When it comes to hearty and flavorful dishes, Greece never disappoints. With its rich culinary heritage, the country offers a wide range of mouth-watering recipes that are sure to satisfy any appetite. And what’s more satisfying than a juicy ground beef dish? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious Greek ground beef recipes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. From classic moussaka to innovative stuffed peppers, each recipe is a testament to the country’s love for bold flavors and simple yet effective cooking techniques.
Greek Beef Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy beef with the bright flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Moussaka with Ground Beef
A classic Greek dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this moussaka recipe combines ground beef, rich eggplant slices, and creamy bechamel sauce in a flavorful casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a pan until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. In a separate pan, sauté eggplant slices until tender.
5. Assemble the moussaka: layer cooked eggplant, meat mixture, and bechamel sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Beef and Feta Meatballs
Greek Beef and Feta Meatballs: A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, these bite-sized treats combine the richness of beef with the tanginess of feta cheese and a hint of Greek spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, feta cheese, onion, egg, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers
Savor the flavors of Greece with these tender and flavorful beef skewers, infused with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add beef cubes to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Thread 3-4 beef cubes onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the top of each skewer with any remaining marinade.
6. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through to desired doneness.
7. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Greek Beef Gyro Wraps
Experience the flavors of Greece with this classic recipe that combines tender beef, crispy pita bread, and a tangy tzatziki sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired thickness.
4. Grill the beef patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble wraps by slicing grilled beef into thin strips, placing on pita with tzatziki sauce, feta cheese, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Beef and Spinach Pie
A hearty, flavorful pie that combines tender beef, fresh spinach, and tangy feta cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Spoon the beef and spinach mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the filling.
8. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
9. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Beef Stuffed Zucchini
Add a twist to traditional stuffed zucchini with the bold flavors of Greece! This hearty recipe combines tender beef, tangy feta cheese, and fresh herbs for a dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
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 chopped onion, minced garlic, feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
5. Stuff each zucchini shell with the beef mixture, dividing it evenly among the four shells.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender.
Greek Beef and Orzo Casserole
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this hearty casserole, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This one-pot wonder combines tender beef, nutty orzo, and Mediterranean spices in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked orzo and beef mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Beef Keftedes (Meatballs)
Greek Beef Keftedes (Meatballs): A classic Greek appetizer or main course that combines the flavors of Greece with a hearty beef meatball. These keftedes are traditionally served with a side of tomato sauce and crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place keftedes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite tomato sauce and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Beef and Eggplant Lasagna
Greek Beef and Eggplant Lasagna: A flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender beef and roasted eggplant with a hint of Mediterranean spices and creamy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add sliced eggplant to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until tender.
5. Combine cooked beef and eggplant mixture with tomato sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of the beef and eggplant mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, then mozzarella cheese, and finally feta cheese. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Beef Saganaki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this hearty beef saganaki dish. Succulent beef and creamy feta cheese come together in a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as top round or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove beef from skillet and set aside. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in beef broth, white wine (if using), tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Return beef to skillet and stir in crumbled feta cheese. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until beef is cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Beef and Tomato Stew
This classic Greek stew is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, packed with tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, oregano, and paprika. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the tomatoes, red wine, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Greek Beef Dolmades (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
A classic Greek appetizer or snack, dolmades are a flavorful and aromatic treat. This recipe combines tender beef with fragrant spices and herbs, wrapped in delicate grape leaves.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the grape leaves. Rinse them in cold water, then blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the leaf into a neat package. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling.
5. Serve dolmades warm or at room temperature, drizzled with lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the savory flavors of Greece with the comfort of a hearty rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 the cooked rice, chopped onion, crumbled feta cheese, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Stuff each tomato half with the meat and rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Beef Pastitsio
Pastitsio, a classic Greek dish, is a comforting casserole that combines tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy bechamel sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of pasta. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below)
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato puree and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and meat sauce in a large mixing bowl.
7. Pour bechamel sauce over the top and mix until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, greased with olive oil.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt to taste
Combine butter and flour in a small saucepan; cook over medium heat, whisking constantly. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
Greek Beef and Herb Burgers
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful Greek-inspired patties, packed with juicy beef, fresh herbs, and a hint of Mediterranean magic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tzatziki sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, parsley, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with desired toppings, including tzatziki sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Greek Beef Spanakopita Rolls
These savory rolls combine the flavors of Greece with the comfort of a warm, cheesy spanakopita. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in feta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Brush phyllo sheets with olive oil and place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each sheet.
7. Roll up each sheet, placing seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until phyllo is golden brown.
Greek Beef and Lemon Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Greek cuisine, with tender beef, bright citrus flavors, and a hint of aromatic spices. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the beef broth, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Greek Beef and Olive Pita Pockets
A flavorful and satisfying sandwich filled with tender beef, tangy olives, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, olives, parsley, garlic, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a beef patty on each pita, followed by a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Beef and Yogurt Flatbread
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this hearty flatbread recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Gradually add olive oil, mixing until dough forms.
4. Divide dough into 2-3 equal pieces. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook beef, onion, garlic, tomato paste, and oregano for 5 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
6. Spread cooked beef mixture onto flatbread circles, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Dollop Greek yogurt on top of beef mixture.
8. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using).
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Greece with these 20 mouth-watering ground beef recipes! From classic dishes like Moussaka and Gyro Wraps, to creative twists on traditional favorites, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy skillet meal, these recipes are sure to please. With a focus on fresh herbs and bold spices, these Greek-inspired dishes will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
