This Cabbage Phyllo Pie is a savory, flaky, and delicious dish made with tender sautéed cabbage layered between crisp phyllo pastry sheets. Popular throughout Eastern Europe and the Balkans, this comforting pie is perfect for lunch, dinner, brunch, or as a make-ahead meal.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

Filling

• 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Pastry

• 1 package (16 ounces) phyllo dough, thawed
• ½ cup melted butter or olive oil for brushing

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried dill

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add:

• Onion
• Shredded cabbage

Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden.

Season with:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika

Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Stir in the beaten eggs and optional cheese if using.

Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying.

Step 3: Layer the Pie

Place one sheet of phyllo into the baking dish.

Brush lightly with melted butter.

Repeat with 6–8 sheets, brushing each layer.

Spread the cabbage filling evenly over the pastry.

Top with another 6–8 sheets of phyllo, brushing each layer with butter.

Tuck the edges neatly into the dish.

Step 4: Score the Top

Using a sharp knife, lightly score the top layers into squares or diamonds.

Do not cut all the way through.

Brush the top generously with remaining butter.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 40–45 minutes or until:

• Golden brown
• Crispy on top
• Filling is fully set

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes.

Cut along the scored lines and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Pie

Don’t Skip Cooling the Filling

Hot filling can make the phyllo soggy.

Keep Phyllo Covered

It dries out very quickly.

Brush Lightly

Too much butter can make the pastry greasy.

Score Before Baking

This makes slicing easier after baking.

Flavor Variations

Feta Cabbage Pie

Add:

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese

for a tangy, savory flavor.

Bacon Cabbage Pie

Mix in:

• 6 slices cooked, crumbled bacon

Mushroom Cabbage Pie

Add:

• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms

to the filling.

Cheesy Version

Add:

• Cheddar
• Mozzarella
• Gruyère

Spicy Cabbage Pie

Add:

• Red pepper flakes
• Cayenne pepper

What to Serve With

Main Meal

• Greek salad
• Tomato cucumber salad
• Roasted vegetables

Soups

• Vegetable soup
• Chicken soup
• Lentil soup

Sauces

• Garlic yogurt sauce
• Sour cream
• Tzatziki

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store covered for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Oven

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Air Fryer

Heat at 325°F (163°C) for 4–5 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage?

Yes, although green cabbage provides a milder flavor and more traditional appearance.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use puff pastry instead?

Yes, but the texture will be richer and less flaky than phyllo.

Why is my phyllo soggy?

The filling may have been too wet or too hot before layering.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian when made without bacon.

Recipe Notes

✅ Crispy, flaky layers.

✅ Budget-friendly ingredients.

✅ Perfect for meal prep.

✅ Great as a main dish or side.

✅ Traditional comfort food.

Make-Ahead Tip

Assemble the pie the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day.

Serving Suggestion

Serve warm with a dollop of garlic yogurt sauce and a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. 🥬🥧✨

Chef’s Secret

Add a teaspoon of caraway seeds to the cabbage while sautéing. This traditional addition enhances the cabbage flavor and gives the pie an authentic European touch. 😋🥬🥧✨

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?

Yes! It’s a great shortcut and works perfectly in this recipe.

Do I need to thaw phyllo dough first?

Yes, thaw it according to package directions before using.

Can I add meat?

Absolutely! Ground beef, sausage, or bacon are delicious additions.

Is this good served cold?

Yes, many people enjoy cabbage pie warm, room temperature, or chilled.

Can I make mini pies?

Yes! Use muffin tins or small baking dishes for individual portions.