Biftekia (Baked Greek Beef Patties): A Flavorful and Hearty Mediterranean Dish

Biftekia are traditional Greek beef patties, often compared to burgers, but with a unique Mediterranean twist. These flavorful patties are packed with herbs and spices, making them juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Baked to perfection, they are a healthier option compared to fried versions. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or grilling them at a summer BBQ, Biftekia are sure to be a hit with everyone. Paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad, these Greek beef patties are the perfect comfort food.

Why Biftekia are So Special

Biftekia holds a special place in Greek cuisine, often prepared for Sunday dinners or festive occasions. The combination of fresh ground beef, Mediterranean herbs, and olive oil gives these patties a delicious flavor that’s distinctive yet familiar. What makes Biftekia different from regular burgers is the use of fresh mint, parsley, garlic, and sometimes even a hint of grated cheese, which all come together to create an aromatic, savory treat.

Healthy and Flavorful

One of the things that makes Biftekia stand out is that they’re baked, not fried. Baking them gives a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional fried patties, while still maintaining a crispy exterior and juicy interior. By using lean ground beef and fresh herbs, these patties offer a protein-packed, nutrient-rich meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

How to Make Biftekia (Baked Greek Beef Patties)

Making Biftekia is easier than you might think, and the result is so worth it. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of prep, you’ll have a dish that brings the authentic taste of Greece right into your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixture:
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh mint, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, oregano, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly until it’s evenly combined.
2. Shape the Patties:
   Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into small portions and shape them into oval or round patties. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. You should be able to make about 8 small patties or 6 larger ones.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent the patties from sticking.
4. Bake the Patties:
   Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet or dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through and browned on the outside. If you want a crispier exterior, broil the patties for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once the Biftekia are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with additional parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Biftekia

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like mint and parsley make all the difference in the flavor of these beef patties. Dried herbs are a great substitute if fresh herbs aren’t available, but fresh herbs add brightness and a fresh fragrance.
• Grill Option: If you prefer, you can grill the patties instead of baking them. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
• Serve with Tzatziki: Serve your Biftekia with a side of homemade tzatziki sauce. The creamy cucumber and yogurt sauce is the perfect complement to the savory patties.
• Make Them Ahead: You can shape the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking or grilling. This also allows the flavors to marinate and deepen.

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FAQs

1. Can I use ground lamb instead of beef for Biftekia?
Yes! Ground lamb is often used in Greek cuisine and would give a slightly richer flavor to the patties. You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb in this recipe.

2. Can I make Biftekia with chicken or turkey?
Absolutely! You can make a lighter version of Biftekia by using ground chicken or turkey. Keep in mind that leaner meats might need extra seasoning to keep the patties juicy and flavorful.

3. What can I serve with Biftekia?
Biftekia pairs wonderfully with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or even fluffy rice. You can also serve it with pita bread and a side of creamy tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Biftekia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the oven or on a stovetop in a skillet.

5. Can I freeze Biftekia?
Yes, you can freeze the patties! Shape the patties and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake or grill straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

6. Can I make Biftekia without breadcrumbs?
Yes, if you want to make gluten-free Biftekia, you can replace the breadcrumbs with ground rice, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or even crushed almonds for a different texture.

7. Can I add cheese to the Biftekia mixture?
Yes, you can add a bit of crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Feta pairs beautifully with the herbs and spices in the Biftekia.

8. How do I know when Biftekia are cooked through?
Biftekia are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also check for doneness by cutting one open; the meat should be brown all the way through with no pink.

9. Can I serve Biftekia with a salad?
Yes, Greek-style salads are the perfect accompaniment. Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta make a refreshing contrast to the savory beef patties.

10. Can I grill Biftekia instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Biftekia can be grilled instead of baked. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through.