Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of spiced beef and sweet leeks wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling taverna on the Greek coast. There’s something magical about preparing a Crispy Greek Phyllo Meat Pie, or Kimadopita, that makes the experience feel like a warm embrace. This flaky pastry is not just a savory dish; it’s a high-protein delight that comes together with surprisingly quick prep time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting homemade meal, this recipe is bound to impress. With endless variations, you can customize the filling to suit your taste—think sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of cheese for extra creaminess. The delightful crunch of the phyllo crust, paired with a tender, flavorful filling, creates a dish that’s hard to resist. Ready to embark on this culinary journey with me? Let’s make some magic together! Why Is This Greek Meat Pie So Special? Unmatched Flakiness: The phyllo pastry forms a delightful, crispy shell that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, spiced filling. Endless Adaptability: Feel free to customize the filling with ingredients like mushrooms or cheese to cater to your cravings! Quick Preparation: Despite its gourmet look, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Crowd Pleaser: Serve it at gatherings, and watch as everyone raves about the irresistible flavors of this traditional Greek dish! Looking for more inspiration? Check out my Melt Mouth Meatloaf for another comforting dinner option! Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Ingredients • Dive into the world of flavors with this must-try dish! For the Filling Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the meat and greasing the pan; vegetable oil or melted butter works too. Ground Beef (500g) – The star protein of this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie; try half pork or lamb for a twist. Leeks (200g) – Adds a mild sweetness to the filling; onions can substitute in a pinch. Onion (130g) – Deepens the flavor profile; shallots offer a gentler taste if preferred. Ground Allspice (1 tsp) – Lifts the recipe with warm spices; skip it for a simpler flavor. Ground Nutmeg (½ tsp) – Adds a touch of warmth; use sparingly or omit if you’re not a fan. Sweet Paprika (2 tsp) – Enhances color and sweetness; smoked paprika can provide a unique twist. Ground Cinnamon (⅓ tsp) – Brings out subtle sweetness; feel free to leave it out for a less sweet flavor. Ground Coriander (1 tsp) – Offers a bright note; replace with cumin for a more earthy flavor. Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, minced) – Infuses freshness into the filling; dill or oregano can be great substitutes. For the Phyllo Layers Phyllo Pastry (450g) – The flaky outer layer; shortcrust pastry can be swapped if desired. Milk (145g, ⅔ cup) – Binds the layers together; non-dairy milk is a great alternative. Greek Yogurt (70g, 3 tbsp) – Adds a creamy tang; sour cream or non-dairy yogurt work as alternatives. Water (80ml) – Used to thin the milk mixture; it can be omitted or replaced with more milk. Eggs (2 medium) – Binds the filling and adds richness; a flaxseed meal mixture offers a vegan substitute. In every bite of this Greek Phyllo Meat Pie, you’re not just savoring a dish but indulging in a tradition that warms the heart! Enjoy this culinary journey! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Step 1: Thaw the Phyllo Begin by thawing the phyllo pastry overnight in the refrigerator. When ready to use, leave it at room temperature for about an hour to become pliable. This step is crucial to ensure the pastry layers are easy to work with while assembling your delicious Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Step 2: Sauté the Meat In a non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and no longer pink. The meat should be nicely caramelized; this enhances the flavor of your yummy filling, setting the stage for the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices Stir in your chopped leeks and onion, allowing them to soften for about 4-5 minutes over medium heat. Next, add the ground allspice, nutmeg, paprika, cinnamon, coriander, and mix well, allowing the spices to toast and release their aromas. Once the vegetables are tender, remove from heat and fold in the fresh parsley. Step 4: Prepare the Oven and Milk Mixture Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to get it ready. While the oven warms, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, water, remaining olive oil, and eggs in a large bowl. Ensure the mixture is well-combined, adding richness to the phyllo layers and contributing to the overall flavor of your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Step 5: Assemble the Phyllo Layers Cut the phyllo stack in half to fit your 13 x 9-inch pan. Grease the pan lightly with olive oil, then layer two sheets of phyllo, drizzling some of the milk mixture on top to keep it moist. Repeat this layering process until you use half the phyllo, creating a sturdy base for your pie. Step 6: Add the Filling Carefully spread the spiced meat mixture evenly over the phyllo base. This flavorful filling should cover the entire surface, providing a hearty center to your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Then, continue layering the remaining phyllo sheets on top, drizzling the milk mixture between each layer to encourage that delightful flakiness. Step 7: Final Assembly Once all layers are assembled, cut the pie into 8 pieces using a sharp knife, ensuring each portion has a bit of filling. Pour any remaining milk mixture on top to soak into the layers. This will create a golden, crispy top crust while baking and meld the flavors beautifully. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Transfer your pie to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes, as you want that perfect crunch. The tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen will signal that your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie is almost ready to serve! Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Variations & Substitutions Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen! These delightful swaps and additions will enhance your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie while keeping your taste buds dancing. Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt and milk with non-dairy yogurt and almond or oat milk for a delicious vegan twist. Different Meat: Switch ground beef for a mix of half lamb and half pork for a deeper, richer flavor profile. Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini into the filling to pack extra nutrition without compromising flavor. Herb Blend: Incorporate fresh dill or thyme instead of parsley to introduce a seasonal herbaceous note that’ll elevate the dish. Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some crumbled feta or Kasseri cheese for a creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices. Spice it Up: For a fiery kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or incorporate fresh chili peppers. Nutty Flavor: Toss in some pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the flakiness of the phyllo. Smoky Twist: Replace sweet paprika with smoked paprika to deepen the flavor profile and add a wonderful smoky aroma. If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore another delightful dessert like the Mississippi Mud Pie or try a comforting Chocolate Pecan Pie? Embrace the flavors, and happy cooking! Tips for the Best Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Proper Phyllo Handling: Be sure to cover remaining phyllo sheets with a damp tea towel to prevent them from drying out while you assemble your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Meat Browning: Brown the ground beef well in step 2 to enhance the flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the meat instead of browning it. Layering Technique: Use a generous drizzle of the milk mixture between phyllo layers to ensure each layer stays moist and achieves that irresistible crispiness when baked. Cut Before Baking: Cut the pie into pieces before putting it in the oven. This allows even cooking and makes it easier to serve. Make Ahead Option: Prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate or freeze it. Just remember to pour the milk mixture over before baking to keep the phyllo layers flakey. What to Serve with Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Transform your meal with these delicious side dishes to complement your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie! Maroulosalata: This refreshing leafy green salad adds a crisp and light contrast to the hearty pie, enhancing the overall dining experience. Toss in a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a bright touch. Melitzanosalata: A creamy eggplant dip that pairs beautifully with the meat pie’s spiced flavors, serving as a wonderful, spreadable appetizer for guests to enjoy. Tzatziki Sauce: Serve alongside a tangy yogurt, cucumber, and garlic sauce that cools and balances the rich filling. It’s perfect for dipping or drizzling on your slice! Greek Yogurt with Honey: This simple but indulgent dessert provides a light sweetness to cleanse your palate after the savory pie. Paprika Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these deliciously seasoned potatoes bring a lovely earthy flavor that complements the spiced beef filling. Olive Tapenade Crostini: Elevate your appetizer game with crunchy crostini topped with a tangy olive tapenade. It offers a bold flavor that pairs fabulously with the pie! Pine Nut and Spinach Salad: A fresh burst of flavor from the spinach and a nutty crunch provide a delightful contrast. Drizzle with a balsamic dressing for extra zing. Wine Pairing: A glass of dry white wine, such as Assyrtiko, enhances the dish beautifully, adding a crisp note that complements the savory richness of the meat pie. Make Ahead Options These delicious Greek Phyllo Meat Pies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can assemble the entire pie and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. To maintain the flakiness of the pastry, cover any leftover phyllo with a damp tea towel while working. When ready to serve, just pour any remaining milk mixture over the assembled pie, pop it in the oven, and bake for 40-45 minutes until it’s golden and crispy. You’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore the crispiness of the phyllo. Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it will hold for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Baked Pie: If you have leftover baked pie, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, a quick 10-15 minute bake will bring back the flaky texture. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for those busy weeknights. Just remember to pour the milk mixture over the top before baking for optimal flakiness. Greek Phyllo Meat Pie Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right leeks for my pie? When selecting leeks, look for ones that are firm with vibrant green tops and white bulbs, avoiding any that have dark spots or wilting. Fresh leeks have a mild, sweet flavor perfect for enhancing your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie. If they’re unavailable, you can easily substitute them with onions, which offer a robust taste. What’s the best way to store leftover Greek Phyllo Meat Pie? Store your leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to restore that delicious crispiness everyone loves. Can I freeze the Greek Phyllo Meat Pie? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, just place it directly from the freezer into a preheated oven, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it cooks through beautifully. What if my phyllo pastry dries out while assembling? Very! To keep your phyllo pastry from drying out, always cover any unused sheets with a damp tea towel as you work. This crucial step ensures that the layers remain pliable and easy to handle, creating that divine flakiness in your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie! Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Yes, if you’re serving this pie to guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily make adjustments. For a lactose-free option, substitute the milk and yogurt with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt. For vegan options, replacing the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) works wonderfully for binding all the ingredients together. Irresistible Greek Phyllo Meat Pie with Flavorful Spiced Beef A savory Greek Phyllo Meat Pie filled with spiced beef and vegetables, perfect for dinner parties and quick meals. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BeefCuisine: GreekCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Filling2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing the meat and greasing the pan500 grams Ground Beef Try half pork or lamb for a twist200 grams Leeks Adds mild sweetness; onions can substitute130 grams Onion Shallots can be used for a gentler taste1 teaspoon Ground Allspice Use for warm spices; omit for simpler flavor½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Adds warmth; use sparingly2 teaspoons Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika can provide a unique twist⅓ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Leave out for a less sweet flavor1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Replace with cumin for more earthiness1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Minced for freshness; dill or oregano are substitutesFor the Phyllo Layers450 grams Phyllo Pastry Shortcrust pastry can be used as an alternative145 grams Milk Non-dairy milk is a great alternative70 grams Greek Yogurt Sour cream or non-dairy yogurt can substitute80 milliliters Water Can be omitted or replaced with more milk2 medium Eggs Flaxseed meal mixture offers a vegan substitute Equipment non-stick skilletLarge bowl13 x 9-inch pan Method Cooking StepsThaw the phyllo pastry overnight in the refrigerator. Leave at room temperature for about an hour.In a non-stick skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.Stir in chopped leeks and onion, allowing them to soften for about 4-5 minutes. Add spices and mix well, removing from heat once vegetables are tender.Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Whisk together milk, Greek yogurt, water, remaining olive oil, and eggs.Grease the pan lightly with olive oil, layer two sheets of phyllo, and drizzle some of the milk mixture on top. Repeat until half the phyllo is used.Spread the spiced meat mixture evenly over the phyllo base. Layer remaining phyllo sheets on top, drizzling the milk mixture between each layer.Cut the pie into 8 pieces. Pour any remaining milk mixture on top.Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg NotesCover remaining phyllo sheets with a damp towel to prevent drying out. Brown the meat well for enhanced flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
