Print

Gyro with Meat: A Flavor-Packed Greek Classic You Can Make at Home

Print Recipe

Gyro with meat is a timeless street food favorite that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your plate. Wrapped in warm pita and filled with juicy, seasoned meat, crisp vegetables, and a tangy yogurt-based sauce, this handheld meal is both satisfying and surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even parties, gyros are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to Greece or simply craving something bold and flavorful, this homemade gyro recipe delivers authenticity and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the meat:

  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef (or a mix of both)

  • 1 small onion, grated and juice squeezed out

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the tzatziki sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt

  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry

  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For serving:

  • 4–6 pita or flatbreads

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 cup shredded lettuce

  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

  • Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion (with liquid squeezed out), garlic, oregano, cumin, thyme, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

  • Shape and cook the meat:

    • Oven method: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Press the meat mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Slice thinly.

    • Skillet method: Form the meat into small patties or logs and cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, until fully cooked and browned.

  • Make the tzatziki sauce: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

  • Warm the pita: Heat pita or flatbreads in a dry skillet for 1–2 minutes per side or wrap in foil and warm in the oven.

  • Assemble the gyros: Spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce on each pita. Add sliced gyro meat, cherry tomatoes, red onions, lettuce, and feta (if using). Top with more sauce and herbs.

  • Wrap and serve: Fold the pita around the filling or serve open-faced. Enjoy immediately.

Find it online: https://cookingworthy.com/gyro-with-meat-a-flavor-packed-greek-classic-you-can-make-at-home/