When it comes to delicious and satisfying street food, gyros are always a winner. The classic combination of juicy meat, crispy pita bread, and creamy tzatziki sauce has captured the hearts of people around the world. But why stick to just one traditional recipe when you can try out 17 other mouthwatering variations? From spicy lamb gyro with harissa and feta to veggie-packed gyros with grilled halloumi, there’s a flavor combination on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and new, these gyro recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make, so you can impress your friends and family without breaking a sweat.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of gyros and explore some amazing recipe ideas that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.
Classic Greek Gyro with Tzatziki Sauce
Savor the flavors of Greece with this classic gyro recipe, served with a refreshing side of creamy tzatziki sauce. This flavorful combination is perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef gyro meat
– 4-6 pita breads
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce ingredients (see below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture onto the gyro meat and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating for a few minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by slicing meat thinly and serving on pita bread with tzatziki sauce.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Gyro with Homemade Pita Bread
A classic street food from Greece, lamb gyro sandwiches are a flavorful and satisfying treat. This recipe combines tender lamb with crispy homemade pita bread for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
For the lamb:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the pita bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix lamb ingredients and shape into small patties.
2. Grill or cook lamb patties for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare pita bread dough by combining flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and lukewarm water. Knead for 5 minutes.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten slightly to form pita shape.
5. Bake pita bread for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble gyros by placing cooked lamb on toasted pita bread, topped with tomato, onion, cucumber, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Gyro with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Transform your taste buds with this mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, crispy pita, and creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic yogurt sauce (see below)
– Tzatziki toppings: diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble gyros with grilled chicken, garlic yogurt sauce, and desired toppings.
Garlic Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Lamb Gyro with Fresh Herbs
This hearty gyro combines the rich flavors of beef and lamb with a burst of freshness from herbs, all wrapped up in a crispy pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
– 1/2 lb lamb, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add beef and lamb; toss to coat.
3. Grill meat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating on grill for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by placing a few slices of each meat onto warmed pita bread, followed by a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
6. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Gyro with Grilled Halloumi
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional gyros, this recipe combines the crispy, savory goodness of grilled halloumi cheese with fresh and vibrant vegetarian ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound halloumi cheese
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice halloumi cheese into 1/4-inch thick pieces and brush with olive oil.
3. Grill halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, toast pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating on grill or in oven for a few minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by spreading mixed greens, red bell peppers, olives, garlic, and lemon juice onto toasted pita breads. Top with grilled halloumi cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Gyro with Harissa and Feta
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this spicy gyro recipe, featuring harissa and crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef gyro meat (or a combination of both)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, harissa paste, and paprika.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the gyro meat.
4. Grill the meat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them on the grill for a few minutes.
6. Assemble the gyros by slicing the grilled meat into thin strips and placing it onto the pita breads. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Bowl with Quinoa and Cucumber Salad
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece with the nutrition of quinoa, topped with a refreshing cucumber salad and juicy gyro meat. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef (or a combination of both)
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 pita breads
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb or beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add red onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble gyro bowls with quinoa, meat mixture, and sliced cucumber.
6. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gyro Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
Elevate your taco game with the bold flavors of Greece and Mexico. This recipe combines juicy lamb gyro meat, crispy pita bread, and tangy pickled red onions for a unique and delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 pita breads
– Pickled Red Onions (see below for recipe)
– Tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt (optional)
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, olive oil, chopped onion, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small patties and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and baking at 350°F for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by placing gyro meat onto warmed pita breads and topping with pickled red onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Gyro Meat with Lemon Rice
Savor the flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering slow-cooked gyro meat, perfectly paired with a tangy and aromatic lemon rice. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, combine lamb, onion, garlic, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Prepare the lemon rice by mixing cooked rice with lemon juice and olive oil in a bowl.
4. Serve the slow-cooked gyro meat over the lemon rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle
Bring a taste of Greece to your pizza night with this unique and flavorful Gyro Pizza topped with juicy lamb gyro meat, creamy tzatziki sauce, and crispy feta cheese. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 1/2 cup lamb gyro meat (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade, see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the gyro meat evenly over the pizza crust.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tzatziki Sauce Recipe (optional):
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Gyro Stuffed Peppers with Feta Cheese
Elevate your pepper game with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. By combining juicy gyros, tangy feta cheese, and crunchy bell peppers, you’ll create a dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or combination of both)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb or beef mixture over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, followed by a sprinkle of feta cheese and paprika.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gyro Burger with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this creative twist on a classic, featuring juicy lamb gyro meat and creamy garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta cheese (optional)
Garlic Aioli:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill gyro burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns.
6. Assemble by spreading Garlic Aioli on toasted bun, followed by a gyro burger patty, and finishing with lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gyro Wraps with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your wrap game with this simple and delicious recipe that combines juicy gyro meat with roasted vegetables. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gyro meat (lamb or beef)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley, tzatziki sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Grill or cook the gyro meat according to package instructions.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by slicing the roasted vegetables, adding gyro meat, and topping with optional ingredients.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gyro Nachos with Melted Cheese
Elevate your snack game with this unique fusion of gyro and nachos, featuring melted cheese and savory meat. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious gathering or as a fun twist on game day snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 package tortilla chips (your favorite brand)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is fully combined and heated through.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon the gyro meat mixture over the chips, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Optional: Add your favorite toppings before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gyro Meatballs with Pita Chips
Get ready to devour a flavorful and satisfying snack! These Gyro Meatballs with Pita Chips are the perfect combination of savory spices, tender meat, and crunchy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12-15 pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with pita chips. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gyro Salad with Kalamata Olives
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional salads, this Gyro Salad with Kalamata Olives combines the savory taste of Greek cuisine with a healthy dose of greens.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked gyro meat (lamb or beef), thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, gyro meat, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Kalamata olives if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Gyro Flatbread with Hummus Spread
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful flatbread recipe, featuring creamy hummus and savory gyro-inspired toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of naan or pita bread (6-8 inches)
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the flatbread with olive oil and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
3. Spread the hummus evenly over the warm flatbread.
4. Top with feta cheese, olives, and parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cut into wedges and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gyro Kebabs with Yogurt Dipping Sauce
Experience the flavors of Greece with these easy-to-make gyro kebabs and creamy yogurt dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef or lamb, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Yogurt Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add sliced meat; mix well.
3. Thread 4-5 pieces of meat onto each pita bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Grill kebabs for 6-8 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare Yogurt Dipping Sauce (recipe below).
Yogurt Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced clove garlic
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes grill time)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 flavorful gyro recipes! From classic Greek gyros with tzatziki sauce to innovative twists like gyro tacos and stuffed peppers, there’s something for every occasion. Try lamb gyros with homemade pita bread or beef and lamb gyros with fresh herbs for a hearty option. Or, go vegetarian with grilled halloumi or spicy with harissa and feta. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
