Syrian Meat Pies

Prep: 30 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Syrian Meat Pies feature savory ground beef and pine nuts encased in tender dough, baked to golden perfection—ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a flavorful snack.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • dash of ground pepper
  • 8 oz. plain yogurt
  • 3 oz. package pine or pignolia nuts
  • 1 package hot roll mix

Instructions

  1. Prepare roll mix according to directions on box.
  2. While dough is rising, mix ground beef, salt, pepper, yogurt, and pine nuts in a bowl and let stand a short while.
  3. Refrigerate the mixture until ready to use.
  4. After dough has risen, pinch off enough to make 1 to 1 1/2-inch balls.
  5. Cover a cookie sheet with wax paper or a dish towel.
  6. Place balls on the cookie sheet, cover with another towel, and let rise again.
  7. Roll each ball into a circle about 4 inches in diameter.
  8. Put 1 heaping tablespoon of meat mixture in the center of each circle.
  9. Bring up the edges to the center and seal.
  10. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a flavor boost, consider adding some spices like cumin or cinnamon to the meat mixture. If you can’t find pine nuts, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. When rolling out the dough, ensure it's not too thick to allow for even cooking. If you're short on time, pre-made dough can be used instead of hot roll mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious Syrian meat pies with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair nicely with Tomato-Lentil Soup(For Microwave) for a hearty dinner. You can also enjoy them as an appetizer at gatherings or with a dipping sauce for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover meat pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven keeps the crust crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Syrian Meat Pies contains roughly 364 calories, with 12g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

364 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12g 24% DV
Total Fat 22.2g 28% DV
Carbs 42.9g 16% DV
Fiber 17.4g 62% DV
Sugar 1.5g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 298.8mg 13% DV
Potassium 1000.9mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 11.2mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 22.8mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 286.1mg 22% DV
Iron 6.6mg 37% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 use a different type of meat for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground lamb or turkey for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the fat content, as leaner meats may require additional moisture to prevent dryness.

How can I make these pies ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat filling and dough in advance. Assemble the pies and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer for a longer time, or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I serve with Syrian meat pies?

These meat pies go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a refreshing tabbouleh salad or a side of hummus. For a heartier option, pair them with Beef Tomato Eggplant Casserole for a complete meal.

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).

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