Name: Beef Giouvetsi: A Classic Greek Comfort Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp ground allspice; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity); 1 1/2 cups orzo pasta; 2 cups hot water or beef broth (as needed for cooking orzo)

Jump to Recipe

Beef Giouvetsi is a hearty, comforting Greek dish that brings together tender beef and orzo pasta in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for those looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy with loved ones or impress guests with a flavorful homemade dish. The combination of beef, spices, and the slight sweetness of tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that is both familiar and comforting.

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, yet it results in a mouthwatering, slow-cooked meal that is ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or hosting a gathering, Beef Giouvetsi is sure to become a favorite on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: The tender beef and rich sauce, combined with orzo pasta, creates a perfect, filling meal for any occasion.
Packed with Flavor: The blend of cinnamon, allspice, and bay leaves gives the dish a warm, aromatic flavor that is uniquely Greek.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required since this dish is made in one pot, making it as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to your taste or swap in your preferred cuts of beef.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen after resting, making Beef Giouvetsi even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce:

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 cinnamon stick
2 bay leaves
1 tsp ground allspice
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Pasta:

1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
2 cups hot water or beef broth (as needed)

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with mushrooms or eggplant to create a vegetarian-friendly version of Giouvetsi.
Add Vegetables: Add carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish to boost the nutritional content.
Different Meat Options: Lamb or pork can also be used in place of beef for a different take on the traditional recipe.

How to Make Beef Giouvetsi

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor that will infuse the dish. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine, then add the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, ground allspice, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Beef

Return the browned beef to the pot and stir it into the sauce. Cover and let the beef simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Prepare the Orzo Pasta

While the beef is simmering, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 6: Combine the Beef and Pasta

Once the beef is tender, remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Add the cooked orzo pasta to the pot with the beef and sauce, stirring to combine. If the sauce is too thick, you can add hot water or more beef broth to adjust the consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Beef Giouvetsi hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or oregano if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for Success

Browning the Beef: Take the time to brown the beef properly to develop a deep, rich flavor for the sauce.
Adjusting the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, add extra broth or water.
Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Make it a One-Pot Meal: For even easier preparation, cook the orzo pasta directly in the sauce once the beef is done, adding extra liquid as needed.

How to Serve

Beef Giouvetsi is best served hot and fresh. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some freshly baked bread to soak up the savory sauce. It’s also excellent with a side of roasted vegetables or grilled pita.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Beef Giouvetsi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, and it often tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

Beef Giouvetsi freezes well for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a little extra liquid if needed.

Reheating

To reheat, place the dish in a pot over low heat and stir occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can cook the beef in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low. Brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic before transferring them to the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While orzo is traditional, other small pasta shapes such as ditalini or small shells can also be used.

3. Can I substitute the beef with chicken?

You can substitute the beef with chicken, though the flavor and cooking time will vary. Chicken thighs would be a good choice for a similar texture.

4. What should I serve with Beef Giouvetsi?

Serve Beef Giouvetsi with a Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or pita bread to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To make this dish spicier, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the sauce.

6. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Frozen beef can be used, but it’s best to thaw it before browning. Cooking frozen beef directly may affect the texture and flavor of the dish.

7. How do I know when the beef is done?

The beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart. Simmer it until the beef reaches this texture.

8. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or a hearty vegetable like eggplant, and use vegetable broth.

9. Can I prepare Beef Giouvetsi in advance?

Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for longer to reduce it, or add a slurry of flour and water to thicken.

Conclusion

Beef Giouvetsi is a delicious, comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With its tender beef, rich sauce, and hearty pasta, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, Beef Giouvetsi is a meal you’ll return to again and again.