🇬🇷 Greece · Food
Kreatopita: Traditional Greek Meat Pie
By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇬🇷 GRKreatopita is a hearty and flavorful Greek meat pie, a true comfort food wrapped in layers of golden, flaky phyllo pastry. Filled with seasoned minced meat, often combined with aromatic spices and savory cheeses, this substantial dish is perfect for family gatherings or a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the meat filling: In a large skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 500g (1.1 lbs) minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork) and brown thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- 2
Sauté aromatics and spices: Add 1 large finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground clove. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3
Deglaze and simmer: Stir in 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) red wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add 1 bay leaf, 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until most liquid has evaporated. Remove bay leaf and let cool slightly.
- 4
Prepare the cheese mixture: While the meat cools, in a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, 1/2 cup (100g) crumbled feta cheese, and 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese. Once the meat filling is cooled, stir it into the cheese mixture.
- 5
Assemble the pie: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Melt 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter. Lay one sheet of phyllo in the dish, brush lightly with melted butter. Repeat with 6-8 more phyllo sheets, buttering each. Spread the meat filling evenly over the phyllo.
- 6
Finish the pie: Top the filling with another 6-8 buttered phyllo sheets, brushing each one as you go. Score the top layers of phyllo into serving squares, but don't cut all the way through the filling. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of meat is best for Kreatopita?+
Minced beef is common, but a mixture of beef and pork, or even lamb, can be used for a richer flavor. Ensure the meat is lean enough to avoid excessive greasiness in the finished pie.
How do I prevent the phyllo from drying out while assembling?+
Phyllo pastry dries out very quickly. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap while you are assembling the pie to maintain their pliability and prevent cracking.
Can I prepare Kreatopita ahead of time?+
Yes, you can assemble the pie a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. It also reheats well.
What are common variations for Kreatopita?+
Regional variations exist; some recipes include a small amount of rice in the filling for added body, while others might incorporate different spice blends or additional herbs like parsley for fresh notes.
🇬🇷 GRMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Kreatopita: Traditional Greek Meat Pie's core ingredients.
