Homemade Greek Gyro Meat: A Classic Mediterranean Recipe

Traditional Gyro Meat: A Homemade Greek Favorite

Ready to transform dinner into a Mediterranean feast? This gyro recipe brings tender, flavorful meat to your table—just like your favorite gyro stand.

This Greek/Lebanese-style gyro meat is delicious sliced and served with fresh pita bread, tzatziki, and tomatoes for satisfying homemade gyros.

Ingredients for Authentic Gyro Meat

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ medium onion, cut into chunks
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Gyro

1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse the onion and garlic until finely chopped.
3. Transfer to a large bowl. Add lamb, beef, oregano, cumin, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix thoroughly with your hands until ingredients are well combined into a smooth paste.
5. Shape meat into a tight loaf or log on a lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest 10 minutes, then slice thinly with a sharp knife.
8. Serve hot in warm pita with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, red onion, and fresh parsley.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Gyros

• Blend well: The smoother the meat mixture, the easier it slices.
• Low and slow: Baking at a lower temperature keeps meat juicy.
• Rest before slicing: Locks in flavors and makes neat cuts.

Serving Suggestions & Storage

• Pair with Greek salad, hummus, or spanakopita for a full Mediterranean spread.
• Store leftover slices in an airtight container up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 258 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Fat: 17 g (Saturated Fat: 7 g)
• Cholesterol: 84 mg
• Sodium: 396 mg
• Sugar: 0 g

Enjoy the rich aromas and flavors of a classic gyro at home—this gyro meat will become a fast favorite!

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes: Traditional Gyro Meat