Beef gyros are tasty wraps filled with flavorful beef, juicy tomatoes, and fresh veggies. They’re often served with creamy tzatziki sauce, making every bite a delight!
I love how quick and easy these gyros are to make. Just grill the beef, pile on your favorite toppings, and wrap it up—perfect for lunch or dinner with a twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Sirloin: I choose beef sirloin for its tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken or lamb. Ground beef also works in a pinch, just adjust the cooking time.
Pita Breads: Traditional pita bread is great, but if you can’t find any, flatbreads or tortillas make a good substitute. Just note that they might change the texture a bit!
Greek Yogurt: This is key for making tzatziki creamy. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt. They give a nice texture, just check for flavor adjustments with added salt or herbs.
Vegetables: I love using fresh veggies! If cherry tomatoes aren’t in season, you can swap in diced regular tomatoes or even use jarred roasted red peppers. For the cucumber, zucchini slices can add a different twist.
How Do I Make a Creamy Tzatziki Sauce?
The tzatziki sauce is a highlight for beef gyros. Here’s how to make it perfectly creamy and flavorful:
- Start with Greek yogurt as your base; it’s thick and tangy.
- Mix in minced garlic to add a punch of flavor. Let it sit, as this helps mellow the garlic.
- Add olive oil and red wine vinegar for richness and acidity, balancing the creaminess of the yogurt.
- Don’t forget the oregano! It gives a lovely Mediterranean touch.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and it’s done! Refrigerating for 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
How to Make Beef Gyros
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Gyros:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to let the tzatziki sauce chill. You’ll spend around 5-7 minutes cooking the beef, making it a quick and satisfying meal to prepare in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend beautifully!
2. Cook the Beef:
While your tzatziki sauce is chilling, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef sirloin to the hot pan and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and more oregano if you like it extra flavorful!
3. Warm the Pita Breads:
To prepare the pita, you can either warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds on each side or pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until they are soft and easy to fold.
4. Assemble Your Gyros:
Now it’s time to put your gyros together! Start by placing a portion of the cooked beef in the center of each warm pita. Top the beef with a handful of shredded lettuce, a few halved cherry tomatoes, some sliced cucumber, and a small amount of red onion for some nice crunch.
5. Add the Tzatziki Sauce:
Drizzle your chilled tzatziki sauce generously over the top of all those delicious fillings!
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for extra color! Fold the pita over the fillings carefully, and they are ready to be enjoyed. Serve immediately with any extra tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your homemade beef gyros! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Sirloin?
Absolutely! If you prefer ground beef, just cook it in the skillet until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier option.
How Do I Make a Vegetarian Version of Gyros?
For a hearty vegetarian option, substitute the beef with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. You can also use chickpeas or falafel for added protein!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Gyros?
To store leftovers, place the beef and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the tzatziki sauce and pita breads separate to maintain their texture. Reheat the beef mixture before assembling your gyros for a fresh taste!
Can I Freeze the Beef for Later Use?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked beef gyros filling for up to 3 months. Just cool the beef completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave. Enjoy a quick meal later on!
