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Bifteki holds a cherished place at Greek grillhouses and family gatherings. These seasoned beef patties, often shaped into oblong burgers, bring together familiar grill flavors with a distinctly Mediterranean twist. At first bite one encounters a symphony of aromatic herbs and spices — typically oregano, parsley, and a hint of garlic — that infuse the meat with bright, savory notes. Many Greek cooks tuck a cube of melting cheese inside each bifteki before cooking, so each patty hides a creamy surprise amidst the meaty center. As the patties sizzle on the grill or in the pan, the kitchen fills with the mouthwatering smell of grilling beef and herbs.
A long-time favorite in Greece, bifteki speaks to both traditional home cooking and casual tavern dining. One might find it served alongside classic sides such as roasted lemon potatoes, a crisp Greek salad of tomato and cucumber, or wrapped in warm pita bread with cool tzatziki sauce. The dish’s heritage stretches back through the Mediterranean’s culinary history. Similar ground-meat dishes were enjoyed across Europe, and Greece adapted the idea using its own pantry staples. The name itself hints at its roots: bifteki derives from the French word bifteck, meaning “beefsteak.” Yet in Greek form it became a humble, universally loved dish, reflecting local flavors like olive oil and oregano.
In modern Greek kitchens, bifteki remains a symbol of comfort and celebration. It suits lively backyard cookouts or family dinner tables alike. The cooking method is flexible: patties can be grilled over coals, seared in a skillet, or baked in the oven. Each approach yields slightly different results — grilling adds charred flavor, pan-searing creates a caramelized crust, and baking allows hands-free cooking with minimal oil. Regardless of method, all share the hallmark of well-seasoned meat. The addition of feta or kasseri cheese stuffed inside adds tang and richness, balancing the herbs with a salty creaminess. When served, bifteki is often garnished with a squeeze of lemon and a sprig of parsley for freshness.
This recipe yields tender, flavorful bifteki that are straightforward to prepare. Ground beef is mixed with minced onion, garlic, fresh parsley, dried oregano, and a binding combination of egg and breadcrumbs. Small cubes of Greek cheese can be pressed into each patty for a gooey center. The patties are then grilled or pan-seared until golden brown outside and juicy inside. Serve them hot with classic garnishes: lemon wedges, tzatziki sauce, and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil. The contrast of crisp char, melting cheese, and vibrant herbs makes each bite memorable.
Table of Contents
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes400
kcalJuicy ground beef patties are flavored with garlic, onion, parsley, and oregano, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection. Each bifteki is optionally stuffed with a cube of feta or kasseri cheese, which melts into the patty as it cooks. Ready in about 30 minutes, these Greek-style burgers make a savory, family-friendly meal. Serve with refreshing tzatziki, warm pita bread, or a simple salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 mix): Provides rich flavor and moisture. (Substitute lean ground lamb or turkey for a lighter version.)
1 small onion, finely grated: Adds sweetness and moisture to the meat. (Swap for a tablespoon of onion powder if needed.)
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings classic savory depth. (Adjust to taste; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.)
1 large egg: Binds the mixture so patties hold together. (For an egg-free version, use a flaxseed egg.)
½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps absorb juices and bind the meat. (Use gluten-free crumbs or crushed rice crackers for a GF option.)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers bright herbal freshness. (Dried parsley works if fresh is unavailable, though flavor is stronger fresh.)
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A signature Mediterranean herb that boosts the meat’s flavor.
1 teaspoon dried mint (optional): Adds a subtle cool note if available.
Salt (about 1 teaspoon) and freshly ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Key seasonings.
4 oz (about ½ cup) Greek cheese, cut into small cubes: Traditional choices include feta, kasseri, or graviera. (Omit or substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.)
Olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying): Prevents sticking and adds light flavor.
Lemon wedges and tzatziki sauce (for serving): Classic accompaniments.
Combine the ingredients. In a large bowl, mix ground beef with grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, mint (if using), egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper until evenly combined (about 2 minutes).
Shape the patties. Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a patty (about ¾ inch thick) on a plate. Place a small cube of cheese in the center of each patty, then fold the meat around it and reshape into a patty, sealing the cheese inside (5 minutes).
Preheat cooking surface. Lightly oil and heat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. The surface should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact.
Cook the bifteki. Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook until well browned on the first side (about 5–7 minutes). Flip and cook 5–7 minutes more, until the patties are cooked through (internal temperature ~160°F) and the cheese has melted inside.
Rest the patties. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps the meat juicy.
Arrange the bifteki on a platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or salad.
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 400 kcal |
Fat | 30 g |
Protein | 26 g |
Carbohydrates | 8 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Sodium | 500 mg |
Allergens | Egg, Gluten, Dairy |
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