Beef Giouvetsi (Braised Beef and Orzo)

Beef Giouvetsi is a classic Greek dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with fragrant spices, combined with orzo pasta for a hearty, comforting meal. Cooked on the stovetop, this version is quicker than the traditional oven-baked method but still delivers the same thick, glazy texture reminiscent of risotto.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A wholesome, one-pot Greek comfort dish that’s filling and flavorful.

• Uses simple ingredients like beef, orzo, tomatoes, and warm spices.

• The stovetop method is faster and less fussy than oven-baked versions.

• Rich in protein and perfect for family dinners.

• Can be easily customized with different meats or extra vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless beef chuck, chuck roll, or flatiron cut, cubed

• Ground allspice

• Salt and pepper

• Nutmeg

• Olive oil

• Red onion, minced

• Tomato paste

• Red wine

• Whole peeled canned tomatoes (or fresh, grated)

• Beef or vegetable stock

• Sweet paprika

• Bay leaves

• Orzo pasta

• Optional: grated Kefalotyri cheese for serving

Directions

1. Blend the canned or fresh tomatoes until smooth.

2. Pat the beef cubes dry and season with salt, pepper, allspice, and nutmeg.

3. Heat olive oil in a sauté pan and brown the beef on all sides.

4. Lower the heat, add onions, and cook until softened. Stir in tomato paste and cook until caramelized.

5. Deglaze the pan with red wine, let the alcohol evaporate, then add the blended tomatoes.

6. Pour in the stock and two cups of boiling water. Add paprika and bay leaves. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 hour, until beef is tender.

7. Add two more cups of boiling water, season, and stir in the orzo. Simmer covered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally so pasta doesn’t stick.

8. Remove from heat, let rest for a couple of minutes, then serve topped with grated cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3 people.
Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Replace beef with lamb, pork, or chicken for different flavors.

• Add a cinnamon stick for a slightly sweet, aromatic note.

• Stir in diced carrots or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

• Use large orzo for a more pasta-like dish, or medium orzo for a risotto-like texture.

• Make it vegetarian by swapping the beef with mushrooms and using vegetable stock.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or stock, since orzo continues to absorb liquid and thickens as it sits. This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking for its saucy consistency.

FAQs

What is giouvetsi?

Giouvetsi is a traditional Greek dish made with meat, tomato sauce, and orzo pasta, often cooked in the oven or on the stovetop.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, giouvetsi can be made with lamb, chicken, or pork as well as beef.

Why is my giouvetsi too thick?

Orzo absorbs liquid even after cooking. Add a splash of boiling water or stock when reheating to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, giouvetsi is traditionally baked. Simply transfer everything to a baking dish and finish it in the oven instead of on the stovetop.

Do I need to marinate the beef?

Not required, but marinating in a mix of red wine and water for a couple of hours can make the beef extra tender.

What cheese goes best on giouvetsi?

Grated Kefalotyri or Kefalograviera are traditional, but feta is also a great option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and sauce in advance, then add the orzo just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Can I freeze giouvetsi?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze the beef and sauce without orzo. Add fresh orzo when reheating.

What’s the difference between giouvetsi and manestra?

Giouvetsi includes meat, while manestra is the simpler vegetarian version made with orzo and tomato sauce.

What wine works best?

A dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the rich tomato sauce beautifully.

Conclusion

Beef Giouvetsi is a hearty Greek classic that combines tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and orzo pasta into a satisfying, comforting meal. Easy to prepare on the stovetop and customizable with different meats or spices, this dish is perfect for both everyday dinners and special family gatherings. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of cheese, and enjoy a taste of Greece at your table.

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