Best Ever Spanakopita Spinach Feta Pie : A Golden, Flaky Greek Classic You’ll Love

If you’re craving a savory, comforting Mediterranean dish that’s both timeless and irresistible, this Best Ever Spanakopita Spinach Feta Pie will become your new favorite. Bursting with the flavors of fresh spinach, creamy feta, aromatic herbs, and layers of crisp, buttery phyllo, this Greek Spinach Pie embodies everything beautiful about Greek cooking. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply want a stunning dish to enjoy throughout the week, this authentic Spanakopita recipe delivers perfect results every time.

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves spinach and cheese, Mediterranean dishes packed with flavor, and meals that feel both rustic and elegant. With its crunchy top, tender spinach filling, and rich cheese blend, it’s one of the most beloved Greek dishes—and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

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What Makes This Spanakopita Recipe Truly Authentic

Authentic Greek Spanakopita comes from centuries of culinary tradition, focusing on simple ingredients, careful layering, and fresh herbs that bring out the flavor of the spinach. This recipe follows classic preparation techniques: sautéing the greens lightly, adding the right feta-to-spinach ratio, and using good-quality phyllo dough brushed generously with olive oil.

The heart of Greek cooking lies in balance, and this pie highlights that beautifully: crisp pastry, creamy filling, earthy greens, and salty cheese. Using fresh dill and green onions enhances the Mediterranean aroma, while olive oil enriches every layer.

Ingredients for Greek Spinach Pie (Spinach and Cheese Filling Essentials)

Here are the exact ingredients you’ll need to prepare the best homemade Spanakopita:

For the Filling:

• 2 pounds (900 g) fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 5–6 green onions, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh dill, chopped
• ½ cup parsley, chopped
• 10 oz (280 g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

For the Phyllo Layers:

• 1 package (16 oz / 450 g) phyllo dough, thawed
• ½–¾ cup olive oil for brushing
• Optional: sesame seeds for topping

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Checklist

To prepare this Greek Spinach Pie, gather:

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry brush
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Clean towel for covering phyllo

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How to Prepare the Spinach Filling (Traditional Greek Method)

To achieve the perfect filling consistency, sauté the onion in olive oil until soft. Add the garlic, green onions, and chopped spinach in batches, allowing it to wilt and release water. Cook until moisture evaporates.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool completely. Once cool, add dill, parsley, feta, ricotta or cottage cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.

This filling is the heart of the pie—creamy, herbaceous, and full of Mediterranean flavor.

How to Work With Phyllo Dough for Perfect Mediterranean Dishes

Working with phyllo requires patience and care, but the result is worth it. Here’s how to keep it soft and manageable:

• Always thaw phyllo in the refrigerator overnight.
• Keep unused sheets covered with a clean, damp towel.
• Work quickly but carefully.
• Brush each sheet generously with olive oil to ensure crisp, flaky layers.

Phyllo may seem fragile, but slight tears won’t affect the final result.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Ever Spanakopita Spinach Feta Pie

1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Brush your baking dish with olive oil.

2. Layer the Bottom Phyllo Sheets
Place 7–8 sheets of phyllo dough at the bottom, brushing each layer with olive oil.

3. Add the Spinach Filling
Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the layered phyllo.

4. Finish With Top Layers
Add another 8–10 layers of phyllo, brushing each one with olive oil. Tuck the edges inside the pan for a neat finish.

5. Score the Top
Use a knife to lightly pre-cut the top layers into squares or diamonds. This helps the pie bake evenly.

6. Bake
Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 45–55 minutes or until the top is golden and crisp.

7. Rest Before Serving
Let the Spanakopita rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting to help the layers set.

Expert Tips for Making Perfect Spanakopita Every Time

• Dry the spinach well to avoid a soggy pie.
• Use real Greek feta for authentic flavor.
• Cook the greens thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
• Brush every phyllo layer generously for flaky results.
• Let it cool before slicing to maintain clean layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Greek Spinach Pie

• Using too much moisture in the filling
• Allowing phyllo to dry out
• Overloading with cheese (which can cause sogginess)
• Skipping the scoring before baking
• Not seasoning the filling properly

Avoiding these mistakes ensures your spinach pie bakes beautifully every time.

Serving Suggestions for Greek Cooking & Mediterranean Dishes

This Spanakopita can be served warm, room temperature, or even cold. Pair it with:

• Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olives
• Roasted vegetables
• Lentil soup
• Fresh bread with olive oil
• A side of yogurt or tzatziki

It also makes an amazing lunch or light dinner alongside Mediterranean side dishes.

Variations: Modern Twists on the Classic Spinach and Cheese Pie

Try one of these easy variations:

• Spinach & Herb Pie – Add mint or basil.
• Triple Cheese Spanakopita – Add kefalotyri or mozzarella.
• Mini Spanakopita Triangles – Great for parties.
• Vegan Option – Use dairy-free feta and olive oil instead of eggs.

These versions bring new life to the classic Greek dish.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Spanakopita

To Store:
Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

To Freeze:
Freeze before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze up to 3 months.

To Reheat:
Bake in a 325°F (165°C) oven until warm and crisp.

Pairing Ideas (Non-Alcoholic) for Spinach Pie Meals

Try serving with:

• Lemon mint water
• Iced herbal tea
• Sparkling water with citrus
• Fresh cucumber juice

These drinks complement the rich, savory flavors.

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Spanakopita Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes—thaw and squeeze out all water completely.

Can I use a different cheese?
Feta is traditional, but ricotta or cottage cheese adds creaminess.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes—assemble and refrigerate for 24 hours before baking.

Why did my phyllo crack?
It may have dried out—keep it covered with a damp towel.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Best Ever Spanakopita Spinach Feta Pie brings together everything we love about Greek dishes: freshness, simplicity, and unforgettable flavor. With crisp phyllo, creamy spinach filling, and authentic Mediterranean ingredients, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

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