Crispy Spinach & Cheese Börek Squares

Layered phyllo pastry squares filled with creamy spinach and cheese—delightfully crispy, savory bites perfect for appetizers or light meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These börek squares offer the irresistible crunch of golden phyllo pastry paired with a rich filling of spinach and cheese. They’re easy to prep, delicious warm or room temperature, and perfect for entertaining or a satisfying snack.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Phyllo dough sheets (thawed if frozen)

• Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed & drained)

• Onion, finely chopped

• Garlic, minced

• Olive oil (or butter for brushing phyllo)

• Feta cheese (crumbled)

• Ricotta or cream cheese

• Egg (for binding)

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• Nutmeg (optional)

• Sesame seeds or nigella seeds (for topping)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Grease a baking dish.

2. Sauté onion & garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet; cook onion until soft, then add garlic and spinach. Sauté until spinach wilts and moisture evaporates. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Let cool slightly.

3. Mix filling: In a bowl, combine cooled spinach mixture with feta, ricotta (or cream cheese), and egg. Adjust seasoning.

4. Layer phyllo: Unfold phyllo on a clean, damp cloth. Brush the baking dish with oil or butter. Layer 3–4 phyllo sheets, brushing each sheet lightly.

5. Add filling: Spread spinach-cheese mixture evenly over the layered phyllo.

6. Top layers: Layer another 3–4 phyllo sheets over the filling, brushing each as before.

7. Score & seed: With a sharp knife, carefully score the top phyllo into squares. Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds.

8. Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.

9. Serve: Allow to cool slightly, then cut along scored lines. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 16–20 squares (depending on size)

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Bake time: 25–30 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Cheese combo: Mix in grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar for extra richness.

• Herb infusion: Add fresh dill, parsley, or mint to the spinach filling.

• Spicy kick: Stir in chili flakes or diced jalapeño.

• Vegan version: Use vegan cheese and egg replacer; brush phyllo with olive oil.

storage/reheating

• Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigeration: Store covered for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

• Freezing: Freeze baked and cooled squares in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: Warm in a 350 °F oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp and heated through.

FAQs

What is phyllo and can I use puff pastry instead?

Phyllo is very thin, crisp dough traditionally used in Mediterranean baking. Puff pastry can be used, but results in a flakier, richer texture rather than delicately crisp layers.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes—ensure it’s fully thawed and excess water is squeezed out to prevent soggy pastry.

What cheeses work best?

Feta provides tang and saltiness, while ricotta or cream cheese adds creaminess. You may also mix in Parmesan or mozzarella.

How do I prevent the phyllo from drying out?

Keep phyllo covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent drying and tearing.

Can I make these ahead?

You can assemble the börek and refrigerate for up to several hours before baking. Bake just before serving.

Are they suitable for freezing?

Yes—they freeze well after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

How do I keep the bottom crust crisp?

Brush the bottom layers well with oil or butter; avoid overly wet fillings to maintain crispness.

Can I make mini rolls instead of squares?

Yes—spread filling over a single phyllo sheet, roll into a log, slice into 2‑inch pieces, and bake until golden.

Is nutmeg necessary?

No—it’s optional. A pinch adds warm depth, but you may omit it.

Can I serve these cold?

Absolutely—they’re delicious served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for picnics or buffets.

Conclusion

Crispy Spinach & Cheese Börek Squares offer a perfect blend of flaky pastry and savory filling, easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Ideal for gatherings, snacks, or light meals, their combination of textures and flavors will please any crowd. Customize with herbs or cheese variations to suit your taste and enjoy these delightful pastry squares.