Greek Phyllo Meat Pie

This delicious Greek Phyllo Meat Pie, or “Börek,” features layers of crispy phyllo dough stuffed with savory ground meat, herbs, and spices. It’s perfect for a cozy meal or snack!

The flaky crust is truly irresistible! I love serving it with some yogurt on the side for a extra creamy bite. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any gathering! 😊

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Phyllo Dough: This is essential for that flaky texture. If you can’t find phyllo, try puff pastry, but be aware that it may alter the final texture and flavor.

Ground Beef or Lamb: I usually prefer ground lamb for its flavor, but ground turkey or chicken works too if you want a leaner option! You can really customize this to your taste or dietary needs.

Feta Cheese: This adds a nice tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using plant-based cheese or simply leave it out. You can also use ricotta for a creamier filling!

Spices: Dried oregano is key here, but feel free to swap in fresh herbs if you have them! A touch of nutmeg can also enhance the flavor, so consider adding that if you like.

How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Phyllo?

Achieving that crispy phyllo crust is all about layering and moisture control. Here are some tips:

• Work with one phyllo sheet at a time and keep the others covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
• Brush each sheet generously with olive oil or melted butter. Don’t skimp on this step; the fat helps create that beautiful crispness.
• Scoring the top layer before baking allows steam to escape, keeping it crispy. Just be gentle to avoid cutting all the way through.
• Bake until it’s golden brown—this usually takes around 45-55 minutes. The wait is worth it for that perfect crunch!

How to Make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Bougatsa or Burek)

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Phyllo Layers:

• 1 package phyllo dough (about 16 oz), thawed
• 1/2 cup olive oil or melted butter (for brushing phyllo)

For the Egg Wash:

• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk (optional, for mixing with eggs)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious pie takes about 20 minutes to prep and around 45 to 55 minutes to bake. You’ll enjoy a warm, flaky treat in about an hour and 15 minutes—perfect for dessert or dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned, which will take approximately 8-10 minutes. Stir in the oregano, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese if desired.

2. Prepare the Phyllo:

While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 or 10-inch round or square baking pan. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the pan and brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter. Repeat layering and brushing the phyllo sheets until you have about half of them layered in the pan.

3. Assemble the Pie:

Spread the meat filling evenly over the layered phyllo. Then, layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the meat filling, brushing each with olive oil or butter as you go. For a beautiful finish, lightly beat the eggs with milk (if using) and brush the top layer generously.

4. Score and Bake:

Using a sharp knife, score the top layers of phyllo into squares or diamond shapes to make cutting easier after baking. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie warm, and consider serving it with a side of creamy Greek yogurt or a fresh salad for added flavor and texture! Enjoy!

Can I Use Store-Bought Phyllo Dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought phyllo is a great time-saver. Just make sure it’s properly thawed in the refrigerator before use to avoid tearing it while handling.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore some crispiness.

Can I Freeze the Phyllo Meat Pie?

Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, cover it tightly and it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. For baked pies, wrap it well and reheat directly from the freezer, adding some extra time to the oven while baking.

What Can I Serve with Greek Phyllo Meat Pie?

This dish pairs well with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it on its own as a tasty snack or appetizer!