Authentic Greek Tiropita (Cheese Pie) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of phyllo dough
  • 1 cup of unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups of feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup of ricotta cheese
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Brush a baking dish with some of the melted butter.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the feta cheese, ricotta cheese, eggs, parsley, dill, pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  4. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the buttered dish, and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this step with half of the phyllo sheets, brushing each one with butter as you stack them.
  5. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the stacked phyllo dough.
  6. Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the cheese mixture, brushing each one with melted butter.
  7. Using a sharp knife, score the top layers of phyllo dough to mark out your desired size of pieces.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Allow the Tiropita to cool for a few minutes before cutting along the scored lines.
  10. Serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Tiropita!

Tools for making

  • Baking Dish - A dish used for baking the Tiropita.
  • Pastry Brush - A brush used for brushing melted butter onto the phyllo dough.
  • Large Bowl - A bowl used for mixing the cheese filling.
  • Sharp Knife - A knife used for scoring the top layers of the Tiropita.
  • Oven - An appliance used for baking the Tiropita.

Recipe variations

  • Use filo pastry instead of phyllo dough for a lighter crust.
  • Replace the feta cheese with a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile.
  • Add some sautéed spinach or kale to the cheese mixture for a vegetable twist.
  • Include some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to make a savory meat-filled version.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free phyllo dough or substitute with alternative gluten-free pastry sheets.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of paprika to the cheese mixture for extra depth of flavor.
  • Include some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Make individual tiropita by using muffin tins or shaping the dough into small triangles.
  • For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based butter or oil for brushing the dough.
  • Experiment with different herbs and seasonings such as thyme, oregano, or garlic powder to personalize the flavor.

Recipe overview

Tiropita, also known as Greek cheese pie, is a savory pastry that is a beloved classic in Greek cuisine. This delectable snack is made from crispy, buttery layers of phyllo dough filled with a rich, cheesy filling. The combination of feta and ricotta cheese offers a perfect balance of saltiness and creaminess, while the fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that complements the cheese wonderfully. The recipe might seem daunting at first, particularly if you're new to working with phyllo dough, but with patience and care, you will be rewarded with a delicious, golden-brown pastry that's perfect for any occasion. This Tiropita recipe provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process, ensuring that you end up with a perfectly made, flavorful pastry. The preparation and baking processes take approximately 1 hour, and the recipe serves 8-12 people. Enjoy the process and savor the results of your homemade Greek Tiropita!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen phyllo dough instead of fresh?
    Yes, you can use frozen phyllo dough for this recipe. Make sure to thaw it completely before using and follow the package instructions for handling and storing.
  2. Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?
    While feta cheese is traditional for Tiropita, you can experiment with other crumbly cheeses like goat cheese or even a combination of cheeses. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
  3. Can I make Tiropita ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make Tiropita ahead of time. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. You can reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave before serving.
  4. Can I freeze Tiropita?
    Yes, you can freeze Tiropita. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  5. Can I add other ingredients to the cheese mixture?
    Certainly! You can add ingredients like chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed onions to the cheese mixture to customize the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking dish - A dish to bake the Tiropita in. Make sure it is oven-safe.
  • Pastry brush - Used to brush melted butter onto the phyllo dough.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for scoring and cutting the Tiropita into pieces.
  • Spatula - To help lift and serve the individual pieces of Tiropita.

Origin stories

Tiropita, also known as Greek cheese pie, is a beloved staple in Greece, where it is often enjoyed for breakfast or as an appetizer. The word 'tiropita' itself translates to 'cheese pie' in English, and its humble origins can be traced back to ancient times. The use of feta cheese, a key ingredient in this dish, resonates with the country's shepherd culture where cheese was made from goats and sheep that grazed on the country's mountainous regions. Enjoyed by royalty and commoners alike, this delectable pastry is said to have been a favorite of the philosophers Plato and Socrates, who were known to relish the simple pleasures of life. Today, variations of Tiropita can be found in every corner of Greece, each region adding its own unique twist to the classic recipe. This testament to Greek culinary tradition continues to delight palates around the world, symbolizing the enduring allure of Greek culture and cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.