Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the cradle of Western civilization! Greece, known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine, has a plethora of mouthwatering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. At the heart of these dishes is a staple ingredient – ground beef. In this article, we’ll explore 18 authentic Greek recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of ground beef. From classic moussaka to innovative stuffed peppers, and from hearty meatballs to refreshing salads, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
Greek Beef Stuffed Peppers with Feta and Herbs
Experience the bold flavors of Greece in this hearty dish, where tender beef, crunchy bell peppers, and tangy feta come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, feta cheese, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with foil.
7. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Classic Greek Moussaka with Ground Beef and Eggplant
Classic Greek Moussaka with Ground Beef and Eggplant Recipe
This beloved Greek dish is a layered masterpiece of rich flavors and textures, featuring tender eggplant, savory ground beef, and creamy bechamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or broil eggplant until tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Cook ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. In a separate pot, combine tomato puree, onion, and garlic. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Assemble the moussaka by layering cooked eggplant, ground beef mixture, and bechamel sauce in a baking dish.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Beef and Spinach Pie (Bougatsa)
A classic Greek pie filled with tender beef, fresh spinach, and a hint of feta cheese, all wrapped in flaky phyllo pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in spinach and feta cheese; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Beat egg in a small bowl; add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Layer phyllo dough with the beef mixture, finishing with a layer of phyllo on top.
7. Brush phyllo with olive oil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Meatballs (Keftedes) with Tzatziki Sauce
Savor the taste of Greece with these tender meatballs, flavored with onions, parsley, and spices, served with a refreshing yogurt-based tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
For the meatballs:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
For the tzatziki sauce:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Chopped fresh dill (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients until just combined.
3. Form into small balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine tzatziki sauce ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve meatballs with tzatziki sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Beef Gyro Wraps with Homemade Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece with these tender beef gyro wraps, served with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce. This recipe combines juicy beef, crispy pita bread, and crunchy veggies in a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
For the gyros:
– 1 lb beef (such as top round or sirloin), thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
For the tzatziki:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine beef, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare tzatziki by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Assemble gyros by slicing grilled beef into thin strips and wrapping with pita bread, veggies (such as tomato, onion, and lettuce), and tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Beef and Orzo Skillet with Tomatoes and Olives
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of Greece with tender beef, nutty orzo, and a burst of juicy tomatoes and olives. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to coat with tomato mixture.
6. Serve hot over cooked orzo. Top with feta cheese crumbles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Stuffed Zucchini with Ground Beef and Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece with a simple and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Juicy ground beef, savory rice, and tangy feta cheese are stuffed inside tender zucchinis for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Stuff each zucchini half with the meat and rice mixture, topping with crumbled feta cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Beef Souvlaki with Lemon Garlic Marinade
Experience the flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe for souvlaki. Tender beef skewers are marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef cubes (pita-style)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Thread 4-5 beef pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill souvlaki for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as Greek salad or warm pita bread.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Greek Beef and Feta Stuffed Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Greece with this simple yet impressive dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Juicy beef and crumbly feta cheese fill tender tomatoes, all wrapped up in a savory Mediterranean package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each tomato with the beef mixture, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Pastitsio (Beef and Pasta Bake with Béchamel)
Pastitsio, a classic Greek dish, is a rich and satisfying casserole that combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy béchamel sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 250g pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk, whisking constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and béchamel sauce in a large mixing bowl.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Greek Beef and Eggplant Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines tender beef, eggplant, and feta cheese with the brightness of Greek seasonings. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. In a separate pan, sauté eggplant slices and onion until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, eggplant mixture, feta cheese, and paprika.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek-Style Beef and Lentil Soup (Fakes)
This traditional Greek soup is a comforting blend of tender beef, nutritious lentils, and aromatic vegetables. Fakes is a staple in many Greek households, perfect for a cozy dinner or a warm lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Add browned beef back into the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Greek Beef and Potato Hash with Oregano
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, crispy potatoes, and pungent oregano for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh oregano, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced potatoes, olive oil, garlic, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until potatoes are tender and lightly browned.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the beef is cooked through and the potatoes are crispy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Beef Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
This classic Greek dish is a flavorful and festive appetizer or main course. Tender grape leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of beef, rice, and spices make for a deliciously authentic taste of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 20-24 grape leaves
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface, with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the dolmades for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned.
6. Transfer the dolmades to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the grape leaves are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek-Style Beef and Chickpea Stew
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, creamy chickpeas, and a hint of Mediterranean spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes for 5 minutes, then remove from pot.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chickpeas, beef broth, red wine vinegar, and oregano.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot; season with salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Enjoy your delicious Greek-Style Beef and Chickpea Stew!
Greek Beef and Pita Salad with Cucumber and Red Onion
This hearty salad combines tender beef, crunchy pita bread, refreshing cucumber, and tangy red onion for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef (such as flank steak), cooked to medium-rare
– 4-6 pita chips, toasted
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Slice the cooked beef against the grain into thin strips.
3. Layer the pita chips, beef, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl or individual containers.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with feta cheese crumbles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time for beef)
Greek-Style Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Greek-Style Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Twist on a Classic!
This recipe combines the flavors of Greece with the comfort of cabbage rolls, resulting in a deliciously unique dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then shock in an ice bath.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, parsley, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture onto the center of the leaf, and roll up tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Beef Saganaki with Flaming Cheese
Experience the thrill of Greek cuisine with this classic saganaki dish that’s sure to impress! A flavorful beef and cheese combination gets a dramatic boost from a flaming cheese finish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Return beef to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Butter a small skillet or flambeing pan over high heat.
8. Place Parmesan cheese in the center of the pan; ignite with a match or lighter.
9. Carefully place flaming cheese on top of the beef mixture in the large skillet.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the authentic flavors of Greece! This collection of 18 delicious recipes features ground beef as the star ingredient, paired with a variety of ingredients and spices. From classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki to innovative twists on traditional recipes, these flavorful Greek-inspired dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty stews, savory casseroles, or quick and easy wraps, there’s something here for everyone.
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