that gives the filling its beautiful richness and a subtle tang.
  • Red wine (optional): Adds complexity and tenderizes the meat as it simmers.
  • Crumbled feta cheese: Brings a creamy, salty burst to contrast the spiced meat.
  • Fresh parsley (chopped): A fresh, herby finish for brightness and color.
  • Phyllo dough (8 sheets, thawed): The star ingredient creating that iconic, flaky crust.
  • Melted butter or olive oil for brushing: This ensures the phyllo bakes up golden and crisp.

How to Make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the flavorful filling

First things first, warm your skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté it gently until it’s soft and translucent. This takes about 4 minutes and sets a sweet base for your filling. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to unlock its aromatic magic. Next, brown your choice of ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the tomato paste and all the uplifting spices—cinnamon, allspice, oregano—with salt and pepper to taste. Pour in red wine if you’re using it, letting the mixture simmer until the flavors meld and the liquid reduces into a thick, rich sauce. Finish by folding in crumbled feta and fresh parsley, creating a filling that’s savory, tangy, and fragrant.

Step 2: Assemble the pie with care

Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking. Lay your first phyllo sheet gently in the dish, allowing the edges to hang over the sides—it will help with folding later. Brush the sheet generously with melted butter; this step is crucial as it creates that golden, crispy texture. Repeat this layering and brushing process with four sheets, building a solid, buttery base. Then, spoon the meat filling over this phyllo foundation, spreading it evenly so every slice has a perfect balance of crust and filling.

Step 3: Top and bake to perfection

Cover the meat layer with the remaining four phyllo sheets, again brushing each layer with butter as you go. Carefully tuck in the edges to encase the filling, making sure your pie is sealed. Using a sharp knife, score the top layer in a crisscross pattern—it hides a secret to easier slicing once baked. Pop your pie into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the phyllo is beautifully golden and crisp. After baking, let your pie rest for about 10 minutes before slicing; this helps the filling set and makes serving a breeze.

How to Serve Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Keep it simple and fresh by sprinkling chopped parsley or a few crumbles of feta cheese over each slice for added color and flavor. A dollop of creamy tzatziki brings a cool, refreshing contrast that pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced filling. For a bright pop, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving lifts the whole dish in the best way.

Side Dishes

This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe shines equally well alongside traditional Greek salad loaded with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and a drizzle of oregano-tinged dressing. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber and yogurt salad to keep the meal light and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to bring a touch of flair? Try cutting the pie into individual square servings and garnishing each with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon. For gatherings, serve the pie with small bowls of tzatziki and hummus for dipping, turning it into an interactive experience. Wrapping the pie slices in parchment paper and tying with kitchen string makes a charming, rustic presentation perfect for picnics or casual meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe leftovers keep exceptionally well when wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so you’ll find the next-day taste just as delightful. Store in an airtight container or cover the dish with foil to maintain crispness.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save portions for later, you can freeze this pie after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months—great for those busy days when you need a comforting meal ready to go.

Reheating

To bring your leftover pie back to life, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until the phyllo is crisp again and the filling is warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunchy texture intact. An air fryer also does a fantastic job of reheating while preserving that flaky goodness.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or lamb in this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that still works well with the spices and phyllo. Keep in mind the flavor will be milder, so consider adding a little extra seasoning to compensate.

Is it necessary to use butter for brushing the phyllo?

While butter gives the phyllo its characteristic golden, flaky finish, olive oil can be used as a lighter option. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious and authentic.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

You can substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mixture of vegetables and still enjoy a satisfying pie. Just be sure to adjust seasoning and add some crumbled feta or your favorite cheese for richness.

How many servings does this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe make?

This recipe yields about 6 generous servings, perfect for a family meal or small dinner party.

Can I prepare this pie ahead of time before baking?

Yes! You can assemble the pie, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing a Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe. It’s a dish that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into a comforting masterpiece with flaky layers and a flavorful filling that will warm your heart and soul. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become a beloved favorite in your kitchen just as it is in mine.

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Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe


3.9 from 81 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A savory Greek Phyllo Meat Pie featuring ground beef or lamb, aromatic spices, and creamy feta cheese wrapped in buttery, flaky phyllo dough. This classic Mediterranean main course offers a delicious blend of tender meat filling and crisp pastry, perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat Filling

  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Phyllo Dough and Assembly

  • 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
  • 1/3 cup melted butter or olive oil for brushing

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature for the pie.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook Meat: Add ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat to prevent greasiness.
  4. Add Spices and Simmer: Stir in tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, oregano, salt, pepper, and red wine if using. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid reduces and the flavors meld.
  5. Mix in Feta and Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley to add creaminess and freshness to the filling.
  6. Prepare Phyllo in Pie Dish: Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish, letting edges hang over the sides. Brush the sheet lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 4 sheets, brushing each repeatedly with butter for a crisp, golden crust.
  7. Add Meat Filling: Spoon the meat mixture evenly atop the layered phyllo sheets in the pie dish.
  8. Top with Remaining Phyllo: Lay the remaining 4 phyllo sheets over the meat filling, brushing each sheet generously with butter and tucking in the edges to seal the pie.
  9. Score and Bake: Lightly score the top phyllo layer with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the phyllo is golden brown and crisp.
  10. Rest and Serve: Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the filling set for easier portions.

Notes

  • For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef or lamb.
  • Serve with a fresh Greek salad or tangy tzatziki for a complete Mediterranean meal.
  • Leftover pie reheats well in the oven or air fryer, preserving crispness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek

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