Phyllo Cheese Triangles
Crispy, golden phyllo triangles filled with a savory cheese and parsley mixture, perfect as appetizers or party snacks for cheese lovers and those who enjoy flaky pastries.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shredded Muenster cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped fresh parsley, lightly beaten egg, and ground red pepper; set aside.
- Unfold the thawed phyllo pastry and cover with a slightly damp towel to prevent drying.
- Place one sheet of phyllo on a flat surface and brush with melted butter.
- Repeat with two more sheets of phyllo, stacking them together.
- Cut the stacked phyllo sheets into 1 1/2-inch wide strips lengthwise.
- Place a small amount of the cheese mixture at the base of each strip.
- Fold the right bottom corner of the strip over to form a triangle, then fold back and forth into a triangle, pressing the corners together.
- Repeat the folding process with remaining phyllo sheets, butter, and cheese mixture.
- Brush the assembled triangles with remaining melted butter.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
When handling phyllo pastry, work quickly to prevent it from drying out. If you don't have Muenster cheese, a good substitute would be Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For added flavor, consider mixing in some crumbled feta cheese. If you prefer a bit more spice, try adding some chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these phyllo cheese triangles warm as an appetizer or snack at gatherings. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. For a delightful Mediterranean meal, consider serving them alongside Mediterranean recipes like Wonderful Spinach Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the triangles in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the pastry soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Phyllo Cheese Triangles contains roughly 561 calories, with 20g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these triangles ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the triangles ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. When ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use different cheeses for the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as feta, goat cheese, or even a sharp provolone. Mixing in herbs or spices can also enhance the flavor for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
How do I know when the triangles are done baking?
The cheese triangles are done when they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning. A lovely aroma will also indicate that they are ready to be enjoyed!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).