Mouthwatering Gyro Pizza Recipe with Tzatziki Drizzle

Sink your teeth into a slice of the Mediterranean with this tantalizing recipe for Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle. Picture this: a warm, chewy crust topped with juicy gyro slices, vibrant roasted veggies, and a generous drizzle of creamy tzatziki. It’s a fusion of Greek flavors and pizza night comfort that’s both impressive and delightfully messy.

The inspiration for this delectable creation struck me during a visit to a bustling Greek market. Recreating those bold flavors at home has turned into a beloved tradition for our Friday nights, elevating our pizza game from ordinary to extraordinary. There’s something magical about the creamy tzatziki nestled beneath the toppings, especially when shared with loved ones – like the time my nephews gleefully helped spread the yogurt sauce over the dough.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or craving a special treat, this Gyro Pizza is a must-try. Don’t worry if you have leftovers; they store well for a few days and can be reheated to recapture that fresh-out-of-the-oven magic. And if you’re short on time, feel free to customize with lamb slices, grilled chicken, or gluten-free crust options. So, gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of this delightful pizza, and savor the flavors and memories with each savory bite.

Quick Benefits

• Vibrant Mediterranean flavors combined with the comfort of a classic pizza night
• Creamy tzatziki drizzle adds a refreshing and tangy element to the pizza
• Versatile recipe allows for substitutions like lamb or grilled chicken for gyro meat
• Leftovers can be stored and reheated easily for a quick and convenient meal

Why You’ll Love This Mouthwatering Gyro Pizza Recipe with Tzatziki Drizzle Recipe

• Your taste buds will be transported to the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with each bite of this gyro pizza.
• The combination of warm, chewy crust, juicy gyro slices, creamy tzatziki, and roasted vegetables creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• This recipe is perfect for a special dinner night or a fun family meal, offering both sophistication and comfort in one dish.
• The creamy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing and tangy layer to the pizza, enhancing the overall taste experience.
• Leftovers can be stored easily and reheated for a quick and delicious meal solution.
• You can customize this recipe with different proteins like lamb, beef, or grilled chicken, making it versatile and adaptable to your preferences.
• The Greek-inspired toppings like feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and artichoke hearts add depth and richness to the pizza.
• The playful fusion of Greek gyro and Italian pizza traditions creates a unique and mouthwatering dish.
• Serving this gyro pizza with a Greek salad, marinated olives, and a refreshing drink completes the Mediterranean dining experience.
• The fresh lemon juice adds a zesty finish to the pizza, tying all the flavors together in a delightful way.

Ingredients for Mouthwatering Gyro Pizza Recipe with Tzatziki Drizzle

Dough

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
• 180 ml warm water, approximately 43°C
• 7 g instant (quick rise) yeast
• 280 g all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

Toppings

• 4 tablespoons Greek marinade or Greek-style dressing
• 5 artichoke hearts, sliced
• 12 strips cooked gyro meat, chopped
• 2 portabella mushrooms, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 0.5 small red onion or shallot, sliced into rings
• 1 English cucumber, thinly sliced (optional for topping)
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 0.25 red or orange bell pepper, sliced into rings
• 3 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced
• Black pepper, to taste
• 240 ml plain Greek yogurt
• Salt, to taste
• 8 cherry tomatoes, sliced

Pro Tips for Mouthwatering Gyro Pizza Recipe with Tzatziki Drizzle

For a perfect gyro pizza with tzatziki drizzle, preheat your oven and pizza stone thoroughly to ensure a crispy crust. Starting at a high temperature and switching to broil near the end will help achieve that ideal golden-brown finish. Don’t forget to try thinly sliced cooked lamb, beef, or grilled chicken as delicious alternatives to gyro meat while keeping the Greek-inspired flavors intact.

To make a creamy and flavorful tzatziki, opt for full-fat Greek yogurt and mix it with fresh dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Let the tzatziki chill to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, roasting cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts with olive oil before adding them as toppings will enhance their sweetness and texture. Lastly, consider adding tangy and salty feta cheese to complement the gyro meat and roasted vegetables perfectly. These pro tips will ensure your gyro pizza is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and pizza night flavors.

How to Make Mouthwatering Gyro Pizza Recipe with Tzatziki Drizzle

Step 1: Activate Yeast

Combine warm water with instant yeast and let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Prepare Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add olive oil and mix until a crumbly texture forms. Create a well in the center, pour in the yeast mixture, and mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead and Proof

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Pizza Stone

Preheat oven with a pizza stone under the broiler set to high for 30 minutes, then reduce heat to 190°C and continue preheating for another 30 minutes.

Step 5: Roast Tomatoes and Artichokes

Place cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley. Roast on a pizza stone at 400°F for 10-15 minutes until tomatoes shrink and artichokes brown.

