Beef Gyros (Slow Cooker or Instant Pot)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Gyros made at home are a game-changer! This recipe produces incredibly tender and flavorful beef, paired with the freshness of vegetables and the tangy goodness of homemade tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re using a slow cooker or Instant Pot, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, and it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Served in soft pitas, the combination of spiced beef and fresh toppings is unbeatable. You’ll love the Mediterranean flavors and how simple it is to make a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients

• For the Beef Gyros:

  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast, sliced into thin 1/4-inch strips

  • 3/4 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 2 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• For Serving:

  • 5 soft pitas

  • 5 lettuce leaves

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 English cucumber, sliced and halved

• For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar

  • 1 tsp dried dill weed

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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

Directions

Tzatziki Sauce:

1. Combine all the tzatziki sauce ingredients in a bowl and stir well.

2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Slow Cooker Method:

1. Trim any large pieces of fat from the beef roast and slice the meat into thin, 1/4-inch strips. Place it in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef.

3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or until the beef is tender.

4. Serve by adding a lettuce leaf to a pita, then top with the cooked beef, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and tzatziki sauce.

Instant Pot Method:

1. Trim any large pieces of fat from the beef roast and slice the meat into thin, 1/4-inch strips. Place the beef in the Instant Pot.

2. In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup water, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef.

3. Cover the Instant Pot and turn the valve to “sealing.” Press “manual” or high pressure, and set the timer for 30 minutes.

4. After the timer beeps, allow the Instant Pot to rest for 15 minutes before releasing the pressure.

5. Remove the lid, taste the beef, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

6. Serve by adding a lettuce leaf to a pita and topping with the cooked beef, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and tzatziki sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 4 hours (slow cooker) or 1 hour (Instant Pot)

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Gyros: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef for a spicy kick.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, or try using marinated tofu.

• Different Sauces: Experiment with other Mediterranean sauces like hummus or a tahini-based dressing instead of tzatziki.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover beef and tzatziki sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the beef in a skillet over low heat, or use the microwave until warmed through. Serve again with fresh pitas and veggies.

FAQs

1. Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts such as flank steak or sirloin. However, chuck roast is best for slow cooking due to its tenderness.

2. How can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

You can make the tzatziki sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze the beef for gyros?

Yes, you can freeze the beef before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, slice the beef and marinate it in the gyro spices, then freeze. Thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking.

4. Can I make gyros with lamb instead of beef?

Absolutely! Lamb is often used in traditional gyros, and it works perfectly with the same spices and method.

5. How do I store the cooked beef leftovers?

Store the leftover cooked beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

6. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! For added heat, you can include hot paprika, red pepper flakes, or fresh chopped green chilies in the beef mixture or tzatziki sauce.

7. Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?

You can use store-bought tzatziki sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade tzatziki adds a fresh, authentic flavor that elevates the dish.

8. Can I make this dish on the stovetop?

You can adapt the recipe for stovetop cooking by searing the beef and then simmering it with the spices and water until the beef is tender. This will take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

9. What else can I serve with these gyros?

Gyros are delicious served with sides like Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or grilled vegetables.

10. How do I keep the pita warm?

Wrap the pitas in aluminum foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or warm them on a skillet for a few seconds on each side.

Conclusion

These Beef Gyros are a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that brings the delicious tastes of Greece right to your home. Whether you choose the slow cooker or Instant Pot method, this recipe guarantees tender beef seasoned with Mediterranean spices. Top it off with fresh vegetables and homemade tzatziki sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will surely become a favorite!

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