Greek Beef Souvlaki

Juicy, flavorful, and kissed by the grill – a taste of Greece in every bite.

If you’ve ever strolled through a bustling street in Athens or visited a seaside Greek taverna, chances are you’ve caught the irresistible aroma of souvlaki sizzling on the grill. It’s the sound of summer in Greece — smoky skewers, golden olive oil glistening in the sun, and lemon wedges ready for that perfect finishing squeeze.

This Greek Beef Souvlaki recipe brings all those sunny Mediterranean flavors right to your own kitchen. Tender cubes of beef are marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs, then grilled (or oven-broiled) to juicy perfection. It’s a simple yet soulful dish — proof that the best food often comes from the humblest ingredients.

What Is Souvlaki?

Souvlaki (pronounced soo-VLAH-kee) means “little skewer” in Greek. Traditionally, it’s made with pork, chicken, or lamb — but beef souvlaki is a rich and flavorful variation that’s become just as beloved. Each bite offers the perfect combination of smoky char, zesty marinade, and juicy tenderness.

In Greece, souvlaki is typically served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh tomato-cucumber salad. It’s both a street food favorite and a staple of Greek family gatherings — often cooked outdoors over hot coals, surrounded by laughter and the scent of oregano drifting through the air.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Beef Souvlaki Recipe

• Authentic Mediterranean flavor – classic Greek herbs, olive oil, and lemon.
• Quick and easy – simple ingredients, big results.
• Perfect for grilling season – but works great indoors too.
• High-protein and nutrient-rich – a satisfying, balanced meal.
• Customizable – serve with pita, rice, or salads for endless variety.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special, Greek Beef Souvlaki is the answer.

Ingredients

For the Beef Souvlaki:

• 1 ½ lbs beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional, for tenderness)

For Serving:

• Pita bread or flatbread
• Tzatziki sauce (Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill)
• Fresh lemon wedges
• Chopped parsley or dill for garnish
• Greek salad (optional but perfect side)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. If using red wine vinegar, add it now. This simple blend infuses the beef with classic Mediterranean flavor.
2. Marinate the Beef
   Add the cubed beef to the bowl, tossing well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor). The acidity of lemon and vinegar helps break down the beef fibers, ensuring juicy results.
3. Soak the Skewers (if wooden)
   While the beef marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
4. Assemble the Skewers
   Thread 4–5 beef cubes onto each skewer, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Grill or Broil the Souvlaki
   • Outdoor Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C). Grill skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef is seared and cooked to your preferred doneness.
   • Oven Broiler: Preheat broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil, place skewers on top, and broil 4–5 inches from heat for about 9–11 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Serve Hot
   Transfer cooked skewers to a plate, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or dill.
7. Enjoy with Classic Sides
   Serve the souvlaki with warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki sauce, and a crisp Greek salad for a complete meal.

Greek Beef Souvlaki

Tender beef cubes marinated in olive oil, lemon, and herbs, then grilled to perfection — a classic Greek souvlaki bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Calories: 310

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Beef Souvlaki

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin cut into cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1.5 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp smoked paprika optional
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar optional

Equipment

• Grill or broiler
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers
• Tongs

Method

 

1. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and seasonings in a bowl.
2. Add cubed beef and marinate at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Thread beef onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Serve hot with pita bread, tzatziki, and lemon wedges.

Notes

For extra tenderness, use sirloin or tenderloin. Rest skewers for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Beef Souvlaki

• Choose the right cut: Sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye work best — tender with good marbling.
• Marinate overnight: For deeper flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t overcook: Medium doneness (about 140°F/60°C) keeps the beef juicy.
• Let it rest: Rest skewers for 5 minutes before serving so juices redistribute.
• Add veggies: For a colorful twist, alternate beef with bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes.

Homemade Tzatziki Sauce (Bonus Recipe)

This cooling sauce is the soul mate of any souvlaki. Here’s how to make it from scratch:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cucumber, finely grated and drained
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
3. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Creamy, garlicky, and tangy — tzatziki elevates every bite of beef souvlaki.

Variations

• Beef & Veggie Souvlaki: Alternate chunks of beef with colorful vegetables on the skewer.
• Spicy Souvlaki: Add chili flakes or a touch of cayenne to the marinade.
• Herb Lovers: Mix fresh oregano, rosemary, or mint into the marinade for a garden-fresh twist.
• Low-Carb Meal: Skip the pita and serve with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.
• Party Platter: Make mini skewers for appetizers or serve as a DIY souvlaki bar with various sauces.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Greek Beef Souvlaki alongside:

• Tzatziki sauce – cooling and creamy.
• Pita bread – perfect for wrapping the skewers.
• Greek salad – tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, olives, and red onions.
• Roasted potatoes or rice pilaf – for a heartier meal.

Add a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon, and you’re practically dining on the Aegean coast.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked beef cubes for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to retain moisture.

Cultural Spotlight: Souvlaki in Greek Life

Souvlaki is more than food — it’s a way of life in Greece. From small roadside grills to family barbecues, it represents togetherness, hospitality, and the joy of simple, honest cooking. Greeks rarely complicate their food — instead, they let pure ingredients shine. Olive oil, lemon, herbs, and quality meat are all you need for magic.

When you cook Greek Beef Souvlaki at home, you’re not just making dinner — you’re bringing a piece of Mediterranean sunshine to your table.

Conclusion

Greek Beef Souvlaki is proof that simplicity and tradition never go out of style. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a good grill, you can recreate the authentic flavors of Greece — right at home. Juicy, herb-marinated beef skewers paired with creamy tzatziki and fluffy pita bread? That’s pure comfort and sunshine on a plate.

Whether it’s a summer cookout, family dinner, or a craving for Greek street food, this souvlaki recipe delivers — every single time.