Published: · Modified: by Amira · This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.
A crunchy tasty side dish for your parties and gatherings with countless variations.
Total time 40 minutes minutes
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A staple in all of our gatherings, an easy side dish that we all enjoy even the little ones. A classic recipe the never gets old or boring thanks to tons and tons of variations.
Egyptian goulash is sure different than the goulash you know, super flaky, buttery sheets of crunchy phyllo sandwiching a layer of flavored ground beef. This is phyllo dough recipes obsession at its best.
First Published: December 2015
phyllo dough recipes
This is the most famous phyllo dough recipe you can ever find in the Middle East, it is always there as a side dish in almost each and every occasion.
You know well by now that I grew up in the phyllo zone of this world and this is why I so much love creating recipes with phyllo dough. Phyllo appetizers and desserts are on my top list of addicting food.
Working with phyllo seems to be second to nature for me but I know some of you finding it daunting and I am telling you don't. It is really easy and I am going to share some tips and tricks with you hoping that I will convince you.
My kids love it so much, I would be very satisfied if they took a couple of those squares along with some green salad and call it a complete meal.
Sometimes I add veggies along with the ground beef, celery, peas, small diced beans, spinach ...etc, just do not spread the news and they will eat these delicious squares and ask for more.
Egyptian Goulash: Step by step
- In a non stick pan, saute onions until translucent and fragrant.
- Add ground meat, breaking it apart. Add all the spices and mix all well together. Cook until done and set aisde.
- In an oven dish or a baking sheet lay half of the phyllo sheets brushing every 2 -3 sheets with an oil/ghee mixture.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly to cover the sheets edge to edge.
- Now lay the remaining half of the sheets brushing in between sheets as we have done for the first part and brush the outer layer as well.
- Cut the sheets into squares, depending on the size of the phyllo you have. In a cup or a measuring up break an egg , add one cup of milk then whisk together. Season with salt and pepper then pour the milk mixture over the phyllo. Tilt the pan in all directions to spread evenly.
- Bake in the oven until golden brown. Let it cool down a bit then serve.
Tips and tricks for amazing phyllo dough recipe everytime
- Like you, I always forget to take my phyllo out of the freezer the night before. So I simply take it out and thaw on the kitchen counter. Frankly, this is how I saw my mom thaw her phyllo for my entire 40-something years. So do not get afraid of counter thawing.
- Cover with a damp clean kitchen towel?. Yes and No. First do not soak the towel, just lightly dampen it. Second, if you place the towel right above your phyllo, the sheets will get wet and stick to each other. So I usually cover with plastic then the damp towel.
- Your phyllo sheets tear? So what?! really guys this does not matter at all and no one will even notice it. What I would like to take care of is only the last sheet, the top one. This is the one I would like for it to be one piece and not torn.. that's it.
- If the edges got dry, do not fret. Take it from me, it does not matter at all unless you are making phyllo rolls or cigars. Just take the sheets place them on your pan and brush with the fat mixture you have. That's why I usually like to brush the edges nicely and generously more than I do in the center.
- There is not a single month that passes by with me making this recipe or that with phyllo. So I came up with this strategy for emergencies, I keep one phyllo frozen and another one in the fridge. Unopened thawed phyllo can stay in the fridge for up to a month. Phyllo dough recipes are always great for emergency dinners at my home.
Phyllo dough pie variations
There are countless things you can stuff in the between these phyllo sheets. The most desirable one among my Egyptian community is one that is stuffed with Basterma and Parmesan or Romano cheese. I also like adding bell pepper and black olives.
Phyllo dough recipes on the blog
- Phyllo shrimp pizza.
- Phyllo pumpkin pie.
- Baklava.
- Baklava Rolls.
- Phyllo pecan pie cups.
- Apple pie in phyllo crust.
Finally, I just could not bring myself to delete this photo or story from the post back in 2015, when I was updating it. It is a personal thing that I loved sharing with you all back then and still love to share. If you do not like to read feel free and skip to the recipe part.
