Easy Beef Gyros bring the taste of Greece right to your dinner table! Juicy beef is seasoned with yummy herbs and piled high in warm pitas with fresh veggies and creamy sauce.
If you’re like me, you love a meal that’s quick to make and even quicker to eat! I love adding a side of fries for some extra crunch—because who can resist fries, right? 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using flank steak for its tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin is also great. If you’re vegetarian or want a different protein, consider grilled chicken or grilled vegetables.
Spices: Dried oregano adds a classic Greek taste, but if you don’t have it, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also be delightful if you have them on hand.
Pita Bread: Traditional gyros use pita, but you can use any flatbread. Tortillas or even lettuce wraps are good alternatives if you want to keep it low-carb.
Tzatziki Sauce: Store-bought tzatziki is handy, but making your own is easy! Just mix yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. It’s fresher and tastier!
How Do I Cook the Beef Perfectly?
Cooking the beef just right is key to flavorful gyros! Here’s how you can succeed:
- Make sure your beef is cut into thin slices. This helps it cook quickly and evenly, making it tender.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high so the beef can sear nicely, giving it a great flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re cooking a lot, do it in batches. This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Watch the cooking time—5-7 minutes is usually perfect for thin slices. You want them browned but not overcooked.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a delicious batch of beef gyros ready to enjoy!
Easy Beef Gyros
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Time Needed:
This meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious dinner that you can whip up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the beef is well-coated with these delicious seasonings. This step is crucial for adding flavor to your gyros!
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Warm the Pitas:
While the beef is cooking, you can warm the pita breads. Place them in a dry skillet for a minute or two, or put them in the oven at a low temperature until they’re soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fill!
4. Assemble the Gyros:
Take a warmed pita and place it on a plate. Start layering your ingredients! Begin with a handful of shredded lettuce, then add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion for that fresh crunch.
5. Add the Beef:
Once the veggies are in place, pile the cooked beef on top. Feel free to add more or less according to your preference—it’s your meal!
6. Drizzle with Tzatziki:
Generously drizzle tzatziki sauce over the beef and veggies. This creamy addition enhances all the flavors and gives a refreshing twist to your gyros.
7. Fold and Serve:
Carefully fold the pita to encase all the yummy fillings. Serve your beef gyros immediately, and don’t forget to offer some extra tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make beef gyros!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin and flank steak are great choices, you can also use cuts like ribeye or even ground beef. Just make sure the meat is thinly sliced or crumbled for the best texture in your gyros.
What Can I Substitute for Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki on hand, you can use a simple yogurt-based sauce. Mix plain yogurt with minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped cucumber, and a pinch of salt to create a tasty alternative.
Can I Make These Gyros Ahead of Time?
You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time! Cook the beef and chop the veggies, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, just warm the beef and assemble your gyros.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover gyros, store the filling and pita separately in airtight containers. The beef and veggies will stay fresh in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Warm them up before assembly for the best taste!
