Beef gyros are a fun and tasty twist on a classic! Tender beef is seasoned with spices, then cooked and wrapped in soft pita bread with fresh tomatoes and creamy sauce.
Honestly, these little wraps are like a party in your hand! I love to make a bunch and share them with friends—everyone just digs in! Plus, they’re super easy to customize.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: Thinly sliced beef sirloin offers a tender bite. If you prefer something leaner, try flank steak or chicken as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, swap it with marinated grilled eggplant or mushrooms.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the tzatziki sauce. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based yogurt. I like using coconut yogurt for a hint of sweetness, but almond or cashew yogurt works great too!
Pita Bread: Classic for gyros, but if you can’t find it, use flatbreads or tortillas. For a low-carb option, lettuce wraps are delicious and keep things fresh and light.
Cucumber: Diced cucumber gives a refreshing crunch. If you don’t have cucumber, zucchini can be a nice substitute, or you could skip it altogether if you’re not a fan.
How Can I Make the Best Tzatziki Sauce?
The key to a great tzatziki sauce is balancing the flavor. After combining Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper, be sure to let it chill. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making every bite heavenly!
- Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture if you want a thicker sauce.
- Don’t rush the chilling process; aim for at least 30 minutes.
- Feel free to adjust garlic based on your preference; more for a punch, less for a mild taste!
How to Make Beef Gyros
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 pita bread or flatbreads
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the beef. Cooking will take another 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour to make these tasty beef gyros!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well. Once it’s combined, cover the bowl and put it in the refrigerator to chill. This sauce is refreshing and will add great flavor to your gyros!
2. Marinate the Beef:
In another bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with olive oil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the beef is well coated with the marinade. You can let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, marinating for a few hours will enhance the flavor!
3. Cook the Beef:
Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef strips to the hot pan and cook them for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the beef is fully cooked and has a nice char. The aroma will be wonderful!
4. Warm the Pita Bread:
While the beef is cooking, warm the pita bread in the oven or on another skillet until they are soft and pliable. This way, they’ll wrap nicely around your fillings!
5. Assemble the Gyros:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a warm pita, and in the center, place a generous portion of the cooked beef. Next, add shredded lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and slices of red onion on top.
6. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, drizzle a good amount of chilled tzatziki sauce over the filling. Fold the pita over all the delicious ingredients. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your homemade beef gyros with family and friends!
Can I Use Chicken or Lamb Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken or lamb. Adjust the cooking time as needed; chicken may take about 5-6 minutes, while lamb will take a similar time as beef. Make sure to marinate it the same way for maximum flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Gyros?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The filling and tzatziki can be kept separately to maintain freshness. To reheat, warm the beef gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling your gyros again!
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt or sour cream as alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try unsweetened coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary slightly!
Can I Add More Vegetables to My Gyros?
Certainly! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives. Grilled vegetables also make a great addition! Just make sure to slice them thinly so they fit easily in the pita.
