Mediterranean Ground Beef Gyro Bowls
These Mediterranean gyro bowls are a delicious twist on the classic Greek gyro — featuring juicy, seasoned ground beef, crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, and tangy tzatziki over a base of rice, couscous, or quinoa. They’re hearty, balanced, and perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
For the Ground Beef:
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp ground coriander
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Bowl Base:
2 cups cooked basmati rice, brown rice, or quinoa
(Optional: lightly toss with olive oil and lemon juice for flavor)
For the Toppings:
1 cup chopped cucumber
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
For the Creamy Tzatziki Sauce:
¾ cup Greek yogurt
½ small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 garlic clove, finely minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki
In a bowl, combine yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
Stir well and refrigerate while preparing the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in cumin, oregano, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowls
Divide rice or quinoa among serving bowls.
Add a scoop of the seasoned ground beef.
Top with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta.
Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra squeeze of lemon juice.
Tips
Add roasted chickpeas or grilled vegetables for extra texture and nutrition.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
For spice, sprinkle a little cayenne or chili flakes into the beef.
Make it wrap-style by filling pita bread instead of a bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Store each component separately. The beef and rice can be reheated, while the veggies and tzatziki are best served cold.
Q: What can I use instead of beef?
Ground lamb, turkey, or even lentils work beautifully.
Q: Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Yes — but homemade has fresher flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 34 g
Fat: 21 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 5 g