Are you tired of the same old meat dishes? Look no further! In this article, you will discover a delightful collection of Greek meat recipes that are sure to satisfy your craving for new and exciting flavors. From juicy souvlaki skewers to succulent moussaka, these dishes will transport you to the beautiful Mediterranean country of Greece with every mouthful. So, dust off your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure filled with tantalizing aromas and mouthwatering dishes that will leave you wanting more.
Traditional Greek Meat Dishes
Greek cuisine is known for its delicious and flavorful meat dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From hearty moussaka to succulent souvlaki, Greek meat dishes are a delightful combination of aromatic herbs, spices, and tender meat. Here are some traditional Greek meat dishes that you must try:
Moussaka
Moussaka is perhaps one of the most famous Greek dishes and a must-try when visiting Greece. This hearty dish combines layers of eggplant, minced meat (often lamb), and a rich tomato sauce. Topped with a creamy bechamel sauce and baked to perfection, moussaka is comfort food at its finest. It is often served as a main course and pairs well with a fresh Greek salad.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki, also known as kebab, is a popular Greek street food that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish features skewered pieces of marinated meat, such as pork, chicken, or lamb, grilled to perfection. The meat is often seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs such as oregano and thyme. Souvlaki is commonly served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side of fries or salad.
Pastitsio
If you’re a fan of lasagna, you’ll love pastitsio, a Greek twist on the classic Italian dish. Pastitsio is a baked pasta dish that consists of layered macaroni, flavorful minced meat (typically beef or lamb), and a velvety bechamel sauce. It is often topped with a sprinkling of grated cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. This indulgent dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Giouvetsi
Giouvetsi is a traditional Greek casserole dish that combines tender meat, often beef or lamb, with orzo pasta, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. This one-pot wonder is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a mouthwatering dish. Giouvetsi is often served with a sprinkle of grated cheese and a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Greek Meatballs and Meatloaf
Greek cuisine boasts a variety of flavorful meatballs and meatloaves that are sure to please meat lovers. These dishes are often seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and sometimes cooked with tomatoes or other savory ingredients. Here are some Greek meatball and meatloaf recipes to try:
Keftedes
Keftedes are Greek meatballs that are made with a combination of ground meat, such as beef, lamb, or pork, mixed with breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, fresh herbs, and spices. These bite-sized delights are typically fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and flavorful on the inside. Keftedes are often served as an appetizer or as a main course alongside tzatziki sauce and a side of pita bread.
Keftedakia
Similar to keftedes, keftedakia are small meatballs that are bursting with flavor. The main difference lies in the addition of grated cheese, such as feta or kefalotyri, to the meat mixture, giving them an extra tangy and rich taste. Keftedakia can be enjoyed as part of a mezze platter, or served with a refreshing Greek salad for a light and satisfying meal.
Soutzoukakia
Soutzoukakia is a Greek meatball dish that stands out with its unique combination of spices and flavors. The meatballs are made with a mixture of ground meat, such as beef or lamb, onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. After shaping the meat mixture into oblong shapes, they are traditionally baked or braised in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful. Soutzoukakia are often served with rice or mashed potatoes.
Thiples
Thiples, also known as fried dough pastries, are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed as a dessert or a savory dish. In the context of Greek meat recipes, thiples can be filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. The filled dough is then fried until golden brown and crispy, resulting in a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Thiples can be served as an appetizer or paired with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Biftekia
Biftekia are Greek-style meat patties that are similar to hamburgers but with a distinct Mediterranean twist. They are made with a mixture of ground meat, such as beef or lamb, mixed with onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and spices. The patties are then grilled or fried until cooked to perfection. Biftekia are often served with a side of fries, tzatziki sauce, and a Greek salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Greek Lamb Recipes
Lamb is a staple in Greek cuisine, and its tender and succulent meat is often the star of many traditional dishes. From slow-roasted lamb to flavorful souvlaki, here are some Greek lamb recipes that you should definitely give a try:
Roast Lamb with Potatoes
Roast lamb with potatoes, also known as arni sto fourno me patates, is a classic Greek dish that is perfect for a festive occasion or a special family gathering. A whole leg or shoulder of lamb is marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs, such as rosemary and oregano. The meat is then slow-roasted in the oven, resulting in tender and succulent meat with crispy and golden potatoes. This dish is often served with a side of seasonal vegetables and a crisp Greek salad.
