When it comes to flavorful and aromatic meat dishes, Greek lamb recipes are a staple. With its rich history and cultural heritage, Greece has developed a unique cuisine that combines bold flavors with simple ingredients. Lamb is a popular choice in many Greek dishes, and when combined with herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, it’s hard to resist the allure of these mouthwatering recipes. Whether you’re looking for classic souvlaki or something more adventurous like lamb tacos, there’s a recipe here that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Greece.
From hearty stews and braises to grilled skewers and burgers, Greek lamb recipes offer endless possibilities for a delicious meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 authentic and mouthwatering Greek lamb recipes that showcase the best of this beloved ingredient. From tender shoulder cuts to flavorful ground meatballs, each recipe is a testament to Greece’s rich culinary tradition.
Classic Greek Lamb Souvlaki
Classic Greek Lamb Souvlaki: A flavorful and aromatic street food-inspired dish that combines tender lamb with a hint of Mediterranean spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add lamb cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill souvlaki for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lamb is cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Serve hot with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Slow-Roasted Greek Lamb Shoulder
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this tender and aromatic slow-roasted lamb shoulder recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 kg lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb shoulder in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven, fat side up.
5. Roast the lamb for 4-5 hours, or until tender and falling apart.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Greek Lamb Moussaka with Bechamel Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this hearty and satisfying lamb moussaka recipe, topped with a creamy bechamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– Bechamel Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground lamb until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, tomato puree, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is well combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange lasagna noodles in a single layer.
6. Spoon the lamb mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of bechamel sauce (see below).
7. Repeat steps 5-6 two more times, ending with a layer of bechamel sauce on top.
8. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Bechamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Melt butter in a medium saucepan, then whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Grilled Greek Lamb Chops with Lemon and Oregano
This classic Greek-inspired dish is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy lamb chops, bright lemon zest, and pungent oregano creates a flavorful and aromatic meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh oregano, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, olive oil, and chopped oregano.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the lemon-oregano mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness.
6. Let lamb rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total
Greek Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
Greek Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with this classic lamb gyro recipe paired with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
For the gyros:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
For the tzatziki sauce:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into 4-6 patties depending on desired size.
4. Grill the lamb for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for a few minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by slicing lamb, adding tzatziki sauce, tomato, onion, cucumber, and feta cheese (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Greek Leg of Lamb
This show-stopping leg of lamb recipe combines the flavors of Greece with a fragrant herb crust, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With its tender and juicy texture, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless leg of lamb
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest.
3. Rub the mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the leg of lamb in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the lamb during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1-2 hours, depending on the size and desired doneness of the leg of lamb.
Greek Lamb Kebabs with Vegetables
Savor the flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe that combines tender lamb, colorful vegetables, and a hint of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb shoulder or neck fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large zucchinis, cut into 1-inch slices
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon zest.
3. Add lamb cubes and toss to coat.
4. Thread lamb, onion, bell peppers, zucchinis, and any other favorite vegetables onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until lamb is cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Stew with Tomatoes and Olives
This hearty stew is a classic representation of Greek cuisine, filled with tender lamb, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives. A warm and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups lamb broth or beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove lamb; add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return lamb to pot; pour in broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Greek Lamb Stuffed Grape Leaves
Discover the flavors of Greece with this traditional recipe for Dolmades, also known as stuffed grape leaves. This classic dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem end facing you.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the lamb mixture onto the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
7. Add the stuffed grape leaves, seam-side down, and cook for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Greek Lamb Meatballs in Tomato Sauce: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of lamb with the tanginess of tomato sauce, all wrapped up in a warm pita bread or served over Greek rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve warm with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Burgers with Feta and Mint
Elevate your burger game with these Greek-inspired lamb patties, featuring crumbly feta cheese and a refreshing hint of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, red onion, and tzatziki sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Top each burger with crumbled feta cheese and chopped mint leaves.
6. Serve on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Lamb Shank with Orzo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of lamb shank, aromatic spices, and nutty orzo pasta for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lamb shank
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Sear lamb shank until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic, orzo pasta, chicken broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return lamb shank to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender and orzo is cooked.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Greek Lamb Pita Wraps with Yogurt Dressing
These tender lamb pita wraps are filled with juicy grilled lamb, crunchy veggies, and creamy yogurt dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder, thinly sliced
– 4 whole wheat pitas
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season lamb with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast pitas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for 2 minutes.
4. Assemble wraps by placing grilled lamb, cucumber, bell pepper, feta cheese, and yogurt dressing (see below) inside each pita.
Yogurt Dressing:
1. Mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic clove in a bowl.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lamb and Eggplant Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender lamb, flavorful eggplant, and aromatic spices to create a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add eggplant, onion, garlic, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes or until eggplant is tender.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lamb is cooked through and casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Greek Lamb Sausage with Lemon and Garlic
A flavorful twist on traditional lamb sausage, this recipe combines the rich taste of lamb with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Greek lamb sausage
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and garlic.
3. Remove lamb sausage from casings and place on a plate or tray.
4. Brush the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the lamb sausage.
5. Place the sausages on the preheated grill or oven rack and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Greek Lamb and Spinach Pie
This classic Greek dish combines tender lamb, fresh spinach, and savory feta cheese in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb, onion, and garlic until lamb is browned.
3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with lamb mixture, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Top with feta cheese and brush edges of crust with beaten egg.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Tacos with Tzatziki and Feta
Experience the flavors of Greece in a unique taco twist! This recipe combines juicy lamb, crunchy tzatziki sauce, crumbly feta cheese, and fresh cilantro for a delicious and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Feta cheese, crumbled
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, onion, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into 8-10 small patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing a lamb patty onto a tortilla, topping with tzatziki sauce, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped cilantro.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Ribs with Honey Glaze
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering dish featuring tender lamb ribs smothered in a sweet and tangy honey glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 rack of lamb ribs (about 4-6 bones)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Place lamb ribs in a large baking dish and brush the honey glaze all over them.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast lamb ribs for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Lamb and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Greek combination of tender lamb, creamy chickpeas, and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Serve with crusty bread and a side salad for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chickpeas, beef broth, white wine (if using), oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the browned lamb back into the pot, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Greek Lamb and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Add a Mediterranean twist to your stuffed pepper game with this flavorful recipe! Juicy lamb, tangy feta, and crunchy bell peppers come together for a hearty and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook lamb over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, and olive oil to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the lamb mixture and top with feta cheese.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors of Greece with these 20 mouthwatering lamb recipes. From classic souvlaki and moussaka to hearty stews and kebabs, each dish showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage. Discover how to slow-roast a tender shoulder, grill chops with a zesty lemon-oregano glaze, or stuff grape leaves with aromatic lamb. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a quick weeknight dinner, or a show-stopping main course, these authentic Greek lamb recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to the Mediterranean.
