Beef Kofta Recipe: Juicy, Flavor-Packed Middle Eastern Meatballs

Looking for a recipe that’s bold, juicy, and bursting with spice? The beef kofta recipe is your answer. These Middle Eastern-style meatballs are made with ground beef, fresh herbs, and warm spices like cumin and coriander, all shaped into logs or patties and cooked to savory perfection.

Whether grilled, baked, or pan-fried, beef kofta is a flavor-packed meal that fits weeknight dinners, summer BBQs, or even meal prep. Best of all, it’s versatile—you can serve it with pita, rice, or wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything from the origins of kofta to the best spices, shaping techniques, and side dishes. You’ll also get 5 creative kofta variations and smart tips for freezing and reheating leftovers.

Love hearty meals with bold flavors? Don’t miss our Vegetable Beef Soup Recipes—another satisfying dish packed with protein and comfort.

What Is Beef Kofta?

🌍 Middle Eastern Roots with Global Appeal

Beef kofta, or “kofta kebab,” is a classic dish rooted in the cuisines of the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. The word “kofta” comes from the Persian word “kuftan,” meaning “to grind” or “pound,” which reflects how the dish starts—with ground meat.

While versions vary by region, the core idea is the same: ground beef mixed with onion, garlic, spices, and herbs, formed into logs, patties, or balls and then cooked by grilling, baking, or frying.

Kofta vs. Kebab vs. Meatball

Let’s clear it up:

Kofta often uses no breadcrumbs or egg—just spices, onion, and meat. The result is a denser, more flavorful bite than your typical Western meatball.

 Key Ingredients for Perfect Beef Kofta

Making authentic and juicy beef kofta starts with fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need—and why they matter.

1. Ground Beef (80/20 is Ideal)

Fat equals flavor. Choose 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for kofta that stays juicy and rich. Leaner beef can work, but it may result in drier texture.

If you want even richer flavor, you can combine beef with a small portion of lamb (e.g., 70% beef, 30% lamb).

2. Aromatics: Onion & Garlic

Grate or finely chop your onion—it keeps the kofta moist and distributes flavor evenly.

Tip: Squeeze out excess moisture from the grated onion to avoid kofta falling apart while cooking.

Garlic brings punch. Use fresh cloves, finely minced.

3. Herbs: Fresh Parsley & Mint

Parsley is non-negotiable—it adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the meat.

Fresh mint is optional but highly recommended. It adds a unique coolness that balances the warm spices.

4. Essential Spices for Kofta

Middle Eastern beef kofta gets its depth from a mix of earthy, warm spices:

• Ground cumin – nutty and slightly citrusy

• Ground coriander – floral and peppery

• Allspice or cinnamon – a touch of sweet warmth

• Black pepper – slight heat

• Paprika or chili flakes – optional kick

• Salt – enhances all flavors

You can also add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg for complexity.

5. Optional Binding Ingredients

Traditional kofta doesn’t use fillers, but if your mix feels too wet:

• Add 1 tbsp of chickpea flour or fine breadcrumbs

• A small beaten egg can help bind, but isn’t necessary if meat quality is high

How to Shape and Cook Kofta

Now that you’ve mixed your kofta, shaping and cooking it correctly is crucial to flavor and texture.

Shaping Techniques:

You can form beef kofta in several ways depending on how you want to serve it:

• Logs or “fingers” (classic) – great for grilling or skewering

• Round meatballs – easier for baking or pan-frying

• Flat patties – ideal for pita stuffing or rice bowls

Use oiled hands to prevent sticking while shaping. Avoid overworking the meat—it toughens the texture.

Cooking Methods

Internal temp target: 160°F (71°C) for safe and juicy beef.

Pro Tips:

• Chill the shaped kofta for 30 minutes before cooking—it helps them hold their shape.

• Use a cast iron skillet or grill pan for a crispy, smoky sear indoors.

• Don’t crowd the pan—leave room for browning!

Sauces & Sides to Serve with Kofta

A great beef kofta recipe deserves equally delicious companions. The right sauce or side dish can take your kofta from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re aiming for a hearty dinner or a light lunch, here are the best options to serve with kofta.

Classic Sauces That Pair Perfectly

Garlic Yogurt Sauce (Tzatziki-Style)

This cooling sauce balances the spices of the kofta beautifully.

How to Make:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• 1 garlic clove (grated)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & chopped parsley or mint

Whisk together and chill before serving.

Tahini Sauce

Rich and nutty, this sesame-based sauce brings Middle Eastern authenticity.

How to Make:

• 1/3 cup tahini

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 garlic clove

• Pinch of salt + water to thin

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Spiced Tomato Relish

For extra warmth and tang, try a lightly spiced tomato sauce over kofta.

• Simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, cumin, paprika, and olive oil.

• Pour over baked kofta and serve hot.

 Best Sides for a Complete Meal

Tip: Want a low-carb option? Serve kofta over cauliflower rice or wrapped in large lettuce leaves with yogurt sauce.

 5 Irresistible Beef Kofta Recipe Variations

Looking to switch it up? These five creative beef kofta recipes show how versatile this dish really is—whether baked, grilled, served with sauces, or wrapped in bread.

 1. Classic Grilled Beef Kofta

• Form kofta logs or ovals

• Skewer and grill for 3–4 mins per side

• Serve with garlic yogurt and warm pita

• Great for BBQs and picnics

 2. Baked Kofta in Tomato Sauce

• Shape into meatballs

• Bake in oven-safe dish at 400°F

• Simmer with homemade tomato sauce

• Serve over rice or couscous

Bonus: It reheats beautifully for meal prep!