Step 6: Mix Tzatziki Sauce

Combine Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. Chill before assembling.

Step 7: Second Dough Proof

Deflate the dough, knead briefly on a floured surface, shape into a disk, and let rise for 10–30 minutes.

Step 8: Shape and Prepare Base

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to the desired thickness. If not using a wooden slide, sprinkle cornmeal on a wooden board or pizza stone and shape the dough into a round or square.

Step 9: Spread Sauces

Coat the dough with 1–2 tablespoons of Greek marinade, then evenly spread three-quarters of the tzatziki sauce, leaving a border around the crust.

Step 10: Add Toppings

Arrange the gyro meat, mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, artichokes, sliced onion, and bell pepper on top of the dough in layers.

Step 11: Bake

Bake at 190°C for 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted. Broil for 5–10 minutes until crust is golden brown and pizza is cooked through.

Step 12: Garnish and Serve

Place cucumber slices on top and drizzle with the remaining tzatziki sauce before serving.

Storage Tips

After indulging in the delightful gyro pizza with tzatziki drizzle, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To prevent sticking, layer parchment paper between the slices. When reheating, place a wedge in a hot oven or skillet until the cheese bubbles and the crust crisps again. While microwaving is an option, it may compromise the texture of the pizza.

If you are short on time, consider using flatbread as a shortcut for the crust. Lamb slices or grilled chicken are delicious alternatives to traditional gyro meat. For a gluten-free option, use a blend of gluten-free flour with a touch of xanthan gum to achieve a surprisingly chewy crust. In the absence of Greek yogurt, a mixture of sour cream and a splash of milk can substitute for the tzatziki sauce.

To elevate your gyro pizza experience, serve it alongside a Greek salad, marinated olives, and a refreshing beverage like lemonade or crisp white wine. For a party, cut the pizza into small squares to serve as warm appetizers with extra tzatziki for dipping. This recipe beautifully combines the flavors of Greek street food with the casual charm of Italian American pizza, creating a dish that celebrates cultural connections with every bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions for this Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle recipe, there are a few options you can consider. For a quicker version, using flatbread as a crust is a great shortcut. You can also swap traditional gyro meat with thinly sliced cooked lamb, beef, or even grilled chicken to maintain the Greek-inspired flavor profile. If you are looking to make the tzatziki sauce and are out of Greek yogurt, you can use a mix of sour cream and a splash of milk as a substitute.

Additionally, if you don’t have all the exact vegetables listed, feel free to be flexible with what you have on hand. Consider using different types of bell peppers, mushrooms, or even adding in some olives for extra flavor. Feta cheese is a great addition for a tangy, salty note that complements the gyro meat and vegetables well. Remember to adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your taste preferences. Enjoy the process of experimenting with different ingredients to make this recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist, try serving the Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle as individual mini pizzas during your next gathering. Set up a DIY pizza station with pre-portioned dough rounds and an array of toppings for guests to customize their own mini masterpieces. Don’t forget to include extra tzatziki for dipping these delicious personal-sized pizzas!

Another creative way to enjoy this Gyro Pizza is to turn it into a pizza roll-up. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki over the flatbread or pizza dough, layer on the gyro meat, roasted vegetables, and feta cheese. Roll it up tightly, slice into pinwheels, and secure with toothpicks for a portable and tasty snack or appetizer. The flavors meld together beautifully in this convenient and handheld version of the classic Gyro Pizza.

FAQs for Mouthwatering Gyro Pizza Recipe with Tzatziki Drizzle

Can I use a different type of meat instead of gyro meat?

Yes, you can try thinly sliced cooked lamb, beef, or even grilled chicken to maintain the Greek-inspired flavor profile.

How do I make the tzatziki sauce for this gyro pizza?

Use full-fat Greek yogurt, blend with fresh dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, and allow it to chill for the flavors to meld.

Should I roast the cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts before adding them to the pizza?

Yes, roast cherry tomatoes and artichoke hearts with olive oil before adding to bring out sweetness and enhance texture.

What can I use as a substitute for feta cheese in this recipe?

Feta cheese offers a tangy, salty note that complements gyro meat and vegetables well. You can use a similar cheese like goat cheese or a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella for a different twist.

Conclusion

Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle is a culinary delight that marries the best of Greek and Italian flavors. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, perfect for family pizza nights or entertaining guests. The medley of gyro meat, roasted vegetables, and creamy tzatziki drizzle creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

Remember, don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings or variations to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for lamb slices, grilled chicken, or your favorite veggies, the Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle is a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious pizza, and savor the joy of sharing good food and great memories around the table. Cheers to delicious homemade creations like this Gyro Pizza with Tzatziki Drizzle that bring us all together in the spirit of good food and good company.