Almost 2 weeks ago, we took the kids to a concert organized by the Islamic Relief USA to help children around the world. My kids went there to see one of their favorite singers Raef. Raef is a singer who sings what i call "clean music" , I can totally leave my kids watching his videos without any worries of what they will see or hear. They were very thrilled to see him, specially my 5 year old.
He kept on asking about him for the whole concert as his part came last, and just when he was about to fall asleep, Raef showed up and you can never imagine the smile on his little face and the excitement that he felt.
There was this special song that my kid loved as we sing it almost everyday going to school in the morning, dream, so to my surprise, my little one found the courage to go up on the stage and ask him for that specific song. Unfortunately, the song was not on his schedule and he was really running late, so Raef was unable to sing it for him on stage, but he promised him to sing it after the concert ... and frankly I thought this will never happen and he will get caught up with all his fans.
But, he really did leave his fans, got his guitar and fulfilled this 5 years old fan's wish. He actually sang the song specially for my boy . My kid was so embarrassed that he could not sing along not even a single word, but really, imagine this little guy standing next to his beloved singer and with all these camera flashes, people looking at him and cheering for them both, poor thing his little heart must have raced as if he was running a marathon hahaha.
A BIG thank you to Raef, who did not turn his back to his little fan, now we wake up and sleep on his songs :). We really did enjoy the concert with all its parts specially Omar Regan who cracked us up with his hilarious jokes.
It was a fun night for the whole family with a noble cause. The only problem I have right now is that my home is, suddenly, filled with singers and they all want to take guitar lessons :/.
Phyllo Meat Pie (Egyptian Goulash)
A crunchy tasty side dish for your parties and gatherings with countless variations.
4.75 from 78 votes
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Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Middle East
Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Calories: 131kcal
Author: Amira
Ingredients
For the ground beef filling: Note1
- 1 table spoon olive oil.
- 1 small onion.
- 1.5 pound lean ground beef.
- 1 teaspoon allspice.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper or to taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste. * used pink
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger.
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste.
For the phyllo:
- A packet (16oz) phyllo dough thawed.
- ½ cup light tasting olive oil Note2.
- ¼ cup ghee or butter melted.
- 1 cup milk.
- 1 large egg.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions
Make the ground beef mixture:
In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil then sauté onion for 2-3 minutes until tender.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart then add all the other ingredients. Cook until browned with no pink spots, set aside.
Assemble the dish and bake:
Heat your oven to 400F.
Melt ghee in a small sauce pan or in the microwave. Mix in olive oil.
Brush- or spray- an oven safe dish with the oil, take 2-3 sheets of phyllo dough and lay them flat on your dish, then brush with oil mixture.
Continue layering the phyllo sheets 2-3 sheets at a time and brushing them until you are done with half the package.
Add the minced meat mixture and spread evenly.
Continue layering and brushing the remaining phyllo sheets until you are done with the package. Cut into squares or diamond shape.
In a measuring cup, beat the egg and add the milk, sprinkle some salt and pepper, then carefully pour into the dish, tilt the dish in all directions so the milk mixture will spread evenly.
Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool slightly, then serve warm.
Notes
Note1: If you want you can cook any desired vegetables with the meat for added benefits such as, celery, peas, corn, small cur green beans.... etc.
Note2: I’m used to using 1 cup of fat ( usually butter) when making this recipe. For some health issues lately I’ve starting using light tasting olive oil with a little ghee for the flavor. Here you’ll notice I’ve used ¾ cup of fat but I’ve a feeling that I can make this with ⅓ cup of oil and 2 tablespoons ghee. I will try this next time and let you know.
Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.
