Greek Beef Gyro Bowl with Spicy Lemon Garlic Feta
Greek Beef Gyro Bowl with Spicy Lemon Garlic Feta is a hearty Mediterranean inspired meal that combines savory spiced meat, refreshing vegetables, and a creamy tangy sauce packed with bold flavor. The beef gyro mixture is seasoned with warm spices like cumin, coriander, oregano, and paprika, then cooked until juicy and slightly crisp around the edges. A cooling yet spicy feta yogurt sauce brings brightness from lemon and herbs while adding a rich creamy finish. Served over a base of quinoa, lemon rice, or couscous, the bowl becomes a balanced meal filled with protein, fiber, and fresh textures. Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and greens complete the dish, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. This recipe delivers the classic taste of Greek gyros in an easy to assemble bowl format that is both satisfying and customizable.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Ingredients
For the Beef Gyro Meat
1 lb ground beef (or half beef and half lamb)
1/4 cup minced onion
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 egg
For the Spicy Lemon Garlic Feta Sauce
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
Pinch cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper (optional)
For the Bowl Base and Toppings
2 cups cooked quinoa, lemon rice, or couscous
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup diced cucumbers
1/2 cup sliced red onion
2 cups mixed greens or lettuce
1/3 cup olives
1–2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
In a bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, spices, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix gently until combined.
Shape mixture into small patties or crumble style pieces for easier cooking.
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook meat until browned and fully cooked, about 8–10 minutes.
In another bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, zest, garlic, herbs, feta, and cayenne to make the sauce. Chill until serving.
Prepare quinoa, lemon rice, or couscous according to package instructions.
Taste the sauce and adjust lemon, salt, or spice level if needed.
Wash and chop tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for fresh toppings.
Arrange the cooked base in serving bowls.
Top with cooked gyro meat, vegetables, olives, and mixed greens.
Drizzle with spicy lemon garlic feta sauce and a touch of olive oil before serving.
Tips
Do not overmix meat to keep texture tender.
Use a hot skillet to create slight caramelization on the meat.
Drain cucumber well so the sauce stays thick.
Let meat rest briefly before serving for better juiciness.
Adjust spice level with more or less cayenne.
Add lemon zest gradually to avoid overpowering flavor.
Use fresh herbs for brighter sauce taste.
Cook grains in broth instead of water for extra flavor.
Slice onions thinly for a milder bite.
Prepare toppings in advance for easy bowl assembly.
Variations
Swap beef with ground chicken or turkey.
Make vegetarian using falafel or roasted chickpeas.
Replace feta sauce with classic tzatziki.
Add roasted eggplant or zucchini for more vegetables.
Use cauliflower rice for a low carb version.
Add avocado slices for creamy texture.
Turn into a wrap using pita bread.
Add spicy harissa or chili oil for extra heat.
Include pickled onions or cucumbers for tanginess.
Use brown rice or farro for a heartier grain base.
Q&A
Can I bake the gyro meat?
Yes, bake small patties at 200°C for about 15–18 minutes.
How long does the sauce last?
Up to three days refrigerated.
Can I prepare bowls ahead?
Yes, store components separately and assemble fresh.
Is lamb necessary?
No, beef alone works perfectly.
Can I make it dairy free?
Use dairy free yogurt and omit feta.
How do I reduce sodium?
Use less feta and olives.
What herbs work best?
Dill, mint, or parsley are excellent options.
Can I grill the meat?
Yes, shape into skewers or patties for grilling.
Is this recipe spicy?
Only mildly, depending on added chili.
What pairs well with this bowl?
Lemon wedges, flatbread, or roasted potatoes.
Nutrition
(Approx. per serving)
Calories: 520–560
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: Moderate due to feta and olives
Conclusion
Greek Beef Gyro Bowl with Spicy Lemon Garlic Feta is a flavorful, satisfying meal filled with bold Mediterranean spices, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings. The combination of juicy gyro style meat, refreshing vegetables, and zesty feta yogurt creates a balanced bowl that feels both comforting and vibrant. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this dish works well for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual entertaining. With its rich flavor, colorful presentation, and wholesome ingredients, it is a delicious way to enjoy classic gyro flavors in a modern bowl format.