Beef gyros are a tasty treat filled with juicy seasoned meat, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a soft pita. They are perfect for lunch or dinner!
Every bite is a burst of flavor, and I love how easy they are to make. Plus, you can add whatever toppings you like—because who doesn’t love a personalized gyros? 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or flank steak works best as they are tender and flavorful. If you want a leaner option, try chicken breast or even lamb for a traditional variation.
Pita Bread: While traditional pita is great, you can use naan or tortillas if you can’t find pitas. It will change the experience a bit, but they’re all delicious!
Tzatziki Sauce: Homemade tzatziki is a treat, but you can use store-bought if you’re short on time. For a vegan alternative, consider using dairy-free yogurt with cucumber and dill.
Vegetables: If you’re not a fan of one of the veggies, feel free to swap them out. Bell peppers or spinach can also work nicely in the gyros!
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking beef just right can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it! First, ensure your grill or skillet is hot before adding the beef to get a nice sear.
- Cook the beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Time it right! About 2-3 minutes on each side is usually perfect for thin slices.
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. Aim for around 145°F for medium-rare.
Letting the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking can help keep it juicy. Happy cooking!
How to Make Beef Gyros
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Gyros:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 40 minutes, plus marinating time. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 25 minutes cooking and assembling the gyros. If you marinate the beef overnight, it will taste even better!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
Start by making the marinade. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade and stir well to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you have the time. This will help the flavors soak in!
2. Cook the Beef:
Once your beef is marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until you achieve your desired doneness. The beef should be nicely browned and flavorful. Remove the beef from heat and let it rest for a moment.
3. Warm the Pita and Assemble:
While the beef is cooking, you can warm the pita breads in a separate skillet or oven until they’re soft and pliable. To put your gyros together, lay a warm pita bread on a plate. Start by adding a layer of shredded lettuce, then top with the grilled beef, followed by sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Finally, drizzle tzatziki sauce generously over the top. Fold the pita around the fillings to enclose everything. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Beef Gyros!
Can I Use Chicken or Lamb Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Chicken or lamb can be a great substitute for beef in this recipe. If you’re using chicken, ensure to cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For lamb, adjust cooking time as needed based on the thickness of your slices.
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef a day in advance to enhance the flavor. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also chop the veggies and prepare the tzatziki sauce a few hours ahead to save time on the day you plan to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Gyros?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the components separate to maintain freshness—store the beef and veggies separate from the pita to prevent sogginess. Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before serving again.
Can I Make My Own Tzatziki Sauce?
Definitely! To make tzatziki sauce, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 cucumber (grated and drained), 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tbsp vinegar, and salt to taste. Mix well and allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
