Traditional Turkish flatbread boats filled with a rich blend of cheeses, herbs, and spices—perfectly golden, chewy, and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turkish Cheese Pide offers an authentic taste of Turkish cuisine with its signature boat-shaped crust, crisp edges, and gooey cheese filling. The dough is soft and airy, while the cheese blend adds a creamy, salty richness complemented by herbs and mild spices. It’s a versatile dish suitable for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, and it pairs beautifully with soups or salads. Whether you’re new to Turkish cooking or already a fan, this comforting flatbread will become a favorite.

ingredients

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

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast

For the filling:

1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon black sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For brushing:

1 egg yolk, beaten
1 tablespoon milk

directions

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, yogurt, olive oil, and salt. Mix and knead for 7–8 minutes until a soft dough forms.
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each into an 8-inch oval.
In a separate bowl, mix feta, mozzarella, ricotta, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the filling into the center of each dough oval, leaving a border around the edges.
Fold the edges slightly inward and pinch the ends to create a boat shape.
Brush the crust edges with the egg yolk and milk mixture. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and sesame seeds over the filling.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 individual pides and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes total, including resting and baking time. Preparation time is approximately 25 minutes, and baking takes 15–18 minutes.

Variations

Spinach and cheese: Add sautéed spinach to the cheese mixture for extra nutrients.
Spicy version: Mix in chopped chili or hot pepper paste for a fiery kick.
Egg-topped pide: Crack an egg over the filling before baking for a traditional touch.
Vegan option: Use dairy-free cheese and yogurt alternatives, and skip the egg wash.
Meaty twist: Add sautéed ground beef or sucuk (Turkish sausage) alongside the cheese.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pide in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crust texture.

FAQs

What is Turkish pide?

Turkish pide is a boat-shaped flatbread traditionally filled with various toppings like cheese, meats, and vegetables, similar to pizza but with a unique shape and dough.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can substitute with store-bought dough for convenience, though homemade dough offers the most authentic flavor and texture.

Is this dish traditionally vegetarian?

Yes, peynirli pide (cheese pide) is a common vegetarian variety in Turkish cuisine.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Absolutely. You can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours and shape/bake it the next day.

How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?

The dough should be smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky—about 7–8 minutes of kneading by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer.

Can I freeze Turkish pide?

Yes, bake them first, let them cool, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

What cheese combinations work best?

A blend of feta, mozzarella, and ricotta gives a perfect balance of salty, melty, and creamy textures.

What to serve with Turkish pide?

It pairs well with a fresh tomato and cucumber salad, lentil soup, or a glass of ayran (Turkish yogurt drink).

Can I make mini pides for parties?

Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time to about 10–12 minutes.

Why is the shape of the pide important?

The boat shape helps keep the filling contained and allows the edges to crisp beautifully while the center stays soft and melty.

Conclusion

Turkish Cheese Pide is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines traditional flavors with a comforting texture and an elegant presentation. Whether served as a meal or appetizer, it brings the warmth and richness of Turkish cuisine to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.