Name: Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely diced; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 400g lamb mince; 300g frozen spinach; ½ tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp dried herbs; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 2 tsp flour; 1 can crushed tomatoes, 400g; 1 cup grated cheese, 100g; 250g ricotta; 5 sheets of filo pastry, 130g total; 2 Tbsp butter, melted

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If you’re looking for a dish that brings together hearty flavors, fresh greens, and a wonderfully crispy top, you’re going to fall in love with this Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe. It’s the perfect comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender spiced lamb and creamy ricotta with vibrant spinach, all wrapped in delicate, flaky filo pastry. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and rich, savory tastes that are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl contains three main layers, all separate. On the left is a pile of light yellow shredded cheese with a soft texture, sprinkled lightly with black pepper. On the top right, there is a bright green, finely chopped leafy mixture, appearing fresh and moist. On the bottom right, there is a thick white creamy layer with some specks of black pepper and a faint pinkish hue on the surface. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: spices bring warmth and depth, fresh greens add brightness, and the filo pastry delivers that irresistible crunch.

1 Tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity base flavor.
1 onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and a tender texture to the filling.
2 garlic cloves, crushed: Brings aromatic richness that elevates the minced lamb.
400g lamb mince: The star protein, offering robust flavor and juiciness.
½ tsp cinnamon: Introduces a warm, slightly sweet note to the spice mix.
1 tsp cumin: Adds earthiness and depth, pairing beautifully with lamb.
1 tsp dried herbs: For that herby kick that complements the meat and spinach.
1 tsp sugar: Balances acidity and enhances the flavors in the tomato sauce.
1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing the dish together.
½ tsp ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat for complexity.
2 tsp flour: Helps thicken the sauce so the filling isn’t too runny.
1 can crushed tomatoes, 400g: Provides a rich, tangy base for the lamb filling.
300g frozen spinach: Adds vibrant green color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the meat.
1 cup grated cheese, 100g: Melts into the filling, bringing creaminess and flavor.
250g ricotta: Softens the texture and adds a luscious dairy note.
5 sheets of filo pastry, 130g: Creates the crunchy, flaky crust that makes this pie irresistible.
2 Tbsp butter, melted: Used to brush each filo sheet for golden crispiness.

How to Make Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown Lamb

Start by heating the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion and crushed garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Then add the lamb mince, breaking it up as it cooks until beautifully browned. This process builds the base flavor that the rest of the dish will rest on.

Step 2: Spice It Up and Thicken the Sauce

Once the lamb is cooked through, stir in the cinnamon, cumin, dried herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. This lovely blend of spices adds warmth and complexity. Sprinkle over the flour and stir well to coat the lamb. This little trick ensures your sauce thickens nicely later on, giving the filling a perfect consistency.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and mix everything together. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld before you remove the pan from heat. This saucy base will keep the minced lamb wonderfully moist throughout the baking process.

Step 4: Prep the Spinach Mixture

While the lamb simmers, place the frozen spinach in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for about 2 minutes until thawed. Then put it into a sieve and squeeze out any extra water. In a separate large bowl, combine the drained spinach with grated cheese and ricotta. Season generously with salt and pepper, mixing everything until evenly blended and creamy.

Step 5: Layer the Pie

Grab a 26cm by 18cm ovenproof baking dish and spoon the lamb mixture over the base, spreading it out evenly to the edges. Next, carefully layer the spinach and ricotta mixture on top of the lamb, smoothing it out evenly as well. This two-layer filling forms the heart of the pie, balancing meatiness with fresh, creamy greens.

Step 6: Build the Crispy Filo Topping

Take one sheet of filo pastry at a time, brushing it lightly with melted butter before gently scrunching it and placing it over the filling. Repeat until all five sheets have covered the top, creating a beautiful flaky crust. The butter not only helps the filo brown to a golden crisp but also keeps it tender and flavorful.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C fan bake and pop the assembled pie in for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye out for that gorgeous golden color and crisp texture on the filo. Once baked, your Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe is ready to serve — piping hot, filled with comforting layers and a crunchy top that everyone will love.

How to Serve Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish holds a golden brown, flaky pie with several layers of crispy pastry on top, each layer showing a flaky texture with deep golden and slightly burnt edges. One section of the pie is missing, revealing a creamy filling mixed with green herbs and small bits of brown, cooked filling inside. Sprigs of fresh parsley sit on top of the pie for garnish. Next to the baking dish, a white plate holds a serving of the pie with visible layers of golden pastry and creamy green filling. The setup rests on a white marbled surface with a blue and white patterned cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a fresh, vibrant finish, scatter freshly chopped parsley or mint over the top just before serving. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a side of tzatziki really complements the spices and adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm pie.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs beautifully with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon and olive oil for some lightness. Roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad also make excellent companions, balancing the richness of the pie with their freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins or making mini versions of this Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe using muffin tins. You can also try draping a sheet of flaky filo over the edges for a rustic look, or even adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts on top for extra texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making for a tasty next-day meal that’s easy to reheat.

Freezing

This pie freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire dish securely with plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat as usual.

Reheating

To bring your leftover Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe back to life, reheat it in the oven at 180°C for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and the filo is crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delightful crunchy texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used and simply wilted down in a pan until most of the moisture evaporates before mixing it with the cheese. Just be sure to squeeze out any extra water to avoid a soggy pie.

Is there a substitute for filo pastry?

If you don’t have filo on hand, puff pastry can work as a replacement. It won’t be as thin or crispy, but it will still offer a delicious golden crust.

Can I make this pie vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the lamb mince for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and lentils or cooked chickpeas to keep the hearty texture, then follow the rest of the recipe as usual.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

A hard, flavorful cheese like cheddar or a mild mozzarella works well combined with ricotta. You can also experiment with feta for a tangier twist, which pairs wonderfully with spinach.

How can I make the pie spicier?

To add heat, include some chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili when cooking the lamb mixture. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky warmth.

Final Thoughts

This Lamb, Spinach & Filo Pie Recipe is such a joy to make and even more satisfying to eat. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and elegance that can brighten any dinner table, whether for a family meal or a special occasion. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so straightforward can feel so luxurious and flavorful!