Slow Cooker Beef Gyros are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! You just throw tender beef, spices, and a little love into your slow cooker and let it work its magic.
I can’t resist the smell that fills my kitchen while they cook. Serve ‘em in warm pita bread with fresh veggies, and you’re in for a real flavor party! 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Roast: Chuck or brisket works well for this recipe due to their flavor and tenderness. If you want a leaner option, try top round or sirloin, but they may not be as juicy.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, vegetable oil or avocado oil can work too, but they’ll have a milder taste.
Oregano: Dried oregano is essential for that classic gyro flavor. In a pinch, you could use Italian seasoning instead, which has a mix of herbs including oregano.
Tzatziki Sauce: Store-bought tzatziki is convenient. If you prefer homemade, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, dill, and lemon juice. It’s fresher and fun to customize!
Pita or Flatbreads: Pita bread is traditional, but you can switch it up with naan or tortillas if that’s what you have. They’ll still hold all those delicious fillings well!
How Do I Properly Sear Beef for Best Flavor?
Searing beef is a key step that helps develop deep flavors. Heat your skillet to medium-high heat before adding olive oil. The goal is to get a nice brown crust. Remember these tips:
- Pat the beef dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Don’t crowd the pan; you want space for even cooking.
- Let it sear for 3-4 minutes on each side without moving it to achieve a nice crust.
Getting this step right can really elevate the taste of your gyros, so take your time with it!
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Gyros
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs beef roast (chuck or brisket)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
For Serving:
- 4 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- Fresh dill, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking time varies: 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. You’ll enjoy delicious beef gyros with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the beef roast and sear it on all sides for about 3-4 minutes, until it’s nicely browned. This will add great flavor to your gyros!
2. Slow Cooker Setup:
Next, place the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. Lay the seared beef roast on top of the onions for added flavor while it cooks.
3. Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, oregano, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the beef roast to ensure every bite is tasty.
4. Add Broth:
Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker, making sure to go around the meat and not directly pour it on top. This keeps your seasoning intact while providing moisture for the beef to cook.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. When it’s done, the beef should be tender and shred easily with a fork.
6. Shred the Beef:
Once cooked, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it in with the flavorful juices.
7. Prepare the Gyros:
Warm the pita breads or flatbreads in your oven or on a skillet. Assemble your gyros by layering the shredded beef on the bread, followed by tzatziki sauce, lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and red onion.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh dill on top for extra flavor. Wrap up your filled pita and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade and delicious Slow Cooker Beef Gyros!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While chuck or brisket are ideal for shredding, you can use other cuts like round roast or flank steak. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut’s thickness and fat content, so check for tenderness before shredding.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even vegetable broth. If you want a richer flavor, consider using a mixture of water and soy sauce, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the shredded beef gyros for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make My Own Tzatziki Sauce?
Absolutely! To make homemade tzatziki, combine 1 cup of plain yogurt, 1 grated cucumber (squeezed dry), 1 clove minced garlic, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and a bit of salt. Mix well and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors!
