Easy Gyro Meat Recipe with Ground Beef (Viral Doner Kebab–Style)
This easy gyro meat recipe uses ground beef and a viral doner kebab–style method. The meat is rolled thin, baked, then broiled to create crispy, shaved-style edges—no rotisserie required.
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Servings: 10 Sandwiches
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Food processor or blender (for puréed onion)
- Parchment paper
- Rolling Pin
- Sheet pans
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef 90/10
- 1 medium onion fully puréed
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional but recommended
- 1½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 1½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional Authentic Gyro Flavor Boost (for 2 lb meat):Add ¼–½ teaspoon marjoram or thyme and a pinch (⅛ tsp) cinnamon or allspice, adjusting to taste.
For Serving
- Pita flatbread 10
- Tzatziki sauce
- Roasted red onion
- Roasted tomato
- Fresh cucumber sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line two sheet pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, puréed onion, minced garlic, olive oil (if using), oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until combined.
- Divide the meat mixture into four portions. Place one portion on a sheet of parchment paper and top with another sheet.
- Using a rolling pin, roll the meat out thin (about ⅛–¼ inch thick). Remove the top parchment.
- Starting at one end, loosely roll the bottom parchment with the meat inside to form a log. Transfer to the prepared sheet pan. Repeat with remaining portions.
- Add sliced red onion and tomato to the pan. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink (160°F internally).
- Remove from oven, unroll the parchment, and tear the meat into rough pieces. Spread evenly across the pan.
- Broil on high for 3 minutes, watching closely, until the edges are lightly browned and crisp.
- Serve warm in pita with tzatziki, roasted vegetables, and fresh cucumber.
Notes
- The broiler step is essential for doner kebab–style texture.
- Thinner meat creates crispier edges; thicker meat stays juicier.
- Calories are estimated per sandwich.
Nutrition
Calories: 480kcal