Crispy Tiropita (Greek Cheese Triangles)

Tiropita, or Greek cheese pie, is a flaky, savory pastry filled with creamy feta cheese and wrapped in layers of crisp filo dough. Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or light lunch, this traditional Greek dish is easy to love and even easier to make. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving something deliciously crunchy, tiropita is always a good idea.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crispy and golden: The layers of filo turn irresistibly crisp in the oven.
• Rich and tangy: Feta cheese brings a salty, creamy depth that’s hard to resist.
• Simple ingredients: Just a few pantry staples come together beautifully.
• Great for sharing: These triangles are bite-sized and perfect for parties or mezze platters.

What Is Tiropita?

Tiropita (τυρόπιτα), literally meaning "cheese pie" in Greek, is a beloved part of Greek cuisine. Traditionally made with feta cheese, eggs, and sometimes herbs like mint or dill, it’s wrapped in filo pastry and baked until golden. It's one of the most popular mezze (small dishes) in Greece and can be found in homes, bakeries, and tavernas throughout the country. Tiropita is comfort food at its best—crispy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.

Pro Tips for the Best Tiropita

• Use good-quality feta: Authentic Greek feta (made with sheep’s milk) has the best flavor and creaminess.
• Keep filo covered: It dries out quickly, so cover with a damp towel while working.
• Brush generously: Don’t skimp on the olive oil—it helps create that signature crispness.
• Seal edges well: Fold tightly to avoid filling leaks during baking.
• Add herbs: Fresh mint or dill adds a fresh contrast to the salty cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Tiropita Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the triangles and refrigerate them, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

What Cheese Can I Use Instead of Feta?

While feta is traditional, you can mix in ricotta or cream cheese for a milder taste. Avoid overly soft cheeses that release too much moisture.

Do I Need to Use Three Filo Layers?

Yes, layering three strips helps prevent tearing and creates a satisfying crunch. You can use two if your filo is thick.

How Do I Fold the Triangles?

Start at one end and fold the filo over the filling like a flag—corner to edge—repeating until the end of the strip.

How to Store

Let the tiropita cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the filo soggy.

How to Freeze

You can freeze tiropita before or after baking. For unbaked tiropita, place on a tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes. For already baked triangles, let them cool and freeze in a single layer, then reheat in the oven straight from frozen. Use within 2 months for best results.

How to Make Tiropita (Greek Cheese Triangles)

Step 1

Step 1

In a medium bowl, mash the feta with a fork. Add the chopped mint, egg, and pepper. Mix until combined.

In a medium bowl, mash the feta with a fork. Add the chopped mint, egg, and pepper. Mix until combined.

Step 2

Step 2

Lay out the filo sheets and cut them into strips about 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

Lay out the filo sheets and cut them into strips about 2 inches (5 cm) wide. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.

Step 3

Step 3

Brush one strip with olive oil and stack two more strips on top, brushing each with oil.

Brush one strip with olive oil and stack two more strips on top, brushing each with oil.

Step 4

Step 4

Place a teaspoon of filling at the bottom of the strip.

Place a teaspoon of filling at the bottom of the strip.

Step 5

Step 5

Fold the filo over the filling to form a triangle, continuing to fold upward in a flag-like fashion until sealed.

Fold the filo over the filling to form a triangle, continuing to fold upward in a flag-like fashion until sealed.

Step 6

Step 6

Place the triangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and bake at 360°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Place the triangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and bake at 360°F (180°C) for 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Step 7

Step 7

Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature.

Arrange on a platter and serve warm or at room temperature.