 3. Kofta Kebabs on Skewers

• Use flat skewers to keep them from spinning

• Grill or broil with olive oil basting

• Add bell peppers and onions between meat for a full kebab

 4. Stuffed Kofta Pita Pockets

• Stuff grilled kofta inside warm pita bread

• Add red onion, parsley, and garlic yogurt

• Drizzle with tahini or hot sauce

Perfect for on-the-go meals or packed lunches.

 5. Kofta Bowl with Rice & Salad

• Kofta + fluffy basmati rice

• Topped with tabbouleh, hummus, and pickled red onions

• Finish with garlic yogurt or spicy harissa sauce

Ideal for meal prepping several lunches ahead of time!

 Cooking Tips for Juicy Kofta Every Time

A good beef kofta recipe is only as good as how it’s cooked. No one wants dry, crumbly kofta. Here are pro tips to guarantee tenderness, flavor, and structure every single time.

Don’t Overmix the Meat

Too much mixing = tough kofta.

• Gently combine ingredients with your hands or a fork.

• Stop once everything is just combined.

• Overmixing activates proteins, making the meat rubbery.

 Let It Rest

Once shaped, chill the kofta for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Why?

• Helps flavors meld

• Firms up the shape

• Prevents breaking apart during cooking

 Add Moisture Naturally

Grated onion adds natural juiciness. Just be sure to:

• Squeeze out excess liquid before mixing

• Retain some of that moisture for tenderness

 Sear First (If Frying or Baking)

For pan-frying or oven roasting:

• Brown kofta in a hot pan for 2–3 mins

• Then transfer to oven to finish cooking

This locks in juices and builds flavor through caramelization.

Use an Instant Thermometer

Cook to 160°F (71°C) internal temp for fully cooked, juicy beef. Don’t rely on guesswork—especially with larger kofta.

 Make-Ahead, Meal Prep & Freezer Tips

Beef kofta is perfect for batch cooking. With the right approach, you can prep meals for days—or even months!

 Freezing Kofta (Raw or Cooked)

Both forms freeze well:

Label and date everything before freezing.

 Reheating Kofta

For best results:

• Oven: 350°F for 10–15 mins

• Air fryer: 370°F for 5–6 mins

• Microwave: Use a damp paper towel to prevent drying out

Avoid reheating more than once to preserve flavor and moisture.

 Weekly Meal Prep Idea

Kofta Rice Bowls

• Day 1: Grilled kofta + rice + salad

• Day 2: Kofta wrap with hummus

• Day 3: Baked kofta with tomato sauce + pita

• Day 4: Kofta lettuce wraps + tahini drizzle

Don’t miss our Mini Pizza Recipes for more lunchbox-friendly, prep-ahead ideas.

 Kid-Friendly & Low-Carb Versions

Kofta is family-friendly and easily adaptable to your health goals. Here’s how to make it work for picky eaters or low-carb lifestyles.

 Kid-Friendly Kofta

• Use mild spices (skip chili flakes)

• Shape into meatballs or mini patties

• Serve with plain yogurt and rice or pasta

• Mix in shredded carrots or zucchini for hidden veggies

Kofta sliders in small buns = fun and satisfying.

Low-Carb Kofta Options

• Use lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas

• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles

• Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or flaxseed meal if using binders

• Pair with tzatziki and roasted veggies for a keto plate

Kofta is naturally gluten-free when no binder is added.

 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned cooks can mess up kofta. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to fix it.

 Kofta Falls Apart

Cause: Too much onion moisture or not enough rest time.
Fix: Squeeze out onion juice, chill the mix, or add a binder (chickpea flour or egg).

 Dry Kofta

Cause: Overcooked or using lean beef.
Fix: Use 80/20 beef, avoid overcooking, and add grated onion for moisture.

 Bland Kofta

Cause: Skimping on salt or spice.
Fix: Taste test a small piece by pan-frying before shaping the rest.

 Uneven Cooking

Cause: Kofta is too thick or cooked on low heat.
Fix: Shape evenly, preheat pan/grill, and cook at medium-high heat.

🧑‍🍳 Boost Your Kofta Game with the Right Spices

The secret to the most flavorful beef kofta recipe lies in your spice blend. Traditional kofta relies on cumin, coriander, allspice, and fresh parsley to build a warm, earthy base. For beginners, check out this helpful guide on Middle Eastern spice profiles from Serious Eats to learn how different spices contribute to depth and aroma.

Want more recipes that use bold, fragrant spices? Don’t miss our Creamy Paprika Chicken with Herb Potatoes—it’s another dish where spices do all the heavy lifting!

FAQs: People Also Ask

1. What is kofta made of?

Kofta is made from ground meat—typically beef or lamb—mixed with onion, garlic, fresh herbs like parsley and mint, and warm spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Some variations include breadcrumbs or egg as binders.

2. Can I use ground lamb instead of beef in kofta?

Absolutely. Ground lamb is traditionally used in many Middle Eastern kofta recipes. You can use lamb alone or mix it with beef (e.g., 70% beef, 30% lamb) for a richer flavor.

3. What spices go in beef kofta?

Essential spices include cumin, coriander, black pepper, allspice or cinnamon, paprika, and salt. Some variations may also include cayenne, nutmeg, or cardamom for added depth.

4. How do you keep kofta moist?

Use beef with enough fat (80/20), add grated onion for natural moisture, avoid overcooking, and let the meat rest before cooking. Chilling the mix before shaping also helps maintain juiciness.

5. What should I serve with beef kofta?

Serve it with garlic yogurt sauce, tahini, or tomato relish. For sides, try basmati rice, pita bread, tabbouleh, hummus, or roasted vegetables. Lettuce wraps are a great low-carb option.

6. Can I cook kofta in the oven?

Yes! Bake kofta at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. It’s an easy, no-mess option that works well for batch cooking.