Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the bold flavors of Greece! When it comes to hearty, comforting dishes, few cuisines can rival the rich traditions of Greek cooking. And at the heart of it all are the magnificent meats – particularly beef. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 flavor-packed Greek beef recipes that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed hills of the Mediterranean.
From classic souvlaki and moussaka to innovative twists like stuffed peppers and meatloaf, these mouthwatering dishes showcase the versatility and depth of Greek cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive collection of authentic Greek beef recipes.
Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers
These skewers are a classic Greek dish that combines tender beef, juicy vegetables, and a tangy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party platter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Pita bread and fresh parsley for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef, bell peppers, onion, and garlic onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce and pita bread and parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Traditional Greek Beef Moussaka
Moussaka, a classic Greek dish, layers tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy bechamel in a satisfying casserole. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a pan with olive oil until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, heat tomato puree over medium heat.
5. Assemble the moussaka by layering cooked beef mixture, sliced potatoes, and tomato sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with grated cheese and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Beef Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful Greek-inspired delight with this simple recipe. Tender beef, aromatic spices, and creamy feta cheese come together to create a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of feta cheese.
6. Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Greek Beef and Orzo Casserole
This casserole combines the rich flavors of Greece with the comfort of a classic beef dish. Ground beef, orzo pasta, feta cheese, and kalamata olives come together in a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked orzo, beef mixture, feta cheese, and olives in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Beef Gyros with Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering recipe, featuring tender beef gyros served with a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as sirloin or round), thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: tomato, red onion, cucumber, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook beef for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble gyros by slicing beef into thin strips and placing on warmed pita bread. Top with tzatziki sauce and optional toppings.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Greek Beef Keftedes (Meatballs)
A classic Greek recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. These flavorful meatballs are made with ground beef, herbs, and spices, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top of each meatball.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek Beef Spanakopita Pie
Combine the flavors of Greece with this hearty beef and spinach pie, perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add spinach, feta, and Parmesan; stir until well combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon beef mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges. Fold other half over filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush top with olive oil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Beef and Eggplant Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, eggplant, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the eggplant slices to the pot and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and oregano.
6. Return the beef to the pot, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 1-2 hours or until the beef is tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Greek Beef Saganaki with Tomatoes
This hearty dish combines tender beef strips with rich tomato sauce, served over a bed of creamy Greek yogurt and topped with crispy feta cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked beef to combine with the tomato sauce.
6. Serve the beef mixture over a bed of Greek yogurt, topped with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Beef Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
These tender and flavorful dolmades are a classic Greek appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. With their sweet and savory filling wrapped in juicy grape leaves, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the dolma to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Place dolmades seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with lemon juice (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until grape leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Beef and Feta Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with the bold flavors of Greece! This dish combines tender beef, creamy feta cheese, and savory herbs to create a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a log.
4. Place the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Beef Pastitsio Bake
A classic Greek dish gets a delicious twist with this comforting beef-filled pasta bake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (white sauce)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, combine cooked macaroni and bechamel sauce; stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of the pasta mixture.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley; repeat the layers one more time.
7. Top with remaining beef mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Beef and Spinach Phyllo Rolls
A delicious and savory snack or appetizer that combines the flavors of Greece with the convenience of phyllo dough. These rolls are perfect for parties, game days, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 4 equal pieces.
7. Place a spoonful of beef mixture onto the center of each piece, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
8. Fold in edges to form a triangle, then roll up tightly.
9. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Beef Kapama with Cinnamon
A hearty and aromatic beef stew that combines the classic Greek flavors of lamb or beef with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the beef broth, red wine vinegar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Greek Beef and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices for a flavorful and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, oregano, and cumin; cook 1 minute.
3. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Beef Youvetsi (Baked Orzo)
A hearty and flavorful Greek dish that combines tender beef with creamy orzo, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked orzo with the beef mixture.
7. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Beef and Tomato Kokkinisto
A hearty and flavorful Greek-inspired stew that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chicken broth, browned beef, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Serve: With crusty bread or over rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Greek Beef and Artichoke Stew
This classic Greek stew is a perfect blend of tender beef, artichokes, and aromatic spices. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the artichoke hearts, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Greek Beef Souvlaki Salad Bowl
Greek Beef Souvlaki Salad Bowl Recipe: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional souvlaki, this salad bowl combines the bold flavors of Greece with the convenience of a one-bowl meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef skewers (souvlaki), cooked
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red onion slices
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons Greek vinaigrette dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion slices.
2. Add the cooked beef skewers on top of the salad.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the beef.
4. Drizzle the Greek vinaigrette dressing and olive oil over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on cooking time for souvlaki)
Greek Beef and Lemon Avgolemono Soup
This hearty soup combines tender beef, bright citrus flavors, and creamy egg richness to create a warm and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, white wine, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and a pinch of salt. Slowly pour the hot soup into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
5. Return the mixture to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the authentic flavors of Greece with these 20 delicious beef recipes! From classic souvlaki skewers and moussaka to stuffed peppers, casserole, and meatballs, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy Greek-inspired dishes like gyros with tzatziki sauce, spanakopita pie, eggplant stew, and dolmades filled with grape leaves. Try innovative recipes like beef and feta meatloaf, pastitsio bake, spinach phyllo rolls, and cinnamon-spiced kapama. These mouthwatering recipes will transport you to the Mediterranean coast, where flavors blend together in perfect harmony.
