Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros

Have you ever craved a delicious, juicy gyro but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? I know I have! One evening, after a long day, I found myself staring at a packet of beef, wondering how to transform it into something satisfying and flavorful without all the hassle. That’s when I decided to throw everything into my Instant Pot. And let me tell you, Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros became a game-changer. In under 30 minutes, I was sitting down to a juicy, tender gyro that tasted just like the ones from my favorite Greek restaurant.

If you’re looking for an easy and quick dinner that’s packed with flavor, these Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros will be your new go-to meal!

Why You’ll Love Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros

Gyros are one of those comfort foods that never fail to satisfy, but traditional methods can take time. The beauty of this Instant Pot Beef Gyros recipe is that it cuts down on cooking time without sacrificing the delicious flavors you love. Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, the beef comes out tender and juicy, while the seasoning and tangy tzatziki sauce tie everything together perfectly. This meal is not only easy to make, but it’s also customizable, so you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros

Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s everything you’ll need to make these tasty Instant Pot Beef Gyros:

For the Beef:

• 1.5 lbs beef (chuck roast, sirloin, or flank steak—see tips below for best options)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Warm pita bread
• Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, red onion)

How to Make Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up. Once the oil is hot, add your beef in batches. If using a higher-fat cut like chuck roast, brown the beef on all sides. This adds rich flavor to the beef, which will enhance the overall taste of your gyros. However, if you’re using lean cuts like sirloin or flank steak, you can reduce the searing time to avoid overcooking. After searing, remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary and toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and soft, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (the fond). These caramelized bits add depth to the flavor of your dish.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Once the onions are softened, add the ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, and ground cinnamon to the pot. Stir everything together to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. The warm spices will infuse the air with an amazing aroma!

Step 4: Add Liquids and Cook the Beef

Now it’s time to return the beef to the pot. Add the lemon juice, soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together and make sure the beef is well coated in the spices. Important: To avoid the “burn” error, scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot to ensure no fond or spices are stuck before adding 1 cup of beef broth (or water). Pour in the liquid and make sure the beef is mostly covered. Lock the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes if using lean cuts like sirloin or flank steak, or 10 minutes for tougher, fattier cuts like chuck roast.

Step 5: Quick Release and Shred the Beef

Once the cooking time is up, carefully do a quick release of the pressure. When the pressure is released, open the lid and use two forks to shred the beef inside the Instant Pot. The beef should be tender and juicy, with all the spices perfectly absorbed.

Step 6: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the beef is cooking, you can quickly prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to drain excess water), lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s well combined, and set it aside in the fridge to chill while you finish the beef.

Step 7: Assemble the Gyros

To assemble the gyros, take a warm pita bread and add a generous portion of the shredded beef in the center. Top with a spoonful of tzatziki sauce and your favorite fresh vegetables—tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and red onion all work great! Fold the pita around the filling and enjoy.

Tips for Perfect Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros

• Choosing the Right Beef Cut: If you’re using sirloin or flank steak (leaner cuts), reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes. These cuts cook quickly and become tough if overcooked. For a more tender and juicy gyro, chuck roast or brisket are better options for longer cooking times (10 minutes on high pressure).
• Customize the Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes.
• Make It Ahead: If you’re meal prepping, this beef can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat it when you’re ready to assemble the gyros.
• Tzatziki Variations: If you want to make a dairy-free version of tzatziki, try using coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt alternative. You can also add fresh herbs like dill for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen beef stew meat for this recipe?

While the Instant Pot is fantastic for cooking frozen meat, it’s best to use cuts like chuck roast, sirloin, or flank steak that are thawed for this recipe. If you do choose frozen meat, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked.

2. Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely! This stew actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have had more time to meld together. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover beef and tzatziki sauce can be stored in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The beef can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Tzatziki sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. The flavors will have time to meld together and become even more delicious.

Why You Should Try Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros

If you’re a fan of juicy, tender beef with the perfect blend of spices, you’ll love these Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros. They’re quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. Plus, the homemade tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing, tangy contrast that takes this gyro to the next level.

Conclusion: Ready to Make Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros?

These Easy Instant Pot Beef Gyros are the perfect way to bring a taste of Greece to your kitchen without the long wait or complicated cooking methods. They’re fast, flavorful, and totally customizable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and make your next dinner a delicious, stress-free success!