Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spanakopita, a classic Greek dish, has long been adored for its crispy, flaky phyllo pastry, combined with a savory filling of spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. This recipe takes the beloved dish and gives it a spiral twist, making it not only visually stunning but also packed with irresistible layers of flavor. With its buttery, golden crust and creamy filling, this Spanakopita Spiral is perfect for any occasion—whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course.
Ingredients
- Frozen phyllo dough (or fresh phyllo dough)
- Fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- Feta cheese (or alternative cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta)
- Fresh dill (or parsley as a substitute)
- Garlic
- Onions
- Olive oil (or melted butter for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare the Filling: Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add the spinach and cook until wilted (if using fresh spinach). Allow the mixture to cool slightly before stirring in crumbled feta cheese, dill, salt, and pepper.
-
Assemble the Phyllo Dough: Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough and brush lightly with olive oil. Repeat this process, layering and brushing each sheet, until you have several layers of dough.
-
Add the Filling: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.
-
Form the Spiral: Carefully roll the phyllo dough and spinach filling into a spiral shape. Place the spiral onto a baking sheet.
-
Bake: Brush the top with more olive oil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve: Allow the spanakopita to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can add more vegetables like mushrooms or leeks for a richer filling.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free phyllo dough at specialty stores.
- Cheese Alternatives: Goat cheese or a mixture of ricotta and Parmesan can be used to add variety to the filling.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the spanakopita the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, if using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
What other herbs can I use?
If you’re not fond of dill, try using parsley, oregano, or a mix of fresh herbs to suit your taste.
Can I use different cheese?
Feta is traditional, but goat cheese, ricotta, or a blend of cheeses can also work well in the filling.
How do I prevent the phyllo dough from tearing?
Be gentle with the dough, and keep the unused sheets covered with a damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
Conclusion
This Flaky Spanakopita Spiral is the ultimate in savory pastries. The combination of crispy phyllo dough and a rich, cheesy spinach filling will transport you straight to Greece. Whether you’re preparing it for a party or simply as a special meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone!

Flaky Spanakopita Spiral
- Author: Amy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 slices
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Flaky Spanakopita Spiral takes the classic Greek dish and elevates it with a stunning spiral shape. Packed with a savory spinach and feta filling, wrapped in golden, crispy phyllo dough, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that combines buttery, flaky pastry with rich, flavorful filling.
Ingredients
-
For the Filling:
- 1 lb fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup feta cheese (or goat cheese, ricotta as alternatives)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (or parsley as a substitute)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
For the Phyllo Dough:
- 1 package of frozen phyllo dough (or fresh phyllo dough)
- Olive oil (or melted butter for brushing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add spinach and cook until wilted (if using fresh spinach). Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then stir in crumbled feta cheese, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Phyllo Dough: Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface, brushing lightly with olive oil. Add another sheet and repeat the process, layering and brushing with olive oil until you have several layers of dough.
- Add the Filling: Spread the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo dough.
- Form the Spiral: Carefully roll the phyllo dough and filling into a spiral shape. Place the spiral onto a prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush the top of the spiral with more olive oil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Allow the spanakopita to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, leeks, or bell peppers for added flavor and richness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free phyllo dough for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try goat cheese or a blend of ricotta and Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Variations: Swap out dill for parsley, oregano, or your favorite fresh herbs to customize the flavor.