Lamb Souvlaki
Souvlaki is a beloved Greek street food that can be made with various meats, but lamb souvlaki is a true delight for lamb lovers. Tender pieces of marinated lamb are skewered and grilled to perfection, resulting in succulent and flavorful meat. Lamb souvlaki is typically served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of garnishes such as onions, tomatoes, and lettuce. With its juicy and tender meat, lamb souvlaki is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Lamb Stifado
Lamb stifado is a flavorful and aromatic stew that showcases the richness of lamb combined with a medley of onions, aromatic spices, and a sweet touch of red wine and vinegar. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in fork-tender meat and a luscious sauce. Lamb stifado is often served with rice or orzo pasta, which helps to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for cooler days and will fill your home with tantalizing aromas.
Lamb Kleftiko
Lamb kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish that originates from the mountainous regions of Greece. This dish is made by slow-cooking a whole leg or shoulder of lamb, marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a combination of aromatic herbs. The meat is wrapped tightly in parchment paper or foil, sealing in all the flavors and juices, and then baked in a low oven for several hours. The result is unbelievably tender and melt-in-your-mouth lamb that falls off the bone. Lamb kleftiko is often served with roasted potatoes and a fresh Greek salad, making it a perfect meal for a special occasion or Sunday lunch.
Greek Pork Recipes
Pork is a common meat used in Greek cuisine, offering a flavorful and versatile option for a variety of dishes. From juicy pork gyro to mouthwatering souvlaki, here are some Greek pork recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings:
Pork Gyro
Pork gyro is a beloved Greek street food that consists of succulent slices of marinated and slow-roasted pork, served in warm pita bread with a variety of toppings and sauces. The pork is typically marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, and paprika. The sliced meat is often grilled for a final touch of smokiness before being wrapped in a soft pita bread along with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes fries. Pork gyro is a go-to option for a quick and delicious meal on the go.
Pork Souvlaki
Souvlaki made with pork is a classic Greek dish that is popular all year round. Cubes of pork are marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a combination of herbs and spices, before being skewered and grilled to perfection. The result is tender and juicy pieces of pork that are bursting with flavor. Pork souvlaki is often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side of fries or a fresh Greek salad. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a mezze platter.
Kontosouvli
Kontosouvli is a traditional Greek rotisserie dish that features large chunks of marinated pork, which are skewered and slowly cooked over an open fire or on a rotisserie grill. The pork is marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a mix of aromatic herbs and spices, allowing the meat to absorb all the flavors and become tender and succulent. Kontosouvli is often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of garnishes. It is a popular dish for outdoor gatherings and celebrations, where the tantalizing aroma of the roasting meat fills the air.
Tigania
Tigania is a tasty and satisfying dish made with bite-sized pieces of pork that are sautéed in olive oil with a medley of aromatic herbs, spices, and often a splash of white wine. The pork becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, while the sauce forms a rich and savory glaze. Tigania is typically served as a main course with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad. It is an ideal dish for a cozy dinner at home or for entertaining guests.
Greek Beef Recipes
Beef is a versatile protein that plays a significant role in Greek cuisine. From hearty meatloaf to flavorful souvlaki, here are some delectable Greek beef recipes worth trying:
Greek-style Meatloaf
Greek-style meatloaf, also known as soutzoukakia, is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf. The ground beef is combined with breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, fresh herbs, and a blend of aromatic spices, including cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. The meat mixture is shaped into oblong patties that are then baked in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful. Served with rice or crusty bread, Greek-style meatloaf offers a comforting and wholesome meal.
Beef Stifado
Beef stifado is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for cooler days. Tender pieces of beef are slowly cooked with a medley of onions, aromatic spices, and a touch of red wine and vinegar. The long cooking process allows the flavors to develop and creates a rich and thick sauce that coats the tender meat. Beef stifado is traditionally served with rice or orzo pasta, providing a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Beef Souvlaki
Souvlaki made with beef is a popular Greek dish that combines the tenderness of beef with the irresistible flavors of Greek marinade. Cubes of beef are marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices before being skewered and grilled to perfection. The result is succulent and juicy pieces of beef that are bursting with flavor. Beef souvlaki is often enjoyed with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side of fries or a crisp Greek salad.
