Cheesy Spinach & Feta Gozleme

A savory Turkish flatbread stuffed with tender spinach, creamy feta, and melting cheese—pan-cooked to a crisp, golden perfection. Ideal as a snack, lunch, or light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These gozleme deliver the warm, rustic appeal of handmade flatbreads combined with a satisfying, cheesy filling. They’re versatile, portable, and packed with wholesome greens—perfect for family meals or gatherings.

ingredients

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

  • all‑purpose flour
  • water (lukewarm), plus extra for brushing
  • plain yogurt (optional, for softer dough)
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • fresh spinach (washed and chopped)
  • crumbled feta cheese
  • shredded mozzarella or kashkaval cheese
  • minced garlic (optional)
  • chopped fresh parsley or dill (optional)
  • black pepper, to taste

directions

  1. Make the dough: In a bowl, combine flour, salt, yogurt (if using), water, and a drizzle of olive oil. Knead about 5–7 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
  2. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta, mozzarella, garlic, parsley, and black pepper.
  3. Divide dough: Separate into 4–6 equal portions. Roll each into a thin circle (approx. 8–10 inches diameter).
  4. Assemble gozleme: Spread spinach‑cheese filling over half of each rolled circle, leaving a small edge. Fold dough over filling to form a semicircle and gently seal edges.
  5. Cook: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush lightly with olive oil. Cook each gozleme 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese melts. Brush with olive oil between flips.
  6. Serve: Slice into wedges and enjoy warm, straight from the pan.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: Yields 4–6 gozleme, serving 2–3 people (as a meal) or 4–6 people (as a snack/appetizer).
  • Prep time: ~15 minutes (plus 20 minutes dough rest)
  • Cook time: ~15 minutes
  • Total time: ~50 minutes

Variations

  • Herb variations: Add mint, dill, or chives for extra flavor.
  • Spicy twist: Include sliced chilies or chili flakes in the filling.
  • Protein boost: Add cooked ground lamb, beef, or shredded chicken to turn it into a heartier dish.
  • Alternate cheeses: Swap feta or mozzarella with ricotta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar for different textures.

storage/reheating

  • Fridge: Store any leftover gozleme in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap each cooled gozleme in foil or plastic wrap; freeze for 2–3 months.
  • Reheating: Rewarm in a 350 °F oven for 8–10 minutes or crisp up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes—prepare and refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before rolling.

2. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes—just thaw, drain thoroughly, and squeeze out excess liquid before mixing with cheese.

3. What if the dough tears while rolling?

Patch gently by pinching the dough or applying a little water to seal small tears. Keep dough surface lightly floured to prevent sticking.

4. Can I bake these instead of pan‑fry?

Yes—brush with olive oil, bake at 400 °F for about 15 minutes until golden, flipping halfway through.

5. How do I prevent soggy gozleme?

Drain spinach well and avoid overfilling. Cooking on medium heat ensures moisture cooks off without burning.

6. Are these vegetarian?

Yes—this spinach and cheese version is naturally vegetarian.

7. Can I make smaller sizes?

Absolutely—divide dough into more portions for individual mini gozleme—perfect for kids or appetizers.

8. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes—substitute half or all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and heartier texture.

9. What drinks pair well?

Serve with ayran (yogurt drink), mint tea, or a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc.

10. Can I reheat in a toaster or air-fryer?

Yes—50 sec to 2 minutes in an air-fryer or toaster oven crisps them back up nicely.

Conclusion

Cheesy Spinach & Feta Gozleme are a delicious and wholesome twist on traditional Turkish flatbreads. With simple ingredients, customizable fillings, and easy prep, they’re a satisfying comfort food that will become a household staple. Enjoy these crisp, cheesy parcels at any time of day!

Print
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Cheesy Spinach & Feta Gozleme

Cheesy Spinach & Feta Gozleme

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5–15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (12–16 meatballs) 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Broiled
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Halal

Description

Juicy lamb meatballs infused with fresh herbs and Mediterranean spices, served with creamy tzatziki sauce—ideal as a flavorful appetizer or satisfying main dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red or yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil (for baking or pan-frying)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cucumber, seeded and grated or diced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for sauce)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • Optional: additional mint or parsley for tzatziki

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400–425°F or set broiler to high.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground lamb, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and optional feta.
  3. Form mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place 2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet.
  4. Broil for 5–7 minutes, turning halfway, until browned and cooked through. Alternatively, bake for 8–10 minutes, then broil briefly for a crisp finish.
  5. While meatballs cook, make tzatziki: combine Greek yogurt, well-drained cucumber, garlic, dill, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
  6. Serve meatballs hot with tzatziki sauce for dipping or drizzling.

Notes

  • To prevent watery tzatziki, salt and squeeze moisture from grated cucumber before mixing.
  • Meatballs can be pan-fried or grilled instead of baked or broiled.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit entirely for a gluten-free version.
  • Tzatziki can be made dairy-free using plant-based yogurt.
  • Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months; tzatziki is best made fresh.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3–4 meatballs with 2 tbsp tzatziki
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 370mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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