This easy slow cooker beef gyros recipe is all about tender, juicy meat soaked in delicious spices. Just set it up and let it cook while you take a break!
I love how the meat practically melts in your mouth! Serve it with fresh veggies and creamy sauce for a tasty meal that feels special without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes very tender. If you can’t find it, consider using brisket or a round roast instead. Both will still produce juicy results.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth to the dish. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can work; just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Greek Yogurt: It’s the base for the tzatziki sauce. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute with low-fat or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just ensure it’s thick enough.
Pita Bread: While traditional, you can swap this for tortillas or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option. Both make for fun presentations!
How Do I Make the Beef Super Tender in the Slow Cooker?
Getting tender beef in a slow cooker is all about time and moisture. Here are the steps:
- Choose the right cut: Chuck roast has good marbling, making it ideal for slow cooking.
- Low and slow: Cook on low for 8-10 hours. It allows the meat to break down perfectly.
- Use enough liquid: Adding beef broth or water ensures the meat stays moist and absorbs flavors.
- Shred and mix: After cooking, shred the beef right in the juices to keep it extra flavorful.
Following these tips will give you that melt-in-your-mouth texture for your gyros!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Gyros
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2-3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 4-6 pita breads or flatbreads, warmed
- 1 cup chopped Romaine lettuce
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
For Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and needs 8-10 hours for slow cooking. You can set this up in the morning and enjoy delicious gyros by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in the olive oil and stir until well combined.
2. Prepare the Beef:
Rub the marinade all over the beef chuck roast, making sure it’s nicely coated. This will infuse great flavor into the meat as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook the Beef:
Place the marinated beef into the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth or water around the roast. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the beef is cooking, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
5. Shred the Beef:
When the cooking time is complete, take the beef out of the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Mix it back into the delicious cooking juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. Assemble the Gyros:
Warm the pita or flatbreads. Layer the shredded beef on the bread, followed by Romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Top it off with a good dollop of tzatziki sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
If you’d like, wrap the gyros in foil for easier eating. Serve these tasty gyros fresh and enjoy every bite!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful slow cooker beef gyros! They’re perfect for a simple meal that tastes amazing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness during slow cooking, you can also use brisket or a round roast. Just be aware that cooking times may vary a bit depending on the cut.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Tzatziki Sauce?
If you prefer a milder tzatziki sauce, simply reduce the amount of garlic. Additionally, you can add a bit more yogurt to balance out the flavors. If you want more kick, try incorporating a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! The beef and tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat the beef gently before serving. Your gyros will still taste fresh and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Beef Gyros?
Store any leftover beef and tzatziki sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef gently on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy the leftover gyros in a wrap or as a salad topping!
