Oven Fried Feta Rolls

This oven fried feta rolls recipe transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular appetizer that will have your guests asking for the recipe. The combination of crispy phyllo, creamy cheese filling, and spicy-sweet honey creates an irresistible flavor explosion that's surprisingly easy to make at home.

I first made these rolls for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party, and they disappeared within minutes. Now they're my go-to impressive appetizer when I want something that looks fancy but doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 oz feta cheese crumbled: Choose a high-quality Greek or Bulgarian feta for the best tangy flavor and creamy texture
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess while balancing the saltiness of the feta
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional): Provides earthy freshness that complements the cheeses beautifully
• 6 sheets phyllo pastry cut in half lengthwise: Look for fresh phyllo in the refrigerated section for best results
• ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil: Creates that golden crispy exterior that makes these rolls irresistible
• ¼ cup honey: Select a light runny variety that will easily drizzle over the warm rolls
• ½ tsp red chili flakes: Adjust according to your heat preference; fresh crushed flakes have the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

Combine the crumbled feta, ricotta cheese, and thyme leaves in a medium mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well integrated. The texture should be creamy but still have some small feta chunks for texture variation. This filling can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Prep the Phyllo:

Unroll the phyllo sheets and immediately cover with a lightly damp kitchen towel to prevent drying. Working quickly, cut the sheets in half lengthwise to create 12 strips. Keep the strips covered when not actively working with them as phyllo dries out incredibly quickly and becomes brittle and unusable.

Assemble the Rolls:

Lay one strip of phyllo on a clean work surface with the long side facing you. Brush the entire surface lightly but thoroughly with melted butter. Place about 1 tablespoon of cheese filling at the end closest to you, leaving about half an inch of space at the edges. Fold the sides inward over the filling, then roll away from you, creating a tight cylinder. The key is rolling firmly enough to keep the filling contained but gently enough not to tear the delicate phyllo.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the assembled rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Brush the tops and sides generously with more butter to ensure even browning. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes, watching carefully after the 12-minute mark. They should be deeply golden brown and audibly crispy when tapped with a utensil.

Create the Chili Honey:

While the rolls bake, warm honey in a small saucepan over low heat just until it becomes more liquid. Remove from heat, add chili flakes, and let steep for 5 minutes to infuse the spicy flavor. The longer it sits, the spicier it becomes, so taste and adjust accordingly.

Serve with Style:

Allow the rolls to cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with the warm chili honey or serve it alongside in a small dish for dipping. The contrast between the hot, crispy rolls and the sweet-spicy honey creates an unforgettable flavor experience.

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You Must Know

I've experimented with dozens of cheeses in these rolls, but the feta-ricotta combination remains my favorite. My husband, who typically avoids spicy foods, loves these so much he actually requests extra chili flakes in the honey now!

Make-Ahead Options

These feta rolls are perfect for entertaining because you can prepare them in advance. Assemble the rolls up to 24 hours before your event and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply brush with a bit of fresh butter and bake. The chili honey can also be made up to a week ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Just warm it slightly before serving.

Variations Worth Trying

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, you can create exciting variations by adding different herbs and spices to the cheese mixture. Try adding minced fresh mint and lemon zest for a brighter flavor profile, or incorporate finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil for an Italian twist. For a more substantial appetizer, add finely chopped spinach that has been thoroughly squeezed of excess moisture.

Serving Suggestions

These feta rolls shine as part of a larger Mediterranean mezze spread. Pair them with hummus, olives, fresh vegetables, and grilled halloumi cheese for an impressive appetizer table. They also make a wonderful first course for a dinner party, served warm with a small arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For a creative brunch option, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

Troubleshooting Tips

Working with phyllo dough can be intimidating for beginners, but a few simple techniques make it manageable. If your phyllo tears while rolling, simply overlap the torn pieces and continue rolling. The butter will help seal any cracks during baking. If your rolls are browning too quickly in the oven, cover them loosely with foil for the remaining baking time. And remember, imperfect-looking rolls still taste delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of feta works best for this dish?

High-quality feta is recommended for its bold, tangy flavor. Aim for a creamy and well-seasoned option.

→ Can I prepare the rolls in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

→ How can I adjust the spice level of the chili honey?

To make it spicier, increase the chili flakes. For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chili or omit it entirely.

→ What are some alternative cheeses for this recipe?

You can substitute ricotta with goat cheese or cream cheese for a slightly different flavor and texture.

→ How do I prevent the phyllo pastry from drying out?

Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp kitchen towel while working to maintain moisture and pliability.