Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you to a sun-soaked Greek island? The Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner is one such recipe. Imagine golden, flaky phyllo pastry enveloping a rich filling of spiced meat, fresh herbs, and creamy cheese. Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a savory explosion of flavors that dance on your palate.
This dish holds a special place in my heart; it reminds me of family gatherings where laughter fills the air and the aroma of warm pies beckons everyone to the table. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting friends for dinner, or simply craving comfort food, this pie stands out as a crowd-pleaser. The anticipation builds as it bakes, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent. Trust me; you’ll want to savor each layer of this delicious creation.
Key Ingredients For Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Ground Lamb or Beef: Choose high-quality meat for the best flavor. Ground lamb gives an authentic touch, while beef is also delicious.
-
Onion: Use yellow or sweet onions for sweetness and depth in the filling.
-
Garlic: Fresh garlic will enhance the overall taste of your meat pie with its aromatic quality.
-
Spices: Cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg will add warmth and complexity to the filling.
-
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill brighten up the flavor profile and add freshness to each bite.
-
Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the meat.
-
Phyllo Dough: Use thawed phyllo sheets for that signature flaky texture. Handle carefully to prevent tearing.
-
Butter or Olive Oil: Brush between layers for extra richness and crispiness in the crust.
-
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds creaminess and tanginess that balances the savory filling perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step : Prepare Your Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Second Step : Cook the Meat
Add ground lamb or beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until browned, breaking up any clumps with a wooden spoon. Stir in chopped parsley, dill, and toasted pine nuts.
Third Step : Assemble Phyllo Layers
Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in a greased baking dish. Brush lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Repeat layering with several sheets until you have about five layers.
Fourth Step : Add Filling
Spread half of the meat filling over your layered phyllo sheets. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Then continue layering more phyllo sheets brushed with butter.
Fifth Step : Top it Off
Spread the remaining meat mixture evenly over the last layer of phyllo dough. Finish by layering additional sheets on top, brushing each with butter until you have at least five layers again.
Sixth Step : Bake
Cut into squares before baking for easy serving. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
Transfer to plates and enjoy this flavorful dish with a side salad or yogurt sauce for dipping!
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and spices; they will elevate your pie’s flavor significantly.
-
Don’t Rush Phyllo Preparation: Take your time when layering phyllo dough; it’s crucial for achieving that flaky texture.
-
Control Moisture Levels: Make sure not to overcook your meat mixture; excess moisture can make phyllo soggy.
-
Let It Rest: Allow your pie to rest after baking; this helps maintain its shape when cut into pieces.
Presentation Ideas
This Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
-
A fresh Greek salad: Serve a vibrant salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. The acidity of the dressing complements the richness of the pie.
-
Tzatziki sauce: This creamy yogurt-based dip adds a refreshing touch. Its coolness balances the savory flavors in the phyllo meat pie perfectly.
-
Roasted vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted vegetables enhances the meal’s presentation. Choose colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a delightful platter.
Storage Tips
To keep your Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner fresh, store leftovers properly. Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to three days.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. This method preserves flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish later.
When ready to eat, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the phyllo crust soggy.
Nutritional Information
The Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner offers a balanced mix of macronutrients. Each serving contains protein from ground meat, healthy fats from olive oil and butter used in phyllo pastry, and carbohydrates from the layers of dough.
The addition of herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also adds antioxidants. Be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching calorie intake; this dish is hearty but can fit into a well-rounded diet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner hot from the oven for optimal enjoyment. Slice into wedges to showcase its beautiful layers. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance visual appeal.
Pairing this dish with a glass of crisp white wine can elevate your dining experience further. Consider a light Moschofilero or Assyrtiko that complements flavors without overpowering them.
FAQs
What is included in the Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie recipe?
The Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner typically includes ground meat such as beef or lamb, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for depth. Fresh herbs like parsley enhance its aroma while shredded cheese adds richness. The flaky phyllo pastry serves as a perfect vessel that holds all these delicious ingredients together.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie ahead of time. Store it covered in the refrigerator overnight before baking it when you’re ready to serve your guests. This makes it convenient for hectic weeknights or special occasions where you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen on the day of serving.
How can I customize my Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie?
Feel free to get creative with your Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner by incorporating different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into your filling. You may also experiment with various cheeses such as feta or ricotta for added creaminess. For those who prefer vegetarian options, substitute ground meat with lentils or chickpeas seasoned similarly.
What sides go well with this dish?
Complement your Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner with sides that balance its richness. A simple Greek salad brings freshness while tzatziki adds creaminess without heaviness. Roasted vegetables provide color and nutrients while keeping your meal light yet satisfying—perfect accompaniments that enhance both taste and presentation!
Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie – Savory Layers for the Perfect Dinner
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Transport yourself to a sun-soaked Greek island with this delicious Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Layered with flaky phyllo pastry, seasoned ground meat, fresh herbs, and creamy feta, each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and savory explosion of flavors. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish will impress your family and friends while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
- 8 sheets phyllo dough (thawed)
- ½ cup butter or olive oil (melted)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground lamb or beef with salt and pepper, then add cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook until browned. Mix in parsley, dill, and pine nuts.
- In a greased baking dish, layer one sheet of phyllo dough and brush it lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Repeat for five layers.
- Spread half of the meat filling over the phyllo layers and sprinkle crumbled feta on top. Continue layering phyllo sheets brushed with butter.
- Spread the remaining meat mixture evenly over the last layer of phyllo dough. Finish with additional layers brushed with butter.
- Cut into squares before baking for easy serving. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
