Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Crispy and savory, Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) is a delightful dish featuring spiced ground beef and leeks wrapped in flaky phyllo pastry. Perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering, a celebratory feast, or a casual weeknight dinner—this recipe stands out with its irresistible flavor and texture. The combination of spices adds warmth to the meat filling, while the phyllo crust provides that satisfying crunch we all love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The blend of spices like cinnamon and allspice gives this pie a unique taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as an appetizer or main course; it fits perfectly in any meal setting.
• Easy to Prepare – With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this impressive dish with ease.
• Crispy Texture – The layered phyllo pastry ensures every bite is delightfully crunchy.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Make it ahead of time and simply reheat before serving for a hassle-free option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish or tray
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Pastry brush
• Knife
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish or tray – Provides the perfect shape for your pie, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Frying pan – Essential for sautéing the filling ingredients like leeks and onions to enhance their flavors.
• Pastry brush – Helps apply olive oil evenly on the phyllo layers for that golden-brown finish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Crispy phyllo meat pie with spiced ground beef and leek filling and extra crispy pastry!

For the Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 500 grams (17.6 ounce) ground beef (or half ground beef and half ground turkey)
• 200 grams (7 ounce) leeks (finely chopped)
• 130 grams (4.6 ounce) onion (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
• ⅓ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (minced)

For the Phyllo Pie

• 450 grams (1 package) phyllo pastry
• 145 grams (⅔ cup) milk
• 70 grams (3 tablespoons) Greek yogurt
• 80 ml water
• 120 grams (12 tablespoons) olive oil (or half olive oil and half vegetable oil or melted butter)
• 2 medium-sized eggs

How to Make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Step 1: Thaw the Phyllo Pastry

Thaw phyllo in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours. This prevents tearing when you handle it.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add finely chopped onions and leeks; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the ground beef until cooked through.
4. Add all spices, parsley, and mix well until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Layer several sheets of phyllo pastry in your baking dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
3. Spread the meat mixture evenly over the layered phyllo.
4. Cover with additional layers of phyllo, brushing each layer with olive oil again.
5. Beat together milk, yogurt, water, eggs, and pour over the top layer.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top. Let cool slightly before slicing into pieces.

Enjoy your homemade Greek Phyllo Meat Pie!

How to Serve Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Serving Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) can elevate your dining experience. This crispy pastry filled with spiced ground beef and leeks is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments.

For a Classic Touch

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A cool yogurt-based dip that complements the meat pie’s flavors perfectly.

For a Heartier Meal

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted until tender, providing a sweet contrast to the savory pie.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs and spices that adds texture and flavor alongside the meat pie.

For a Light Option

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans seasoned with lemon juice for a zesty touch.
• Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A light salad combining cucumbers and yogurt, perfect for balancing the richness of the pie.

How to Perfect Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

To achieve the ideal Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita), follow these expert tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Boldly Season Your Filling: Use generous amounts of spices like allspice and nutmeg to create a rich flavor profile.
• Layering Matters: Apply olive oil between phyllo layers for extra crispiness; this technique adds both texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overfill: Ensure your filling isn’t too packed. This allows the dough to cook evenly without tearing.
• Thaw Properly: Thaw your phyllo dough in the fridge overnight to prevent it from drying out or cracking while you work.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

Pairing side dishes with your Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) enhances its deliciousness. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Lemon Potatoes: Roasted potatoes seasoned with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a bright flavor.
2. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, herbs, and a tangy dressing that complements the pie well.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A hearty salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese for added zest.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): Tender grape leaves filled with rice and herbs provide an authentic Mediterranean feel.
5. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs offers a light yet flavorful side dish option.
6. Roasted Cauliflower: Spiced roasted cauliflower adds nuttiness and crunch that pairs beautifully with the meat pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold Preparation: Many forget to thaw phyllo pastry properly. Always thaw it in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours to avoid tearing.
• Bold Overfilling: Adding too much filling can make the pie difficult to seal. Stick to the recommended amount to ensure a crispy crust.
• Bold Ignoring Oil: Skipping oil between phyllo layers can lead to a dry texture. Brush each layer generously with oil for that perfect crispiness.
• Bold Underseasoning: Not seasoning the meat well enough can result in bland flavors. Use spices as instructed and taste before assembling.
• Bold Skipping Rest Time: Allowing the pie to rest before cutting is crucial. This helps set the filling and prevents it from spilling out when served.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag for best results.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 20 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Bold Microwave: Use medium power for 2-3 minutes, but this may soften the crust.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, covering it with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita).

Can I use other meats in Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita)?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or lamb if desired, adjusting cooking times as needed.

What is the best way to keep phyllo pastry from drying out?

Cover unused phyllo sheets with a damp cloth while working with them. This keeps them moist and pliable.

How do I know when my Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) is done?

The pie is ready when it’s golden brown on top and the filling is bubbly. A thermometer should read at least 160°F (70°C) internally.

Can I make Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it beforehand and bake it later or freeze it uncooked until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Greek Phyllo Meat Pie (Kimadopita) offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. Its versatility allows you to customize fillings based on your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try today!