Name: Hamburger, Onion & Pepper Gyros
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef; 3 teaspoons olive oil; 1 cup chopped green bell pepper; 1 cup chopped red bell pepper; 1 cup chopped onion; 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) - mild or hot, your preference; 4 pita breads; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup crumbled bleu cheese (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Hamburger, Onion & Pepper Gyros

Looking for a delicious and weeknight-friendly twist on the classic Greek gyros? This recipe uses readily available ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and flavorful tomatoes with green chilies to create a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.

Packed in warm pita pockets, these gyros are perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a fun game-day appetizer. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable! Prefer a spicier kick? Opt for the hot diced tomatoes with green chilies. Want to keep it mild? The classic mild version works perfectly. Don’t have lamb on hand? Ground beef makes a fantastic substitute while still delivering incredible flavor.

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal prep work, it’s a great option for beginner cooks or those looking for an easy weeknight win. So ditch the takeout menu and try this delicious homemade gyros recipe instead!

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground lamb for the ground beef for a more traditional gyros flavor. Ground chicken or turkey would also work if you prefer a lighter option.

I don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies. What can I use instead?
No problem! You can use a can of diced tomatoes and add a diced fresh jalapeno pepper for some heat, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

How can I add more flavor to the meat?
You can add a sprinkle of dried oregano, thyme, or even a gyro spice blend to the ground beef mixture for a more traditional gyros taste.

How can I make the gyros even faster?
To save time on chopping, you can purchase pre-chopped peppers and onions from the grocery store.

What other toppings can I add?
Get creative! Chopped lettuce, crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, or a drizzle of tzatziki sauce would all be delicious additions.

What sides go well with these gyros?
These gyros pair well with classic Greek sides like cucumber salad, potato salad, or french fries. You could also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

What you need to make Hamburger, Onion & Pepper Gyros:

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef

3 teaspoons olive oil

1 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 cup chopped onion

1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel) – mild or hot, your preference

4 pita breads

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup crumbled bleu cheese (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it:

Warm the pitas: Microwave the pita breads for a few seconds until they are soft and warm.

Cook the beef and vegetables: In a large skillet, crumble the ground beef with your hands. Add the olive oil, chopped peppers, and onions. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened.

Simmer with tomatoes: Drain any excess grease from the pan. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assemble the gyros: Lay out four sheets of aluminum foil. Place a warmed pita bread on each sheet.

Fill and fold: Divide the meat mixture evenly among the pitas. Top with desired amount of sour cream and bleu cheese crumbles (if using). Fold the bottom of the pita bread up over the filling, then fold in the sides to create a closed package.

Serve: Enjoy your delicious homemade gyros immediately!

Tips:

You can substitute ground lamb for the ground beef for a more traditional gyros flavor.

If you don’t have Rotel, you can use a can of diced tomatoes and add a diced fresh jalapeno pepper for some heat.

For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add an extra cup of chopped vegetables.

Add a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme to the meat mixture for additional flavor.

Latest Reviews:

This recipe was a lifesaver! So easy to throw together on a busy weeknight. Loved the option to use ground beef instead of lamb. The whole family devoured them! 5 stars! Sonia V.

These gyros were bursting with flavor! The peppers and onions added a nice sweetness to the savory beef. The diced tomatoes with chilies gave it a perfect kick. Definitely will be making these again! Claire F.

Such a fun twist on traditional gyros! My vegetarian friends loved the option to ditch the meat and add extra veggies. Super filling and perfect for a casual get-together. Highly recommend! Andy T.

Printable Recipe:

Yield: 4