Subscribe to my Youtube Channel FOR FREE!

Crispy Greek Saganaki Cheese – The Ultimate 10-Minute Appetizer

Σαγανάκι Τυρί - Fried cheese

Saganaki is one of the most beloved Greek appetizers—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Made with a slice of firm cheese that’s lightly floured and pan-fried until golden, this iconic meze is traditionally served with a fresh squeeze of lemon and a side of crusty bread or pita. Whether you’re preparing a Mediterranean-themed dinner or just looking for a quick and satisfying snack, Saganaki cheese is guaranteed to impress.

The best part? It comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients. All you need is a high-quality Greek cheese like kefalotyri, graviera, or kefalograviera, a bit of flour, and a hot pan. The crispy crust paired with melty cheese inside creates the perfect bite, especially when finished with a splash of fresh lemon juice. Simple, authentic, and absolutely irresistible.

Crispy Greek Saganaki Cheese – The Ultimate 10-Minute Appetizer

Recipe by George Zolis
5.0 from 2 votes
Course: Appetizers and MezeCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy
Servings

2

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

920

kcal
Total time

15

minutes

A classic Greek meze made with a crispy, golden crust and melty cheese inside. Saganaki is simple, delicious, and best enjoyed hot with a squeeze of lemon.

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

  • 2 large slices 2 large slices Hard cheese

  • Water (for moistening the cheese)

  • Flour (for dredging)

  • Vegetable oil for frying

Recipe directions

  • Cut a firm slice of cheese approximately 1 cm thick.
  • Lightly dip the cheese in water, then allow the excess moisture to drain off.
  • Coat the cheese slice evenly with flour, ensuring full coverage. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Once hot, add the cheese and fry for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.
  • Remove and place on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  • Serve immediately with a wedge of fresh lemon.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @georgezolis on Instagram and hashtag it with #georgezolis

Like this recipe?

Follow @gzoliskitchen on Pinterest

Γίνετε μέλος της Ομάδας μας

Ακολουθήστε τις Μαγειρικές Απολαύσεις στο Facebook

Nutrition Facts

2 servings per container


Calories920

  • Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
  • Total Fat 76g 117%
    • Saturated Fat 17g 85%
  • Cholesterol 130mg 44%
  • Sodium 1740mg 73%
  • Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
  • Total Carbohydrate 16g 6%
    • Protein 46g 92%
    • Calcium 100%
    • Iron 4%

    * The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.