Beef Giouvets

Beef Giouvets is a traditional Greek baked dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce and baked with orzo pasta. This hearty, one-pan meal is rustic, full of Mediterranean flavor, and perfect for family-style dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Greek comfort food
• Rich tomato and beef flavor
• One-pan convenience
• Perfect for family gatherings
• Great make-ahead meal
• Warm, aromatic, and satisfying

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef chuck or stew meat (cubed)
• Olive oil
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Canned tomatoes or tomato puree
• Beef broth
• Orzo pasta
• Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon
• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a Dutch oven, sear beef in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot until softened.
4. Add beef back to the pot along with tomatoes, broth, cinnamon, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 30 minutes on the stovetop.
6. Stir in orzo, then transfer the pot to the oven.
7. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes or until orzo is tender and liquid is absorbed.
8. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Use lamb instead of beef for a more traditional version
• Add carrots or bell peppers for extra vegetables
• Top with crumbled feta before serving
• Use rice if orzo is unavailable

storage/reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven with a splash of broth or microwave until hot

FAQs

What is Giouvets?

It is a Greek dish of beef or lamb baked with orzo in a tomato-based sauce.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the beef and sauce first, then add orzo at the end.

Is cinnamon necessary?

Yes, it adds a signature warm Greek flavor.

What cut of beef is best?

Chuck or stew meat works well due to its tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I use rice instead of orzo?

Yes, but adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it is savory and aromatic with mild flavors.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

What sides go well with it?

Serve with crusty bread or a Greek salad.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

How do I avoid overcooked orzo?

Add orzo only when ready to bake and monitor the liquid absorption.

Conclusion

Beef Giouvets is a wholesome and traditional Greek dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity. With tender beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and perfectly baked orzo, this is a timeless recipe that brings Mediterranean warmth to your dinner table.

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