There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of zambonotyropita (ζαμπονοτυρόπιτα) fresh from the oven.
This savory Greek pie, filled with layers of creamy cheese and smoky ham wrapped in golden pastry, is a comfort food classic you’ll find in bakeries, homes, and school lunches all across Greece.
Perfect for breakfast, a quick lunch, or as part of a mezze spread, this pie is easy to make and guaranteed to disappear fast.
What is Zambonotyropita?
Zambonotyropita comes from two Greek words: zambono (ham) and tyri (cheese). It’s essentially a ham and cheese pie, but the Greek version has its own charm: rich, cheesy filling, flaky pastry, and that irresistible topping of sesame seeds.
Unlike a plain sandwich, this pie is baked with love, turning a few simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish.
Crockery & ingredients love using—find them all here: My Mediterranean Greek Pantry
200 g ham (chopped)
200 g feta cheese, crumbled
200 g yellow cheese (kasseri, gouda, or mozzarella), grated
2 eggs
200 ml milk or yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
1 tbsp mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
1 egg yolk (for brushing)
Sesame seeds + nigella seeds (for topping)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a round or rectangular baking dish.
Layer the pastry: Place one puff pastry sheet in the bottom of the dish, making sure it covers the base and sides.
Prepare filling: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with milk/cream. Add chopped ham, crumbled feta, and grated yellow cheese. Mix well. Season lightly with pepper (be careful with salt because feta is salty). If using, stir in mustard.
Fill the pie: Pour the mixture over the bottom pastry. Spread evenly.
Top with pastry: Place the second pastry sheet on top. Seal the edges by folding or pressing down with a fork.
Finish: Brush with beaten egg yolk, sprinkle with sesame and nigella seeds.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and puffed.
Cool slightly before cutting into slices.
Serving suggestion: Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a crisp salad. Perfect for lunch, picnics, or as a meze!
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