Greek Phyllo Meat Pie

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that blends flaky pastry, seasoned meat, and old-world comfort into every bite. That’s exactly what I feel every time I make this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. It’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply nostalgic—bringing to mind images of family gatherings and rich Mediterranean aromas wafting from the oven.

The layers of golden phyllo, brushed lovingly with olive oil, surround a rich and savory filling of ground meat, onions, and warm spices. When it bakes, the pastry crisps to a delicate crunch that gives way to the juicy, seasoned center. It’s the kind of dish that makes people pause mid-bite and ask for the recipe. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve shared this one.

What I love most is how versatile it is. I’ve served it hot for dinner, packed it for lunch the next day, and even brought it to potlucks where it disappeared almost immediately. It’s rustic yet elegant, and whether you call it kreatopita or just a great meat pie, it’s destined to become a favorite at your table too.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie

This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie isn’t just another meat dish—it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. You get that irresistible contrast between the flaky, paper-thin phyllo and the rich, herb-scented filling. It’s a meal that feels special without being complicated to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or holiday spreads, and thanks to its make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature, it works just as well for meal prep or unexpected guests.

Ingredients

Ground beef is the soul of this pie. It adds richness and a satisfying bite to the filling. I like using an 80/20 blend to keep the texture moist and flavorful.

Onions bring a sweet and earthy base to the meat mixture. As they soften and caramelize slightly, they deepen the overall flavor of the filling.

Garlic adds a sharp, aromatic quality that balances the richness of the meat and wakes up the entire dish with a familiar Mediterranean warmth.

Olive oil is essential for brushing the phyllo dough, helping it crisp up beautifully and giving it that signature golden glow.

Cinnamon and allspice may seem unusual in a savory dish, but they add that unmistakably Greek flavor, making the pie warmly spiced and unique.

Eggs help bind the filling, giving it structure and a light fluffiness once baked.

Phyllo dough wraps everything together with its signature crisp, flaky layers. Handle it gently and keep it covered as you work so it doesn’t dry out.

How to Make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a skillet, then add chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and just starting to brown. Add the garlic and cook briefly before stirring in the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add in your cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cool slightly before stirring in beaten eggs.

Step 2: Layer the Phyllo

Preheat your oven and grease a baking dish. Unroll the phyllo and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Layer about half the sheets into the dish, brushing each with olive oil. Let some overhang the sides.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Spoon the meat filling over the layered phyllo, spreading it evenly. Fold the overhanging edges over the filling, then continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each with more olive oil.

Step 4: Score and Bake

Using a sharp knife, gently score the top layers into squares or diamonds. This helps with serving and creates those beautifully defined pieces. Bake until the top is golden and crisp. Let it cool slightly before serving to help the layers set.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to explore beyond ground beef, try using ground lamb or even a mix of the two for a richer and more traditional Greek flavor. For a leaner version, ground turkey or chicken can also work, though you might want to add a bit more olive oil to keep it juicy.

Vegetarians can enjoy a delicious version too by replacing the meat with a hearty mixture of mushrooms, lentils, and walnuts. The seasoning can stay the same to maintain that classic taste.

Not a fan of allspice or cinnamon? Try a pinch of nutmeg or some dried oregano for a different but still warm flavor profile. And if you can’t find phyllo dough, you could use puff pastry, though the texture will be more buttery and less crisp.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Greek Phyllo Meat Pie is the kind of dish that pairs beautifully with a simple Greek salad—think tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil and lemon. It also goes well with a dollop of tzatziki or a tangy yogurt sauce on the side.

For a fuller spread, serve it alongside lemon roasted potatoes or steamed green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. A glass of dry red wine like Agiorgitiko or a crisp white like Assyrtiko completes the experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy texture of the phyllo. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the pastry soggy.

You can also freeze the pie either baked or unbaked. If baked, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing. To reheat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F until warmed through and crisp again.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pie up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge covered tightly with plastic wrap. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What type of meat is best for Greek Phyllo Meat Pie?

Ground beef is traditional, but ground lamb adds an authentic Greek twist. You can even mix the two for extra depth of flavor.

Can I freeze Greek Phyllo Meat Pie?

Definitely. Once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven straight from frozen.

Is Greek Phyllo Meat Pie served hot or cold?

It’s best served warm, right out of the oven or after a brief reheat. Though, room temperature slices are still delicious.

Can I use store-bought phyllo dough for Greek Phyllo Meat Pie?

Yes, store-bought phyllo works perfectly. Just remember to thaw it properly and keep it covered while assembling to prevent it from drying out.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re a fan of savory, comforting meals wrapped in flaky goodness, you have to try my Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re craving something flavorful and hearty. Another dish you might love is my Roasted Zucchini and Squash Recipe—a bright, healthy side that pairs beautifully with hearty mains like this meat pie.

For something equally crave-worthy but with a playful twist, check out the Homemade Big Mac Wraps with Secret Sauce. It’s a clever spin on a fast food classic that brings bold, familiar flavors into your kitchen.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this delicious Greek Phyllo Meat Pie get lost in the scroll! Pin it to your favorite dinner or Mediterranean recipes board on Pinterest so you can find it when you need a show-stopping dish. Share it with your friends and food-loving family members, too—they’ll thank you for introducing them to their new favorite savory pie. Whether it’s via text, email, or social media, spreading good food is always a great idea.

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