Nutrition
Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 11.1g | Protein: 1.8g | Fat: 8.7g | Saturated Fat: 2.8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4.8g | Cholesterol: 15.4mg | Sodium: 128.9mg | Potassium: 57.5mg | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 0.9g | Vitamin A: 1.1IU | Vitamin C: 0.9mg | Calcium: 1.7mg | Iron: 4.3mg
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About Amira
I’m overjoyed that you have stopped by! My hope is to introduce you to new flavors, creative ways and fresh takes on favorites. To help you create food with style that will bring everyone around your kitchen table. From weeknight dinners for crazy busy days to desserts with the “wow” factor, and classic comforts from the Mediterranean. One thing in common, they are all recipes that have been tried and tested by family and friends.
Reader Interactions
Comments
Nina Khaled
I love all your recipes! Thank you for sharing your gift so generously! May God bless you and your family.
Reply
Steven
Wonderful recipe. Easy and delicious.Reply
Tacha
Wonderful recipe my family were happy they love it specially my husband he wants me to make it again I didn’t do anything different I followed the recipe exact came out lovely thank you for sharing your tasteful recipe with usReply
Erin Kas
As an American woman who is married to an Egyptian man, I LOVE Amira’s Pantry!! He has devoured every. Single. Recipe. I have cooked from this page. So of course, when he requested goulash for iftar today, this is where I came first Thank you so much.
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Krista
I made it as per your recipe and it was delicious! We served it as part if a light lunch with carrot sticks and watermelon. Everyone enjoyed it and asked for more!Reply
Ravenna
I added golden raisins to the recipe for a touch of sweetness. Hubby and I both loved it.
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Faiza
I used to make this along time ago for my kids and when entertaining.
Thanks for reminding me of home Amira. I tried it again as per your recipe and it was so delicious!!Reply
Anne22
Amira, I am assuming I can prep entire recipe, freeze and pop in oven to bake frozen at a later date? Need to make for a mid week get together so hoping I can just pop in oven without compromising the dish.
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Barrie
I had almost a full pkg of phyllo dough leftover from Christmas dinner, so I went looking for a recipe to use it up - this will do nicely! I’ve always loved Mediterranean cuisine, so I opted to use ground lamb for the meat filling. After reading all of the notes and reviews, I also added some vegetables, including spinach that I steamed and squeezed fairly dry.As a caregiver for my elderly in-laws (87 yrs & 93 yrs), I loved how easily and quickly this recipe came together! I’m excited to try making variations with other proteins, vegetables, and potatoes.
I forgot to score the portions prior to baking, but it all working out fine. This dish is a family favorite now!
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Kieren
Can this be made without egg or using egg whites? I'm allergic to egg yolk
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Amira
I think you can use egg whites, also I saw people using yogure just a couple of table spoons with the milk but I haven't tested it myself.
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Ellen
I was confused about the milk & egg step. Do you pour it over the top, or on the sides to have it go under the stack to coat the bottom layers?
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Amira
Ellen, sorry that this steps confuses you. You actually pour the milk mixture on top all over the phyllo, it will seep through the cut up phyllo sheets to moisten the whole thing. You can tilt it from side to side it to help it go through. I hope it is clear now.
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Jennifer
So delicious and surprisingly rich! The flavour is amazing and the instructions were so easy to follow. My family and neighbours loved it. Will definitely make it again!Reply
Louise Kirkwood
Hi Amira,when working with the phyllo dough I have used 1/2 vegetable broth and 1/2 margerine as a vegan option,it’s healthy and yummy and tasting
Reply
SJ
Hello,
Did you use a half sheet baking tray for this?
Thank you!Reply
Amira
Hello SJ, it depends on the size of the phyllo you get. I get some bigger sheets from the Middle Eastern store and in this case I use the half sheet baking tray.
Reply
SJ
Was so nervous making these as I have never worked with phyllo before....but it turned out amazing. Got rave compliments from my family! Thanks again.Reply
Laurie
I made it, but with bacon and breakfast sausage. It was delicious! Ty.Reply
Amira
Oh what a nice twist, thanks Laurie for sharing your experience.
