Easy Beef Kofta Recipe (Juicy Oven-Baked or Grilled Skewers)

Beef kofta is one of those dinners that feels a little different from the usual but couldn’t be easier to make. Warm spices, fresh herbs, and juicy ground beef come together to create flavorful skewers that pair perfectly with roasted vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce. Whether baked in the oven or cooked on the grill, it’s a meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These beef kofta skewers are packed with flavor using everyday spices and fresh herbs. They’re easy to prep ahead, cook quickly, and can be served in so many different ways.

We love them alongside roasted potatoes and zucchini seasoned with the same spices, but they’re equally delicious tucked into pita bread or served over rice with plenty of homemade tzatziki.

Ingredients Needed

• Ground beef
• Red onion
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Turmeric
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh mint

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden skewers
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while preparing the meat mixture.

Step 2: Combine the ground beef, red onion, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, black pepper, parsley, and mint in a large bowl. Mix until evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Divide the mixture into roughly 1/4-cup portions and shape each into a long oval around a skewer.

Step 5: Place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.

Step 6: Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, watching closely, until nicely browned.

Step 7: Serve immediately with homemade tzatziki sauce, roasted potatoes, roasted zucchini, or warm pita bread.

Tips & Tricks

Chilling the mixture before shaping makes the kofta easier to handle and helps the flavors develop.

Wet your hands lightly with water if the meat begins sticking while shaping.

Avoid packing the meat too tightly around the skewers to keep the finished kofta tender.

For grilling, cook over medium-high heat for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.

Season roasted potatoes and zucchini with olive oil, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to perfectly complement the kofta.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in a skillet, 350°F oven, or microwave until warmed through.

Freeze cooked kofta for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

Substitute ground lamb or use a half beef, half lamb mixture for a more traditional flavor.

Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Serve in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki for an easy sandwich.

Pair with rice, couscous, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.

This beef kofta recipe is one of those meals that feels impressive without requiring much effort. The combination of warm spices, fresh herbs, and juicy beef makes every bite flavorful, and paired with roasted vegetables and creamy tzatziki, it’s a dinner we come back to again and again.

Watch me make this recipe here:

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