Name: Beef Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce (Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Friendly) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491625H14M38S
Total time: PT-491625H14M38S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 pounds beef chuck roast, sliced into thin quarter inch strips; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3 Tablespoons olive oil; 2 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 5 soft pitas; 5 lettuce leaves; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 of a red onion, thinly sliced; 1 English cucumber, sliced and halved; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 clove garlic, finely minced; 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon dried dill weed; salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 45 reviews

If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, this Beef Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce (Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Friendly) Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender strips of beef chuck roast, perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked or pressure-cooked to juicy perfection, come together with crisp veggies and a cool, creamy tzatziki that you whip up in minutes. It is a delicious celebration of Mediterranean flavors that’s easy to prepare and joyful to eat, whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a slow cooker filled with dark brown, cooked strips of meat sitting in a rich, thick brown sauce. The meat has a slightly shiny, tender texture, and the sauce covers the bottom of the cooker, surrounding the meat. The slow cooker itself is black and round, with a shiny surface, and the inside is filled mostly with the meat and sauce mixture. The photo is taken from above, focusing on the juicy meat pieces and sauce, with a white marbled surface visible under the slow cooker. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things beautifully simple but relies on a thoughtful blend of ingredients that each add something special. From the tender beef and fragrant herbs to the fresh crunch of veggies and tangy tzatziki sauce, every element plays a crucial part in making these gyros unforgettable.

Beef chuck roast: Sliced thin for quicker cooking and to soak up all the delicious spices perfectly.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essentials that bring out the natural richness of the beef.
Olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle fruitiness to the marinade and sauce.
Garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that’s key to Mediterranean dishes.
Dried oregano: A classic herb that gives the meat its unmistakable Greek gyros character.
Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a gentle smoky undertone.
Dried thyme: Provides a delicate herbal note to enrich the beef’s flavor.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and sauce, lending a fresh, zesty edge.
Soft pitas: The perfect vessel for holding all of the tender, savory fillings.
Lettuce leaves: Add a refreshing crunch and balance the richness of the beef.
Cherry tomatoes: Burst with juiciness and bring a pop of color to every bite.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a mild, sharp contrast that never overpowers.
English cucumber: Cool and crisp slices that complement the tangy tzatziki sauce beautifully.
Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base of the tzatziki sauce, offering richness without heaviness.
Garlic clove: Finely minced to give the tzatziki its signature punch.
Red wine vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the creamy yogurt.
Dried dill weed: Brings a light, fragrant herbal note to the sauce.

How to Make Beef Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce (Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Friendly) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

Start your cooking adventure by mixing together all the ingredients for the tzatziki sauce. Greek yogurt, finely minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper come together to create a cooling, flavorful sauce. Pop it in the fridge and let those flavors mingle while you prepare your beef. Having this sauce ready early really makes assembling your gyros a breeze!

Step 2: Slice and Season the Beef

Next, prepare the beef chuck roast by removing any large fat pieces and slicing it into thin, quarter-inch strips. Thin strips help the meat cook more evenly and soak up all the wonderful spices. In a small bowl, combine olive oil with garlic powder, oregano, cumin, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper — this seasoning blend is what gives the beef that unmistakable gyro flavor.

Step 3: Slow Cooker Method

Transfer the sliced beef to the bottom of your slow cooker, then pour the seasoning mixture on top, tossing gently to coat. Cover it and cook on low for 6 hours, letting the beef slowly become tender and full of flavor. The slow cooker is perfect for a hands-off approach, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas that promise an amazing meal ahead.

Step 4: Instant Pot Method

If you’re short on time, the Instant Pot option is your shortcut to gyro happiness. Again, place the seasoned beef strips into the pot, but this time add 1/3 cup of water to help create the perfect steaming environment. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before carefully opening. The meat will be tender, juicy, and ready in a fraction of the time.

Step 5: Assemble Your Gyros

Warm the soft pitas gently so they’re soft and pliable. Layer a crisp lettuce leaf onto each pita, followed by generous spoonfuls of tender beef, bright cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber slices, and thin red onion rings. Finally, dollop your homemade tzatziki sauce on top. Rolling it up or folding it over is your call — either way, you’ll have a perfect, handheld meal bursting with flavor and freshness.

How to Serve Beef Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce (Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Friendly) Recipe

A round, light brown pita bread lies flat on crumpled parchment paper with a slightly toasted texture and dark spots. On top, there's a first layer of green leafy lettuce with a fresh, soft texture. Next, slices of dark green cucumber are placed over the lettuce, followed by thin, curved rings of purple-red onion scattered across. Bright red, halved cherry tomatoes with a juicy appearance are spread around the pita, adding vibrant color. Creamy white sauce lightly covers parts of the vegetables, adding a smooth texture. The whole dish is presented on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your gyros further with a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or oregano for a burst of herbal aroma. A lemon wedge on the side is always welcome for those who want to add extra brightness. Slices of feta cheese can also elevate the dish, offering a salty, creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

A crisp Greek salad with olives and tomatoes complements the gyros beautifully, while a side of crispy roasted potatoes or homemade pita chips adds some delightful crunch. For a lighter option, a simple bowl of tabbouleh or even grilled vegetables can round out the meal without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Beef Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce (Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Friendly) Recipe on a platter with all the toppings arranged separately so everyone can customize their own. For a festive gathering, consider making gyros sliders by cutting pita into smaller rounds — they’re perfect for parties! Wrapping each gyro in parchment paper also makes them portable and mess-free.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover beef, vegetables, and tzatziki sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh. Keeping components separate helps maintain texture and avoids sogginess.

Freezing

The cooked beef strips freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 3 months. The tzatziki sauce does not freeze well, so make a fresh batch when you thaw your beef.

Reheating

Reheat the beef gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist. Assemble your gyro fresh with crisp veggies and refrigerated tzatziki for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or skirt steak sliced thin. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it necessary to make the tzatziki sauce from scratch?

Fresh tzatziki really makes this recipe shine, but if you’re in a time crunch, store-bought tzatziki works perfectly. Just look for one with simple, fresh ingredients for the best taste.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! You can cook the seasoned beef strips in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven over low heat, adding a bit of water and covering until tender. It will require more attention and slightly longer cooking time.

How do I make the gyros spicier if I like heat?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mix before cooking. You can also include sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce when assembling your gyro.

What bread alternatives can I use if I don’t have pita?

Flatbreads, naan, or even wraps work wonderfully as substitutes. Just warm them up slightly before assembling for that soft, foldable texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sharing Beef Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce (Slow Cooker and Instant Pot Friendly) Recipe with loved ones — from the comforting aroma to the vibrant flavors bursting in every bite. Whether you pick the slow cooker or the Instant Pot method, the results are equally delicious and satisfying. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a little Mediterranean magic on your table, any day of the week!