A gyros casserole with feta is the perfect dish when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Tender gyros meat, creamy sauce, and melted feta cheese come together for a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the family or want to impress guests, this dish is always a winner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Easy to make and perfect for busy days
- A delicious mix of juicy gyros, creamy sauce, and melted cheese
- Tastes amazing fresh out of the oven and even better the next day
- Simple ingredients with plenty of room for customization
Ingredients
You’ll find the full ingredient list below, but here’s a quick overview:
- Gyros meat – either pre-seasoned or homemade
- Potatoes or pasta – for the perfect base
- Bell peppers and onions – classic gyros flavors
- Cream and sour cream – for a rich and creamy sauce
- Feta cheese – adds a salty, tangy finish
Preparing the Potatoes or Pasta
If using potatoes, peel and slice them thinly. If you prefer pasta, cook it until just al dente so it doesn’t get too soft when baked.
Cooking the Gyros Meat
Sear the seasoned gyros meat in a hot pan until browned and slightly crispy. If seasoning from scratch, use garlic, oregano, paprika, and a pinch of cinnamon for an authentic taste.
Adding the Vegetables
Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions and sauté for a few minutes. This adds a touch of sweetness and extra depth to the dish.
Making the Creamy Sauce
Mix cream with sour cream and a bit of gyros seasoning. If you like a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra garlic.
Assembling and Baking
In a baking dish, layer the potatoes or pasta first, then add the gyros meat and vegetables. Pour the creamy sauce over everything and crumble feta cheese on top. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 30–40 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Want even more flavor? Marinate the gyros meat for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Not a fan of feta? Try mozzarella or mild goat cheese for a different twist.
- Love a crunchy topping? Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top before serving.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Low Carb: Swap potatoes for zucchini or cauliflower.
- Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms or soy-based meat alternatives.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a bit of cream cheese for a richer texture.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh cucumber or tomato salad. Serve it with warm pita bread or crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of dry red wine makes the meal even better!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick fix.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! While feta adds a salty kick, you can use Gouda, cheddar, or even Parmesan.
Is chicken a good substitute for gyros meat?
Definitely! Chicken gyros work great and make the dish a bit lighter.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, it’s best frozen before baking. When ready to cook, thaw it and bake as directed.
Conclusion
This gyros casserole with feta is like a little taste of Greece in every bite. It’s easy, full of flavor, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Try it out and enjoy!
Print
Delicious Gyros Casserole with Feta – Easy and Flavorful
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 5 to 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This hearty Gyro Casserole with Feta Cheese is an absolute delight! Tender, spiced gyro meat, crisp bell peppers, and a creamy sauce come together under a golden, melted cheese topping. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Gyro:
- 1 lb (500 g) pork or chicken strips
- 2 tbsp gyro seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced into rings
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup (200 ml) heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (200 g) sour cream or crème fraîche
- 1 tsp paprika (sweet)
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 5 oz (150 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 3.5 oz (100 g) shredded cheese (e.g., Gouda or Mozzarella)
Instructions
- Prepare the Gyro:
- Toss the meat with gyro seasoning and olive oil and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and sear the meat until browned.
- Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together heavy cream, sour cream, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a baking dish and spread the cooked gyro meat and vegetables evenly inside.
- Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir slightly to combine.
- Sprinkle feta cheese and shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes, then serve with fresh herbs or a side of tzatziki.
Notes
- You can use chicken, pork, or beef for this recipe.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra spice.
- This casserole pairs perfectly with rice, fries, or warm pita bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
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