A Turkish-inspired flatbread stuffed with savory ground beef, fresh spinach, and melted cheese, then pan-fried until crisp and golden. Served with lemon wedges and optional yogurt, this comforting street food favorite is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Spinach Gozleme is satisfying, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home. The dough is soft yet crisp when cooked, the beef is warmly spiced, and the cheese adds a gooey, indulgent touch. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different fillings and works equally well as a family meal or a casual gathering dish.

ingredients

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

For the Dough:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

To Serve:
Lemon wedges
Plain yogurt (optional)

directions

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
Add ground beef, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned.
Stir in spinach until wilted, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Divide dough into 4 equal balls. Roll each ball into a thin rectangle or oval.
Spoon the beef and spinach mixture over half of each dough piece. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Fold dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each gozleme for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp.
Serve hot with lemon wedges and yogurt on the side.

Servings and timing

Makes 4 gozleme.
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes resting time for dough)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 65 minutes

Variations

Lamb Version: Replace beef with ground lamb for a richer flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for feta cheese and extra spinach or mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or diced fresh chili to the filling.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in cheddar or feta along with mozzarella for extra flavor.
Herb Boost: Add fresh parsley, dill, or mint to the filling for freshness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze uncooked gozleme for up to 2 months; cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?

Yes, pizza dough or flatbread dough can be used to save time.

Is gozleme traditionally made with yeast dough?

Some recipes use yeast, but this version uses a quick, yeast-free dough for convenience.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the best cheese for gozleme?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but feta or a mix of cheeses adds more flavor.

Can I grill gozleme instead of pan-frying?

Yes, cook over medium heat on a grill or griddle for a smoky flavor.

Can I make a vegetarian gozleme without cheese?

Yes, simply increase the vegetables and seasonings for a dairy-free option.

Why rest the dough before rolling?

Resting relaxes the gluten, making the dough easier to roll thinly.

Can I bake gozleme instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.

How do I stop the filling from leaking?

Seal the edges well by pressing with your fingers or a fork, and avoid overfilling.

Is gozleme served with any sauces?

Lemon juice is traditional, but yogurt-based dips or garlic sauce are also popular.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Spinach Gozleme is a flavorful, crispy, and comforting dish that’s simple enough for weeknight cooking yet special enough for entertaining. With its savory filling, golden crust, and fresh lemon finish, it’s a recipe worth adding to your collection of go-to meals.