American Gyros is a delicious twist on the classic Greek dish, bringing together the best of both worlds with succulent, well-seasoned meat, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love experimenting with flavors and enjoy hearty, satisfying meals.
Traditionally, gyros are made with pork or lamb, but the American version often features beef or chicken, marinated to perfection. The meat is typically cooked on a rotisserie, but for home cooks, a grill or skillet works just as well. The meat is then sliced thin and served on warm pita bread, topped with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and lettuce, and finished with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
The key to a great gyro is the marinade. A combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and other spices infuses the meat with incredible flavor. Allowing the meat to marinate for several hours, or even overnight, ensures that every bite is juicy and delicious.
The tzatziki sauce is another essential component of this dish. Made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill, this sauce adds a refreshing, tangy kick that complements the savory meat perfectly. Some variations might include a touch of mint or a splash of vinegar for added complexity.
American Gyros are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add different vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, or switch up the sauce by adding a bit of spicy harissa or a cooling ranch dressing. The pita can be swapped for a low-carb wrap or served as a salad for a lighter option.
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s packed with protein from the meat and yogurt, fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the olive oil. It’s a balanced meal that satisfies without weighing you down.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual lunch, or a gathering with friends, American Gyros are sure to be a hit. They bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table, with the familiar comfort of American flavors. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a culinary adventure with this easy-to-follow recipe.

American Gyros
Description
Discover the delightful fusion of Greek and American cuisine with our easy-to-make American Gyros recipe. This beginner-friendly guide brings together tender, flavorful meat, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sauce to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for any meal. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with an American twist, right in your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients
Tzatziki sauce
Fillings
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinade
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the sliced meat to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Tzatziki Sauce
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, and salt.
Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking the Meat
Preheat a skillet or grill to medium-high heat (about 180°C).
Cook the marinated meat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
Combining the Gyros
Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or oven.
Place a generous amount of cooked meat on each pita.
Top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion.
Drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
Fold the pita around the fillings and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 80mg27%
- Sodium 750mg32%
- Potassium 500mg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 25g50%
- Vitamin A 800 IU
- Vitamin C 15 mg
- Calcium 150 mg
- Iron 4 mg
- Vitamin E 2 IU
- Vitamin K 20 mcg
- Thiamin 0.3 mg
- Riboflavin 0.4 mg
- Niacin 6 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.6 mg
- Folate 50 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1 mcg
- Biotin 2 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1 mg
- Phosphorus 200 mg
- Iodine 30 mcg
- Magnesium 25 mg
- Zinc 2 mg
- Selenium 20 mcg
- Copper 0.2 mg
- Manganese 0.3 mg
- Chromium 10 mcg
- Molybdenum 10 mcg
- Chloride 250 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Marinate the meat overnight for the best flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for the tzatziki sauce for a more vibrant taste.
- You can substitute beef or chicken with lamb for a more traditional gyro.
Tips & Tricks
- Slice the meat thinly for quicker cooking and better flavor absorption.
- Make extra tzatziki sauce; it keeps well in the fridge and can be used as a dip or dressing.
- Warm the pita bread before assembling to prevent it from breaking.
Dietary Restrictions
- This recipe is not suitable for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance due to the yogurt in the tzatziki sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pita bread.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
- Add a side of crispy oven-baked fries.
- Serve with extra tzatziki sauce for dipping.
- Complement with a glass of white wine or light beer.