Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie Recipe: A Culinary Delight
When it comes to cooking that evokes warmth and comfort, Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie stands tall. Nestled within its flaky, golden layers is a savory medley of ground lamb or beef, aromatic spices, and a hint of fresh herbs. Each bite transports you to a bustling kitchen filled with laughter, nostalgia, and mouthwatering aromas. This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for friends, making it a versatile recipe worth adding to your culinary repertoire. It’s also a great canvas for personal twists, whether you opt for rich lamb or hearty beef.
Have You Ever Craved the Cozy Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals?
Picture this: a chilly evening where the aroma of spices wafts through your home, drawing everyone to the kitchen. Your loved ones gather around the table, their faces lighting up at the sight of a golden-brown Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie, freshly baked and enveloped in promises of indulgent flavors. Who can resist that sound of flaky pastry giving way to rich, savory filling? This recipe beckons you to relive those cherished moments, making it the perfect meal for anyone longing for homemade goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons to fall head over heels for this Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie. Firstly, its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to weeknight dinner. Despite its sophistication, it requires minimal effort, making it ideal for even the most novice cooks.
The layers of phyllo pastry envelop a delightful mix of spices and meat, creating a dish that’s not just appealing to the palate but also a feast for the eyes. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or cozy get-togethers. Plus, there’s something undeniably fun about gathering your loved ones to share in the deliciousness.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground lamb or beef: The star of the dish, providing rich flavors.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: For a hint of sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: To add depth to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infusing a herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Offering warm undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To enhance the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of heat.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Helping bind the mixture together.
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightening the flavors.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional): For a creamy, tangy twist.
- 10 sheets phyllo pastry: The foundation of flaky goodness.
- 1/2 cup melted butter (for brushing): Essential for a rich, golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing.
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional): The finishing touch for visual allure.
Each ingredient adds a layer of texture and flavor, ensuring that no bite is ever the same!
Timing
The beauty of the Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie lies in its balance of speed and indulgence. With a prep time that clocks in at around 20 minutes and a baking time of 30-40 minutes, this dish can be on the table in under an hour.
It’s the perfect mix of fast and indulgent—the flaky crust and savory filling create a luxurious experience without the need for hours in the kitchen. For an extra touch of decadence, you can even let it cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before slicing to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, filling your kitchen with enticing aromas.
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Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. The sizzle of the meat adds to the rich atmosphere.
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Add oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, mixing well, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
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Remove from heat. In a bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with beaten eggs, parsley, and feta cheese (if using). Mix until well incorporated.
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Take one sheet of phyllo pastry and place it on a clean surface, brushing it lightly with melted butter.
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Place a second sheet on top and brush with butter again. Repeat this process for a total of 5 layers, each one adding to the crispiness of the final pie.
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Spoon the meat filling onto the center of the layered phyllo, shaping it into a rectangle while leaving space on the edges.
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Fold the edges of the phyllo over the filling, then carefully roll the pastry from one end to the other to form a log.
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Place the pie seam-side down on a baking sheet.
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Brush the top with remaining butter and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired for that extra flair.
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Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and tantalizingly crispy.
Each step is an opportunity to savor the aroma wafting from your kitchen while anticipating the indulgence to come!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie comes in around 400-500 calories, depending on your choice of meat and any additional ingredients. While it’s certainly a soul-satisfying dish, it’s worth noting that moderation is key should you choose to indulge. This dish can also fit well into a balanced diet when enjoying it alongside a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for ways to make this Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie a bit healthier, consider the following swaps:
- Lean meat: Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of lamb or beef to reduce fat content.
- Dairy-free: Skip the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Whole grain phyllo: Look for whole grain phyllo pastry for added nutrients.
- Vegetable-filled: Add finely diced vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the nutritional profile while enhancing flavors.
These healthier alternatives can maintain the essence of the dish while making it a tad lighter!
Serving Suggestions
This Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie offers delightful versatility in serving. Pair it with a refreshing salad drizzled with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pie.
For an indulgent dessert touch, finish your meal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing its creaminess to balance the savory flavors. It’s also worth considering serving it during holidays or special gatherings, as the presentation is bound to impress.
Common Mistakes
While making your Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie, keep these common pitfalls in mind:
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Overbaking: Make sure to monitor the pie as it nears the end of the baking time to avoid a burnt crust.
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Texture issues: Skipping the butter-brushing on each sheet could leave the phyllo dry and less flaky.
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Messy filling: Ensure the filling isn’t too wet; excess moisture can make the pastry soggy.
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Not sealing properly: Fold edges securely to prevent filling leakage during baking.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can achieve a flawlessly baked pie that dazzles in both flavor and presentation!
Storing Tips
Should you have leftovers—or if you’re making this dish in advance—storing it properly is essential.
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Freezing portions: Once baked and cooled, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
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Reheating instructions: To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Additionally, you can brush it with a touch of melted butter before reheating for enhanced crispiness.
Tempt to Bake It ASAP
In the realm of comfort food, Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie reigns supreme. Its flaky, buttery crust welcomes a savory filling that truly warms the soul. Relive the joy of communal meals, rich aromas, and indulgent flavors by whipping this pie up at home—you won’t regret it!
Make it a new tradition in your kitchen; your family and friends will thank you. So go ahead—get those ingredients out, and let the baking adventure commence!
FAQs
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Can I use store-bought phyllo pastry?
Yes! Store-bought phyllo is a convenient option and yields excellent results. -
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the filling a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake. -
Is it possible to make this pie vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the meat with a blend of mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite vegetables. -
How can I make it spicier?
Incorporate chili flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture for an extra kick. -
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, wrap them securely and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Indulge in this exquisite Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Print
Lamb or Beef Phyllo Pie
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A flaky, golden phyllo pastry filled with savory ground lamb or beef, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground lamb or beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 10 sheets phyllo pastry
- 1/2 cup melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Add oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, mixing well, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat. In a bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with beaten eggs, parsley, and feta cheese if using, and mix well.
- Take one sheet of phyllo pastry, place it on a clean surface, and brush lightly with melted butter. Repeat this for a total of 5 layers.
- Spoon the meat filling onto the center of the layered phyllo, shaping into a rectangle, leaving space on the edges.
- Fold the edges over the filling, then roll the pastry from one end to the other to form a log.
- Place the pie seam-side down on a baking sheet, brush the top with remaining butter, and sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
Consider using lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option. You can also add finely diced vegetables for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
