Phyllo Meat Pie

A crispy, golden phyllo pastry filled with a savory spiced ground beef mixture, this delicious Middle Eastern dish is baked to perfection for a flaky and flavorful experience. Often known as “goulash” in Egyptian cuisine, this meat pie is rich, comforting, and perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flaky texture – The buttery layers of phyllo dough create a crisp and golden crust.
• Rich and savory filling – The spiced ground beef mixture is infused with warm Middle Eastern flavors.
• Easy to prepare – Simple steps make this an impressive yet achievable dish.
• Perfect for any occasion – Serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
• Make-ahead friendly – Can be assembled in advance and baked when needed.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pack phyllo dough (thawed)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup beef broth

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Season the beef with cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and remove from heat.
5. Layer the phyllo dough: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat with half the phyllo sheets, brushing each layer with butter.
6. Add the beef mixture: Evenly spread the cooked beef mixture over the phyllo layers.
7. Top with more phyllo: Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each layer with butter.
8. Prepare the custard: In a bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and beef broth. Pour evenly over the pie.
9. Score the top into squares to make cutting easier after baking.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the phyllo is golden and crispy.
11. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

• Cheesy version – Add a layer of feta or shredded mozzarella between the beef and phyllo layers.
• Spicy twist – Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Different meat options – Substitute ground lamb or turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian alternative – Replace the beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a meat-free version.
• Nutty addition – Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the beef filling for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the phyllo soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pie and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Why do I need to score the top before baking?

Scoring helps the pie bake evenly and makes it easier to cut without breaking the flaky phyllo.

Can I use homemade phyllo dough?

Yes, but store-bought phyllo saves time and ensures consistent results.

What should I serve with this meat pie?

It pairs well with a fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or pickled vegetables.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the egg and use just the milk and broth mixture for a similar effect.

Why is my phyllo dough cracking?

Phyllo dries out quickly. Keep it covered with a damp towel while assembling the pie.

Can I use butter instead of olive oil for frying the beef?

Yes, but olive oil enhances the Mediterranean flavors.

How do I prevent the bottom layer from getting soggy?

Make sure the beef mixture is not too wet and bake until the phyllo is golden and crisp.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, finely diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work well in this dish.

Is this dish similar to Greek pastitsio or börek?

Yes, it shares similarities with both but has distinct Middle Eastern seasoning.

Conclusion

Phyllo meat pie (goulash) is a deliciously crispy and savory dish that brings together the warmth of Middle Eastern spices and the delicate flakiness of phyllo pastry. Whether served as a main dish or an appetizer, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting homemade meal, this golden, buttery delight is one you’ll want to make again and again.