Kreatopita
Kreatopita, also known as Greek meat pie, is a savory delight that is sure to satisfy your cravings for a meaty and hearty dish. The pie is made with a flavorful filling of ground beef, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. Kreatopita can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and is often served as a main course or as part of a mezze platter. Pair it with a refreshing Greek salad for a truly satisfying meal.
Greek Chicken Recipes
Chicken is a versatile and delicious protein that is widely used in Greek cuisine. From tender souvlaki to flavorful stifado, here are some mouthwatering Greek chicken recipes that are sure to impress:
Chicken Souvlaki
Chicken souvlaki is a classic Greek dish that features marinated and grilled chicken skewers. The chicken is typically marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in tender and juicy meat with a burst of flavor. Chicken souvlaki is often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of toppings such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. It is a popular choice for a quick and delicious meal that can be enjoyed on the go.
Chicken Gyro
Chicken gyro is a flavorful and satisfying Greek street food favorite. It starts with marinated and slow-roasted chicken that is thinly sliced and served in warm pita bread. Topped with tangy tzatziki sauce, fresh tomatoes, onions, and sometimes fries, chicken gyro offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a complete meal, chicken gyro is sure to delight your taste buds.
Chicken Stifado
Chicken stifado is a comforting Greek stew that showcases the versatility of chicken in Greek cuisine. Tender pieces of chicken are slow-cooked with a medley of onions, aromatic spices, and a touch of red wine and vinegar. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Chicken stifado is typically served with rice or orzo pasta, soaking up all the delicious sauce and offering an irresistible combination of flavors.
Kotopoulo me Sparangia
Kotopoulo me Sparangia, also known as chicken with asparagus, is a delightful Greek dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant and nutritious asparagus. The chicken is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce along with asparagus, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. This dish offers a harmonious combination of flavors and textures and is often served with rice or crusty bread, making it a wholesome and delicious meal choice.
Greek Veal Recipes
Veal, with its tender and delicate flavor, is a popular choice for many Greek dishes. From hearty stews to succulent souvlaki, here are some Greek veal recipes that you must try:
Veal with Orzo
Veal with orzo, also known as arnaki me kritharaki, is a traditional Greek dish that combines tender pieces of veal with orzo pasta, which resembles rice grains. The veal is slow-cooked with a medley of onions, garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. The orzo absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying dish. Veal with orzo is often served with a side of Greek salad, providing a balanced and delicious meal.
Veal Giouvetsi
Veal giouvetsi is a mouthwatering Greek casserole dish that features tender pieces of veal cooked with orzo pasta, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. This one-pot wonder is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and savory dish. Veal giouvetsi is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of grated cheese and a side of crusty bread.
Veal Stew
Veal stew, also known as arnaki stifado, is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for cooler days. Tender pieces of veal are slow-cooked with a medley of onions, aromatic spices, and a touch of red wine and vinegar. This long cooking process allows the flavors to develop and creates a rich and thick sauce that coats the velvety veal. Veal stew is traditionally served with rice or orzo pasta, which helps to soak up the flavorsome sauce and provides a satisfying meal.
Veal Souvlaki
Veal souvlaki is a delicious variation of the classic pork or chicken souvlaki. Tender pieces of marinated veal are skewered and grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat. Veal souvlaki is typically served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and an array of garnishes such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a mezze platter, offering a delightful taste of Greece.
Greek Turkey Recipes
Turkey, with its lean and tender meat, is often used in Greek cuisine to create flavorful and delicious dishes. From turkey moussaka to succulent turkey souvlaki, here are some Greek turkey recipes that are sure to please:
Greek-style Turkey Burgers
Greek-style turkey burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, without compromising on flavor. Ground turkey is mixed with grated onions, garlic, herbs, spices, and a touch of feta cheese, creating a patty that is both juicy and flavorful. The burgers are then grilled or pan-fried until cooked through, and served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of toppings such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce.
