gyro ground beef recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
gyro ground beef recipe
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The Best gyro ground beef recipe

I’ve been making this gyro ground beef recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The combination of tender ground beef, crunchy veggies, and tangy tzatziki sauce is a winner. I love how easy it is to customize with your favorite toppings and spices.

My kids devour it, and I appreciate the healthy dose of protein and fiber it provides. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies from the fridge.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it’ll become one of your family’s favorites too. I’ve experimented with different cooking methods over the years, but the traditional Greek technique of cooking the meat in a vertical spit remains my go-to method.

There’s something magical about watching the sizzling meat spin on the spit as the juices drip onto the pita bread. The smoky flavor that develops is unparalleled.

To achieve this effect at home, I use a skillet or grill pan to cook the meat in large chunks, then serve it on warm pita bread with all the fixings. It’s a game-changer for any mealtime.

Gyro Ground Beef

Gyro Ground Beef

4.9 from 1069 votes

This recipe transforms ground beef into a flavorful gyro filling with classic Mediterranean spices. The meat is seasoned with oregano, cumin, and garlic, then cooked until browned and juicy.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Gyro Meat

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For Serving

4 pita breads
1 cup tzatziki sauce
1 tomato, sliced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes.
3Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4Then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
5The meat should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 160°F.
6Sprinkle the oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture.
7Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
8Remove from heat.
9Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, or until pliable and lightly toasted.
10Alternatively, wrap them in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
11Assemble the gyros by placing a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef onto each pita.
12Top with tzatziki sauce, tomato slices, red onion, and fresh parsley.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring spoons
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken. Adjust salt to taste if using a high-sodium tzatziki sauce.

Watch Video Of How Gyro Ground Beef Works

This gyro ground beef recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re planning a casual dinner party or just need something quick and delicious for family night. The best part?

It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. My family loves it when we serve it as sliders or wraps – just be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gyro Ground Beef

Q: What type of meat should I use for this gyro recipe?

The best meat for this recipe is lean ground beef, preferably 80/20 or 70/30 lean to fat ratio.

Q: Can I make this recipe without tzatziki sauce?

While tzatziki sauce adds a tangy twist to this dish, you can omit it if you’re not a fan or if you’re short on time.

Q: How do I keep my gyro meat juicy?

The key to keeping your gyro meat juicy is to not overcook it.

Q: Can I serve this recipe as an appetizer?

This recipe makes an excellent appetizer when served in small portions on toasted pita bread.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

This recipe can be prepared ahead of time by cooking the meat and assembling the toppings.

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