Get ready to savor the bold flavors and aromas of Greece with these 18 mouthwatering lamb recipes! From classic souvlaki to hearty stews, we’ve got you covered for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or just want to spice up your weeknight meals, these Greek lamb recipes are sure to delight.
From tender and juicy lamb chops smothered in garlic and rosemary to savory lamb moussaka with eggplant and béchamel, each dish is a taste of the Mediterranean. And don’t even get us started on the souvlaki – who can resist the allure of succulent lamb skewers served with creamy tzatziki sauce?
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Greece, exploring a range of recipes that showcase the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Greek Lamb Souvlaki with Tzatziki
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Greece, featuring tender lamb souvlaki paired with a refreshing and tangy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
For the souvlaki:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the tzatziki:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add lamb pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or broil lamb until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve souvlaki with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Roasted Greek Lamb Shoulder with Lemon and Oregano
A classic Mediterranean dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner. This slow-roasted lamb shoulder is infused with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon and the earthy warmth of oregano.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder, bone-in
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp dried oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the lamb shoulder in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven. Pour the lemon-herb mixture over the lamb, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Roast the lamb for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Greek Lamb Gyros with Homemade Pita Bread
Experience the classic taste of Greece with this simple recipe for lamb gyros wrapped in warm, freshly baked pita bread. Juicy lamb and crispy vegetables come together in a delicious union that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the lamb:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the pita bread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb ingredients and mix well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, make the pita bread dough by combining flour, warm water, yeast, and salt. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces and shape each into a ball.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Grill or bake pita bread for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
8. Assemble gyros by spreading lamb mixture onto the pita bread, topping with tomato, onion, cucumber, and feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Feta and Mint
Experience the authentic flavors of Greece with these tender lamb meatballs infused with the brightness of fresh mint and the tanginess of crumbled feta. Serve as an appetizer or add to your favorite Greek-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, mint, garlic, feta, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Moussaka with Eggplant and Béchamel
A classic Greek dish that combines the rich flavors of lamb, eggplant, and creamy béchamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the lamb over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the tomato puree and oregano; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, brush both sides of the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. In a separate baking dish, create layers of lamb mixture, eggplant, and béchamel sauce, ending with a layer of béchamel on top.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in milk and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer; cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Greek Lamb Chops with Garlic and Rosemary
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Marinated lamb chops are infused with aromatic garlic and rosemary, perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
3. Place lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush the marinade on both sides of each chop.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove lamb from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook lamb chops in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Greek Lamb Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmades)
Discover the classic flavors of Greece with this tender and savory recipe for dolmades, where juicy lamb and aromatic spices are wrapped in grape leaves. A perfect appetizer or main course for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20-25 grape leaves (fresh or jarred)
– Olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, onion, rice, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the lamb mixture onto the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Arrange dolmades seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until grape leaves are tender. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Lamb and Orzo Bake (Youvetsi)
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Greece with a rich lamb and orzo filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add orzo pasta, chicken broth, feta cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until orzo is tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Kebabs with Yogurt Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these tender lamb kebabs marinated in a refreshing yogurt-based mixture, perfectly balanced by zesty herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 500g lamb shoulder or leg, cut into 2.5cm cubes
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the lamb cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread lamb onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Stew with Tomatoes and Cinnamon
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of lamb, tomatoes, and cinnamon, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its aromatic spices and tender meat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, lamb, diced tomatoes, broth, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Greek Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki and Feta
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Greece in a juicy lamb burger, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce and crumbled feta cheese. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
– Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4 patties. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve on hamburger buns with tzatziki sauce and crumbled feta cheese.
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Lamb and Spinach Pie (Spanakopita with Lamb)
This classic Greek dish combines the rich flavors of lamb and spinach in a crispy, buttery pastry. A perfect main course or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook lamb until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked lamb mixture, feta cheese, olive oil, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
7. Spoon the lamb-spinach mixture into the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
8. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
9. Brush the top with melted butter and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Lamb Shank with Lemon and Garlic
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of lamb shank with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lamb shanks
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add lamb shanks to the marinade and coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove lamb from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, or until lamb is tender and falls-off-the-bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Greek Lamb and Potato Bake
A hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender lamb with crispy potatoes and a hint of Mediterranean spice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb pieces, potatoes, garlic, onion, olives, olive oil, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until lamb is tender.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
Greek Lamb Pita Wraps with Cucumber Salad
Experience the flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 4 pita breads
– Cucumber Salad (see below)
– Optional: tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, and salt. Add the lamb strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake the lamb for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a few slices of lamb onto each pita, followed by cucumber salad.
Cucumber Salad:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Greek Lamb and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Experience the flavors of Greece with this delightful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Aromatic lamb and crumbly feta cheese combine to create a savory filling that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground lamb
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place 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 chopped onion, garlic, and oregano to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the lamb mixture, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Lamb Ribs with Honey and Oregano Glaze
A classic Greek-inspired dish gets a sweet and savory twist with the addition of honey and oregano glaze. This recipe yields tender, fall-off-the-bone lamb ribs smothered in a sticky, aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds lamb ribs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped oregano
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place lamb ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
5. While lamb is roasting, combine honey, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of water in a small saucepan.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until glaze thickens slightly, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Remove lamb from oven and brush with the honey-oregano glaze.
8. Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Lamb and Lentil Soup (Fakes)
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of lamb, lentils, and Greek spices. This traditional recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups lamb broth (or beef broth)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the lamb, onions, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little oil until browned.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 45 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Greece with these 18 mouthwatering lamb recipes! From classic souvlaki and gyros to hearty stews and casseroles, this collection has something for every occasion. Discover how to slow-roast a tender shoulder, stuff grape leaves with juicy lamb, or bake a delicious shank with lemon and garlic. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these authentic Greek recipes will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast. So go ahead, fire up the grill or heat up the oven, and get ready to devour some unforgettable flavors!