When it comes to savory pastries, few options can rival the Greek classic: Spanakopita. A spinach and feta-filled delight wrapped in crispy phyllo dough, this beloved dish is a staple at Greek celebrations and gatherings. But why should you stop there? With its rich flavors and versatility, Spanakopita lends itself perfectly to creative variations and innovative twists.
From traditional recipes to modern takes, we’re counting down the top 20 delicious Spanakopita recipes for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a quick snack to satisfy your cravings, this list has something for everyone. So grab your apron, get ready to get creative in the kitchen, and let’s dive into the world of Spanakopita!
Classic Greek Spanakopita with Feta and Phyllo
Spanakopita, a beloved Greek savory pie, is a delightful combination of spinach, feta cheese, and crispy phyllo. This recipe yields a flaky, flavorful pastry that’s perfect for snacks or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 4 equal pieces.
4. Brush each piece with olive oil.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the spinach mixture onto the center of each phyllo piece.
6. Fold the phyllo to form a triangle or rectangle, pressing edges to seal.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Spanakopita Triangles
These crispy, savory triangles are a delicious twist on the classic Greek pastry. Perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, cheddar cheese, and egg. Mix well.
3. Brush one sheet of phyllo dough with olive oil.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the spinach mixture onto the phyllo dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the left and right sides of the phyllo towards the center, then roll the triangle up tightly. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Spanakopita Rolls with Herbs
A flavorful twist on traditional spanakopita, these herby rolls are perfect for a quick snack or as an accompaniment to your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw the phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together parsley, dill, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer one sheet of phyllo dough with a tablespoon of olive oil and a spoonful of the herb mixture.
5. Roll up tightly and repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Spanakopita with Tofu and Spinach
A Greek-inspired classic gets a vegan twist! This spinach-filled pastry is perfect for a satisfying snack or light meal, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package vegan puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, spinach, dill weed, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to desired thickness.
5. Spoon the spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling; press the edges to seal.
7. Place the spanakopita on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Spanakopita Bites for Appetizers
Savory spinach and feta cheese come together in these bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Add the egg and mix until well combined.
4. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Place balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each bite.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanakopita Pie with a Flaky Crust
This classic Greek pie is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, filled with spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic spices. Our recipe yields a crispy, buttery crust and a creamy filling that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and ice-cold water. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. In a separate bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the filling mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Brush with olive oil and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Gluten-Free Spanakopita with Almond Flour
Looking for a gluten-free take on the classic Greek spinach and feta pie? This recipe uses almond flour to create a crispy, flaky crust that’s perfect for serving as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Add melted butter, egg, spinach, and feta cheese to the bowl; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Transfer the dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanakopita Stuffed Chicken Breast
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional Greek spanakopita (spinach and feta cheese pie) with juicy chicken breast, creating a unique and delicious twist on classic chicken dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spanakopita mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spanakopita Quiche with a Buttery Crust
Elevate your brunch game with this creamy, savory quiche featuring the classic Spanakopita flavors of spinach, feta, and herbs. This buttery crust adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Let cool.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the cooked spinach mixture, feta cheese, and butter in the pie crust.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanakopita Puff Pastry Twists
Add a Greek twist to your snack time with these Spanakopita-inspired puff pastry twists, packed with spinach and feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into long, thin strips (about 1/4 inch wide).
3. In a small bowl, mix together spinach and feta cheese.
4. Place a spoonful of the spinach-feta mixture at one end of each pastry strip. Fold the other end over the filling to form a twist.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for glazing. If using olive oil, brush a light layer on the twists as well.
6. Place the twists on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanakopita and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Combine the creamy richness of ricotta-stuffed shells with the savory flavors of spanakopita, a traditional Greek spinach pie. This innovative fusion dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the spanakopita filling:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the ricotta stuffed shells:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the spanakopita filling by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and egg. Mix well.
5. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
6. Top shells with the spanakopita filling and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spanakopita Dip with Warm Pita Bread
A classic Greek appetizer gets a delicious dip treatment! This creamy, spinach-packed Spanakopita Dip is served warm and cozy with crudités or pita bread for the perfect snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Warm pita bread (see instructions below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, sour cream, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through and lightly golden brown on top.
5. Meanwhile, warm pita bread by wrapping it in foil and heating in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve the warm Spanakopita Dip with crudités or slices of warm pita bread for a delicious Greek-inspired snack! Enjoy!
Spanakopita Muffins for a Quick Snack
These Spanakopita Muffins are a twist on the traditional Greek spinach pie, but in muffin form. They’re perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, spinach, feta cheese, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, yogurt, egg, salt, and lemon juice.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanakopita Strudel with a Crispy Finish
This strudel combines the savory flavors of spanakopita with a crispy, golden finish. Perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 cups chopped spinach
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dill.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a baking dish, brushing each sheet with vegetable oil.
5. Spoon the spinach mixture over the phyllo layers, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges of the phyllo up over the filling to create a seal.
7. Brush the top of the strudel with beaten egg for a crispy finish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanakopita Phyllo Cups for Parties
Impress your guests with these crispy, savory, and deliciously flavorful Spanakopita Phyllo Cups. Perfect for parties, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and always a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into squares approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
5. Place a spoonful of the spinach mixture onto each square, leaving a 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) border around edges.
6. Fold phyllo squares in half to form triangles, pressing gently to seal edges.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanakopita and Lamb Meatballs
This recipe combines the classic spinach and feta pie (spanakopita) with juicy lamb meatballs, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
For Spanakopita:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For Lamb Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
3. Roll out pie crust and place mixture in the center. Fold pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
4. Brush top with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. In a separate bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Form into meatballs and place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Spanakopita: 35-40 minutes; Lamb Meatballs: 15-20 minutes
Spanakopita-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creative twist on traditional spanakopita. Earthy portobello mushrooms are filled with a flavorful blend of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
- 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
- Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanakopita Breakfast Casserole
Elevate your morning routine with a twist on traditional breakfast casserole, infused with the flavors of Greece. This Spanakopita Breakfast Casserole is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weekday breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 6 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, feta cheese, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
3. Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Pour over the spinach mixture; stir until combined.
4. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and add to the egg mixture. Toss until evenly coated.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Add the casserole mixture and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spanakopita Wontons with a Spicy Dip
This recipe combines the flavors of traditional Greek spanakopita with the convenience of wontons and a spicy kick. Perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
For the Wontons:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 cup cooked spinach
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Dip:
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked spinach, feta cheese, scallions, and beaten egg.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place a small spoonful of the spinach mixture in the center.
4. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point, and press the edges together to seal.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Cook the wontons in batches until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
8. Serve with Spicy Dip (mix all ingredients together in a bowl).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Spanakopita Lasagna with Layers of Flavor
This unique fusion recipe combines the classic Greek spinach pie, Spanakopita, with the Italian favorite, lasagna. The result is a rich and satisfying dish that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of lasagna noodles
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cups of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add chopped spinach, crumbled feta, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and beaten egg.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked noodles, spinach mixture, and ricotta-egg mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering Spanakopita recipes for every occasion! From classic Greek dishes to vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Try making triangles with spinach and cheese, or easy rolls with herbs. For a twist, make mini bites for appetizers or a pie with a flaky crust. You can even use Spanakopita as a filling in stuffed chicken breast or quiche. These innovative recipes will elevate your cooking game and satisfy your cravings. Explore the possibilities of this beloved Greek dish and find new ways to delight your family and friends!
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