Smashed Greek Pita is a quick Mediterranean-inspired sandwich that combines seasoned ground beef smashed and crisped directly onto pita bread, then topped with fresh romaine, herbs, and a tzatziki-lemon dressing. It delivers gyro flavors with a satisfying crispy-exterior patty in under 30 minutes.
Delivery in as fast as one hour.*
Prices vary by store
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In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions. Take one portion and press it into a thin, even layer across the surface of one pita bread.
Heat a large skillet over high heat. Place the pita meat-side down into the hot pan.
Press down firmly on the pita, like making a smash burger, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the meat is golden brown and cooked through.
Flip the pita and cook for another 5-10 seconds to warm the bread. Remove from the pan and set aside. Repeat with the remaining pitas.
To make the salad, combine the shredded romaine, chopped parsley, fresh dill, sliced red onion, pepperoncini, and crumbled feta cheese in a mixing bowl.
For the dressing, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad and add the tzatziki sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
To assemble, place a generous amount of the Greek salad on top of the cooked meat on the pita.
Garnish with fresh tomato slices, an extra sprinkle of feta, and freshly ground black pepper if desired. Fold and serve immediately.
Cooked meat patties can be refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently in a pan. Assemble with fresh toppings only just before eating.
Yes. Form and season the ground beef patties up to 4 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Smash and pan-fry directly from the fridge for best crust formation.
Use medium-high heat and press the patty firmly onto the pita with a spatula for 2–3 minutes per side. Don't move it around; let it make contact with the hot pan to develop a golden crust.
Absolutely. Store-bought tzatziki works well; just thin it with lemon juice and a pinch of oregano to match the fresh dressing flavor.
Yes. Grill the pita lightly first to warm it, then grill the meat patty separately and assemble on the pita to avoid the bread burning.
Toast or warm the pita before adding the meat, and dress the salad separately just before serving. Assemble immediately before eating.
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