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Dani
Can it be made without the milk? What do you advise subbing it for?
Reply
Amira
Dani, one of my friends used broth before but I haven't made this myself.
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Sabine
Super Yum! I added carrots and mushrooms, I’m in love! I never worked with phyllo before. I think I want to try Baklava next!
Reply
Amira
This is awesome Sabine, I am glad you loved the recipe. And yes please for sure go ahead and try baklava it is a 100 times better than what we get in stores here.
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Raani
So yummy and easy to make, definitely will keep this recipe. 🙂Reply
Marilyn
Thank you for sharing this recipe ❤️Reply
Nicole Krause
What size oven safe dish? pie plate? 9 x 13? baking sheet?
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Rasha Elkhamisy
Delicious!Reply
Amira
Glad you liked it.
Reply
Khadija
What's the Arabic name for allspice?
Reply
Amira
Salam Khadija, it goes under the name " بهار حلو " or sometimes " كبابة صيني" . I hope this helps. Let me know if you still cannot find it maybe it goes by another name.
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Jenn
Delish! How would you reheat leftovers?
Reply
Amira
Happy you liked it Jenn. I reheat leftovers in the oven to freshen them up. Some people microwave leftovers but in my experience this makes them lose their crunch unless this is something you want of course.
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Jennifer
Excellent!Reply
Gayle
In 60 seconds I learned more about using filo dough than I had my entire 68 years.... Thank you so much. I'm looking forward to trying your wonderful recipes.
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Amira
Thank you so much Gayle for your sweet comment, I hope you'll like recipes here.
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Carrie
Tried this today for a late lunch with my mom. It was wonderful! This was out of my comfort zone but I’m so glad I tried it! Will definitely be making this again. Thanks so much for the great recipe!
Reply
Amira
Thanks Carrie for the feedback, so happy you and your mom liked it.
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Tara
This is was a phenomenal meal with salad! Thank you!Reply
Amira
Thank you so much Tara for trying the recipe, I am happy you liked it.
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Nicole Krause
What size pan?
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Amira
Nicole, it depends on the size of your phyllo sheets. Often times I make it in a 13x9 oven dish but sometimes I get large sheets so I make it in a half sheet size pan.
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Suzana
Salam Amira. your friend Suzana here;) I made this the other day and it turned out amazing. Thanks dear. Miss you.Reply
Amira
Hey Suzana, how are you dear. I hope everything is great with you. Thank you for trying the recipe, and I am happy you liked it. We miss you too dear.
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Nasreen
Goulash with feta and olive salad (as suggested!) And Basbousa makes for an amazing Iftar.Reply
Amira
Yum, Nasreen this looks amazing mashaa Allah.. bone appetit. Thank you so much for the picture.
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Bridget
I've eaten goulash many times but have always been intimidated to make it myself! I made it for the first time ever for iftar recently! Your recipe was simple and easy to follow. I made it my own by adding sweet colored peppers on top of the ground beef. My husband was impressed, which is pretty hard to do! Thank you!Reply
Amira
Bridget, thank you so much for your feedback, I wish I could have a peek :). Adding sweet peppers sounds great I bet it made it smell heavenly. Happy that your love like it.. thanks again.
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Irina
Hi Amira,I tried this recipe tonight and it was amazing, MashAllah! Thank you so much and can’t wait to try making many more of your recipes!
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Amira
Irina, thank you so much for your sweet feedback and I am really happy you liked it.
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Noonie
I added cheese to mine and they were delicious
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Amira
Thank you Noonie for trying the recipe. Cheese is a wonderful addition to this dish. I am happy you liked it.
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Ann22
Hi, just wondering, wouldn’t adding 1 cup of milk make this soggy? I have no memory of my Mom adding a cup of milk to her recipe. The egg wash, yes. Sadly, I didn’t pay much attention to so many of her recipes.