Turkey Moussaka
Turkey moussaka is a delicious twist on the classic Greek dish that traditionally uses lamb or beef. In this variation, ground turkey is used as a lean and flavorful alternative. The turkey is cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs to create a rich and flavorful sauce. Layered with eggplant and topped with a creamy bechamel sauce, turkey moussaka is baked until golden and bubbling. This lighter version of moussaka is perfect for those looking for a healthier yet delicious meal.
Turkey Souvlaki
Turkey souvlaki is a delightful Greek dish that features marinated and grilled turkey skewers. Tender and juicy pieces of turkey are marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a burst of flavorful meat. Turkey souvlaki is often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of toppings such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. It is a great option for a lighter and healthier meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Turkey Stifado
Turkey stifado is a hearty stew that highlights the tender and lean meat of turkey. This flavorful dish features turkey cooked with a medley of onions, aromatic spices, and a touch of red wine and vinegar. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a thick and rich sauce that coats the succulent turkey. Turkey stifado is traditionally served with rice or orzo pasta, providing a satisfying and wholesome meal option.
Greek Meat Sausages
Greek cuisine is famous for its delicious sausages that feature a variety of meats combined with aromatic herbs and spices. From loukaniko to Greek souvlaki sausages, here are some Greek meat sausage recipes to try:
Loukaniko
Loukaniko is a traditional Greek sausage that is highly regarded for its flavorful and aromatic profile. Made with a combination of ground pork, lamb, or beef, loukaniko is seasoned with a mixture of herbs and spices such as garlic, cumin, coriander, and orange zest. The sausages are often grilled or pan-fried until cooked through, resulting in succulent and juicy links bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Loukaniko is a staple on any Greek grill and is often served as part of a mezze platter or as a main course with a side of fries or Greek salad.
Sheftalia
Sheftalia is a unique and tasty Cypriot sausage that has also become popular in Greek cuisine. Made with a mixture of ground pork, beef, and lamb, sheftalia is seasoned with onions, garlic, fresh herbs, and spices. The meat mixture is then encased in a delicate casing made from lamb or caul fat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful sausage. Sheftalia is typically grilled until cooked through, and often served alongside pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of mezze dishes.
Greek Souvlaki Sausages
Greek souvlaki sausages, also known as souzoukakia, are a delicious variation of the classic souvlaki. The sausages are made with a mixture of ground meat such as beef or lamb, onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. The meat mixture is shaped into oblong sausages and typically grilled or pan-fried until cooked through. Greek souvlaki sausages are often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a variety of garnishes such as tomatoes, onions, and lettuce. They are a great option for a quick and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed on the go.
Greek Meat Pies
Greek meat pies, or pitas, are a popular and comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a meal or a snack. These pies often feature a variety of fillings encased in a flaky and buttery pastry. Here are some traditional Greek meat pie recipes:
Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a traditional Greek spinach and feta cheese pie, but it can also be made with the addition of ground meat. The pie is made by layering a mixture of cooked spinach, ground meat, feta cheese, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices between sheets of phyllo pastry. The layers are then baked until golden and crispy, resulting in a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Spanakopita can be enjoyed as a main course or as an appetizer, and is a great way to incorporate both vegetables and meat into a single dish.
Tiropita
Tiropita is a delightful Greek cheese pie that can be made with the addition of ground meat for a heartier version. The pie is made by layering a mixture of feta cheese, eggs, and Greek yogurt between sheets of phyllo pastry. Adding ground meat, such as beef or lamb, to the filling adds richness and depth of flavor. Tiropita is often enjoyed as a snack or as part of a mezze platter, and can also be served alongside a fresh salad for a light and satisfying meal.
Kreatopita
Kreatopita, also known as Greek meat pie, is a savory delight that is sure to please meat lovers. The filling is made with a combination of ground meat, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. Kreatopita can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and is often served as a main course or as part of a mezze platter. Pair it with a refreshing Greek salad for a truly satisfying meal.
Greek meat recipes offer a wide range of flavors and combinations that are sure to satisfy any meat lover. From traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki to flavorful meatballs, sausages, and pies, Greek cuisine is a treasure trove of delicious meat-based recipes. Whether you’re a fan of lamb, pork, beef, chicken, veal, turkey, or a combination of these meats, Greek cuisine has something for everyone. So don’t hesitate to explore the wonderful world of Greek meat recipes and indulge in the rich and diverse flavors of Greece.
