Save Tender, flavorful crockpot beef gyros are slow-cooked with garlic, lemon, and oregano, then served in warm pitas with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki. This easy main course brings together classic Mediterranean flavors in a simple, hands-off meal the whole family will love.
I first made these slow cooker beef gyros for a busy weeknight and they instantly became a favorite. The aroma of garlic and oregano filled our kitchen and everyone was eager to try a bite the moment dinner was ready.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: 2 Tbsp. for cooking the beef and charring pita bread.
- Red onion: 1, sliced for slow cooking and as a gyro topping.
- Beef chuck roast: 3-4 lbs., cut into 2 to 3-inch chunks.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for robust flavor.
- Lemon juice: Juice of 2 lemons, brightens up the beef.
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp. for classic Greek taste.
- Salt: 1 tsp. for seasoning.
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp. for subtle heat.
- Greek-style pitas: 8, warmed or charred.
- Diced red onion: For topping gyros.
- Diced tomatoes: Fresh, for serving.
- Diced cucumber: Adds crunch.
- Shredded lettuce: Crisp topping.
- Tzatziki sauce: Creamy, for drizzling.
Instructions
- Prepare slow cooker:
- Drizzle olive oil into bottom of slow cooker; layer sliced red onions over oil.
- Add beef and seasoning:
- Arrange beef chunks over onions, top with minced garlic, and season with lemon juice, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
- Shred beef:
- Once done, remove lid and use two forks to shred beef inside slow cooker.
- Char pita bread (optional):
- Brush pitas with olive oil and toast in a skillet over medium-high heat, 10-15 seconds per side.
- Assemble gyros:
- Fill warm pitas with shredded beef, diced red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, shredded lettuce, and tzatziki sauce.
Save My kids always enjoy assembling their own gyros with loads of veggies and sauce. It turns dinner into a fun, delicious occasion each time we make this.
Required Tools
Use a slow cooker (4 quart or larger) for cooking and a skillet for charring pitas if desired.
Allergen Information
This dish contains gluten from pitas and dairy from tzatziki. Double-check all packaging if you are unsure about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 354 calories, 23 g total fat, 5 g carbohydrates, and 33 g protein.
Save This slow cooker beef gyro recipe brings comfort and brightness to your table. With simple steps and flavorful results, you will want to make it again and again.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → How do I serve slow cooker beef gyros?
Fill warm Greek-style pita bread with shredded beef, diced veggies, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki for a classic presentation.
- → Can I store leftovers for later?
Store shredded beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months.
- → What toppings go well with beef gyros?
Popular toppings include diced red onion, tomato, cucumber, shredded lettuce, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
- → How do I char pita bread?
Brush both sides with olive oil and cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 10-15 seconds per side.
- → Are there allergens I should consider?
This dish contains gluten from pita bread and dairy from tzatziki. Check labels for sensitivities.
- → Is it possible to substitute the cut of beef?
Yes, beef chuck roast is ideal for tenderness, but brisket or stewing beef can be used too.