Name: Classic Biftekia and Chips Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 2 garlic cloves, grated; 1 small red onion, grated; 1 small tomato, grated; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried mint; 1/2 cup dried breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed); 2 tbsp whole milk (or plant-based alternative); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 egg; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; 4–5 medium baking or waxy potatoes; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 tbsp olive oil (for potatoes); 1 garlic clove, grated (for potatoes)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A one-pan dish that’s simple to prepare and clean up.
Combines tender, flavorful patties with crispy roasted potatoes.
Infused with fresh herbs and citrus for a Mediterranean touch.
Easily adaptable with gluten-free or dairy-free swaps.
A versatile dish—serve as is or tuck the patties into buns for burgers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Garlic cloves
Red onion
Tomato
Dried oregano
Dried mint
Dried breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
Whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
Fresh parsley
Egg
Sea salt and black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil
Baking or waxy potatoes
Lemon

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with grated garlic, onion, and tomato. Add oregano, mint, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped parsley, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Slice potatoes into thick wedges. In a roasting tray, toss them with lemon zest, grated garlic, oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of water.
Shape the beef mixture into four patties and nestle them among the potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil.
Cover tray with foil and bake for 10–12 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 30–35 minutes, until potatoes are golden and patties are cooked through.
Scatter with remaining parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of chili flakes to the beef for extra heat.
Top patties with cheese slices during the last few minutes of baking.
Swap beef for lamb or chicken for a different flavor.
Serve patties in buns with tzatziki for a Greek-style burger.
Include a side salad for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
To freeze, store cooked patties (without potatoes) in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

1. What are biftekia?

Biftekia are Greek-style beef patties, similar to burgers but baked with herbs and served alongside potatoes.

2. Can I use lamb instead of beef?

Yes, lamb is a popular substitute and adds a richer flavor.

3. Do I need to peel the potatoes?

It’s optional—keeping the skin on adds texture and nutrients.

4. Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape them a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

5. What can I serve with biftekia and chips?

A fresh Greek salad or tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly.

6. Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

7. Is it possible to cook the patties separately?

Absolutely, but baking them together with the potatoes enhances the flavor.

8. How do I know when the patties are cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F for ground beef.

9. Can I add cheese inside the patties?

Yes, a small cube of feta or halloumi inside each patty makes a delicious surprise.

10. What herbs work best besides oregano and mint?

Thyme, dill, or rosemary can also be used for extra depth.

Conclusion

Classic biftekia and chips is a simple yet impressive Mediterranean dish that transforms the humble burger into a flavorful, oven-baked meal. With lemon, oregano, and tender potatoes all baked together, this Greek favorite is as comforting as it is vibrant. Whether served on its own or tucked into a bun, it’s sure to become a family favorite.