Greek Gyro Meatloaf : A Flavor-Packed Mediterranean Classic

If you love the bold, savory flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, then this Greek Gyro Meatloaf is going to be your new favorite dinner. It takes all the irresistible spices and textures from a traditional gyro and transforms them into an easy-to-make, family-friendly meatloaf.

Instead of hunting down a rotisserie or stacking lamb on a spit, you can make this gyro meatloaf recipe right in your oven using simple ingredients. Whether you’re craving an authentic Greek gyro meat recipe or just looking for something exciting to serve for dinner, this dish delivers rich flavor, moist texture, and a true taste of Greece.

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Why This Gyro Meatloaf Recipe Works

There are so many reasons why this recipe will become a regular in your kitchen:

• Easy to make – All the flavor of gyros without special equipment.
• Authentic taste – Spices like oregano, garlic, and onion replicate the traditional Greek profile.
• Family-friendly – Familiar meatloaf form that even picky eaters will enjoy.
• Versatile – Serve as slices, sandwiches, or with sides for a traditional Greek gyro meal.
• Meal prep friendly – Leftovers reheat beautifully and can even be frozen.

If you love cozy dinners, you may also enjoy Scalloped Potatoes as a perfect comfort side.

What is Gyro Meatloaf?

Classic Greek gyros are made with seasoned ground lamb (sometimes mixed with beef) that’s layered on a vertical spit and roasted until crispy. The meat is then shaved and tucked into pita bread with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions.

This gyro meatloaf is a creative twist that brings all those same flavors into an oven-baked dish. Instead of slicing shaved gyro meat, you get thick, juicy slices of lamb meatloaf infused with oregano, garlic, and herbs. It’s a clever way to enjoy gyros without needing a rotisserie.

Think of it as a cross between easy Greek meatloaf and an authentic gyro meat recipe. For another Mediterranean-inspired dinner, try these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Gyro Meatloaf

This recipe serves 6 people. You’ll need:

• 1 pound ground lamb (for authentic flavor; see variations below)
• 1 pound ground beef (balances the lamb’s richness)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
• ½ cup onion, finely grated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional toppings and sides:

• Tzatziki sauce
• Pita bread or flatbread
• Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions
• Feta cheese crumbles

Want a delicious potato side dish to go with it? Try Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment

To make this gyro meatloaf, you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish or loaf pan
• Meat thermometer
• Grater (for onion)
• Sharp knife for slicing

For an easy bread pairing, check out Cottage Cheese Flatbread—perfect for soaking up juices.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Gyro Meatloaf

1. Preheat and Prep – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Combine Ingredients – In a large bowl, add ground lamb, ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, milk, and all seasonings. Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
3. Shape and Bake – Press the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Rest and Slice – Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step locks in juices and makes cutting easier.
5. Serve – Serve slices with warm pita, fresh veggies, and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Or plate with roasted potatoes and a Greek salad for a traditional Greek gyro meal.

For another hearty family-style dinner, you might enjoy Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry.

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Tips for Perfect Gyro Meatloaf

• Use ground lamb – It delivers the most authentic gyro flavor.
• Balance with beef – Combining lamb with beef prevents the flavor from being too gamey.
• Grate the onion – This keeps the texture smooth without chunks.
• Rest before slicing – A short rest keeps juices locked in.
• Season generously – Mediterranean spices are key for flavor.

If you love spiced comfort food, check out this Vegetable Casserole for another hearty option.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

• All-lamb meatloaf – For purists who want the most authentic lamb meatloaf.
• Turkey or chicken meatloaf – A lighter version with less fat.
• Plant-based option – Use lentils or chickpeas plus breadcrumbs for a vegetarian take.
• Spice swap – Add coriander or cinnamon for a Middle Eastern-inspired twist.
• Stuffed version – Add feta cheese in the center for extra richness.

For another creative twist with ground meat, try Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole.

How to Serve Greek Gyro Meatloaf

There are endless ways to serve this dish:

• Classic style – Slice and tuck into pita bread with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers.
• Plated meal – Serve slices with rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or Greek salad.
• Low-carb option – Skip the bread and pair with cauliflower rice or grilled zucchini.
• Party platter – Slice into bite-size pieces with toothpicks for a Mediterranean appetizer spread.

If you enjoy creative finger foods, you’ll also like Snake Charmers Pretzels for entertaining.

What to Pair with Gyro Meatloaf

To round out your meal, consider pairing with:

• Greek salad with olives and feta
• Roasted potatoes with lemon and herbs
• Fresh cucumber-dill salad
• Hummus or baba ghanoush with pita chips
• Cooling yogurt dip with mint

For another refreshing side, try Cucumber Dill Salad.

Meal Prep, Storage, and Freezer Tips

• Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
• Meal prep: Slice and portion into containers with sides like roasted vegetables or salad.

Looking for another freezer-friendly dinner? Try Crockpot Fajitas.

Healthy Benefits of Greek Gyro Meatloaf

This recipe highlights the healthful side of Mediterranean cooking:

• Protein-rich – Lamb and beef are packed with protein.
• Rich in spices – Oregano, thyme, and garlic bring antioxidant benefits.
• Customizable – Easy to make low-carb, dairy-free, or gluten-free.

For another healthy dinner idea, try Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the meat – Leads to tough, dense texture.
• Skipping the resting step – Causes juices to run out when slicing.
• Too little seasoning – Greek flavors shine when herbs and spices are bold.
• Using only lean meat – A mix of lamb and beef gives the best texture and juiciness.

Another classic comfort side to pair with this is Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce.

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FAQs About Gyro Meatloaf

Can I make this without lamb? Yes. Use all beef or a mix of beef and turkey for a milder flavor.

Can I cook it outside of a loaf pan? Absolutely. Shape into a free-form loaf on a baking sheet for more crust.

How do I make it dairy-free? Replace milk with almond or oat milk, and skip feta if using it as a topping.

Can I grill gyro meatloaf? Yes! Shape into a loaf and grill over indirect heat until cooked through.

Is this authentic Greek food? It’s a modern take—traditional gyros are cooked on a spit. But the flavors are inspired by an authentic Greek gyro meat recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Gyro Meatloaf is proof that comfort food can still carry the flavors of the Mediterranean. It’s bold, juicy, and versatile enough for weeknight dinners, weekend feasts, or meal prep.

Whether you enjoy it in pita bread as a gyro sandwich or plated with sides for a traditional Greek gyro meal, this recipe is a keeper.

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