I do recall hers being crispy top and bottom. I’m planning on making this for a dinner party. Thanks!Reply
Amira
Ann22, it sure did not make it soggy, but if you like it crispy all over then feel free to skip.
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Iva
Hello Amira. Thanks for the recepie. I prepare goulash with meat for second time. I don't remember from where I took the recepie for first time, but few days ago I decided to follow your notes. It was delicious, but a little dry. Men at home eat it, but I am pleased when my man say I cook like an Egyptian wife :). In your recepie milk is 1 cup - how many ml is it? I used 200 ml and I guess it was not enough.
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Amira
Hello Iva, I use US cup which is exactly 236.588ml or let's round it up to 250ml. I hope this helps and I am happy that your man likes how you cook.. Egyptian men loooooove food hehehehe.
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Sam
Hi ! When you say one package do you mean the two rolls in box combined or just one packaged roll (half on bottom half on top ).. also I’ve had this the Greek way with only butter fat or light olive oil for layering sheets , no milk or egg.. the baked layers are shattering crisp ,, how would you describe the layers here in your recipe ? Ty I will make this for the holidays !
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Amira
Sorry Sam for the confusion, it is the whole 16oz thing. Sometimes it is sold as a one roll ( usually I get this from the International markets), while in other local stores it is divided into two rolls. But both weighs 16oz. So make one whole roll at the bottom and layer the other roll on the top. For the texture, I can say it will be more intact.. it is crispy on top but more tender, but not soggy, at the bottom. I believe this is due to the milk and egg mixture that we add at the end. I hope this helps.
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Rhose
So nice recipe, kids love it, i just added some mushroom and cooking cream and it's perfect..Reply
Amira
Rhose, thank you for your comment I am happy kids loved it as well.
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Akyeta
Love love this recipe, made it like 4 times already. They disappear in a matter of minutes :). Thank you.Reply
Amira
They do actually disappear fast, I agree to that. Thanks Akyeta.
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Mike
I made this tonight for the first time. It was delicious! I thawed the phyllo for 24 hours in the fridge. I had to be very careful separating the layers and tore a few, but just put them together in the glass baking dish. It was so good that we will be having it again for sure. Thank you for sharing it. I have several other of your recipes I am looking forward to trying soon!Reply
Amira
Mike, thank you so much for your feedback. This is one of my kids' favorite and we play a lot with the stuffing. Leftovers are great for lunch next day even at school. Do not let the dough intimidate you, in fact I only care for the last layer but in between I put the phyllo even if it is torn, no one will notice :). Happy that you liked it.
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Fairy H
This was so easy to make. I've made it for my daughter's Egyptian Day celebration at school and everyone loved them. I think I have found a new favorite.Reply
Amira
Thanks Fairy for your comment. I am happy that you loved it.
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Melissa
I have had a very similar dish at an Egyptian restaurant in Wichita, KS. So happy to have found this recipe, but what size pan do you use for this recipe?
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Amira
Hi Melissa, thank you for being interested in this recipe, I hope you'll find more recipes that will appeal to your taste in the blog. For this recipe it depends on the size of the phyllo you get, but I always use any 13"x9" for the phyllo I get from Walmart or use a this nordic pan (affiliate link) for the phyllo I get from the International market as it is bigger. Thanks again and please come back and tell me how it went .
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Maureen | org*smic Chef
I have to admit that I got teary reading the story about Raef getting his guitar and singing for your little boy. That's something he'll never forget and it took just a few minutes out of his life. I'm so impressed.
I would love your phyllo pie!
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Sylvia
What a happy shot of your boys with Raef. He looks like a great guy. Your pie looks really yummy. This would definitely be a complete meal for me. 🙂
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Easyfoodsmith
Wow...this looks scrumptious. I could grab that right off the screen 😀
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Evelyne@cheapethniceatz
That is such a cool story about your boys meeting a fave singer and him being to nice! And I remember your other goulash, I cannot be tricked lol. Looks really great!
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