Name: Beef Kafta Kebabs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85/15); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne (optional)

Tender, juicy, and packed with Middle Eastern flavor, these Beef Kafta Kebabs are your ticket to an effortless, exotic backyard BBQ or a cozy stovetop dinner. Made with ground beef, fresh herbs, and warming spices, these kebabs are simple to prepare but impressive enough to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Whether served with warm pita, over a bed of fluffy rice, or dipped in creamy tzatziki, kafta brings bold taste with minimal effort.

Originating from Levantine cuisine, kafta (or kofta) is beloved across the Middle East and Mediterranean. Its versatility lies in the blend of herbs and spices, balanced by the richness of the beef. This recipe offers a beautiful balance of texture and taste—charred edges, moist center, and fragrant notes of parsley, cumin, and cinnamon that elevate humble ingredients into something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Kafta Kebabs

Fast and Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.
Protein-Packed: Made with lean beef and loaded with herbs for a nutritious option.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Shape them ahead of time and freeze or refrigerate for a quick cook later.
Versatile Pairings: Serve them as wraps, with salads, or alongside grilled veggies.
Crowd Pleaser: A favorite for family dinners and festive occasions alike.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Beef Kafta Kebabs is as much about flavor as it is about smart prep. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly without overworking the meat.
Food Processor (Optional): Speeds up mincing onions and parsley for a finer texture.
Skewers: Metal or soaked wooden skewers help shape and grill the kebabs.
Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: To achieve that perfect char and smoky flavor.
Meat Thermometer (Optional): Useful if you want to make sure the kebabs are cooked to a safe temperature without drying them out.

These tools help streamline your process, ensure even cooking, and make cleanup simple. And remember, kafta doesn’t require complex tools—just quality ingredients and the right blend of spice.

Ingredients for the Beef Kafta Kebabs

Each ingredient in Beef Kafta Kebabs has a clear purpose—flavor, texture, or binding. Here’s what you need and why it matters:

Ground Beef: The base of the kafta. Go for 85/15 for the right balance of flavor and juiciness.
Onion: Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that keeps the kebabs juicy.
Fresh Parsley: Provides freshness and a bright herbal layer that lifts the flavor.
Garlic: Adds that earthy punch and depth of flavor.
Ground Cumin: Warm, slightly nutty spice that’s signature in Middle Eastern cooking.
Ground Allspice: Adds warmth and complexity.
Ground Cinnamon: A pinch gives an unexpected but balanced warmth.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Optional Cayenne or Chili Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat.

How To Make the Beef Kafta Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Finely chop the onion, garlic, and parsley. Use a food processor if desired. Squeeze out excess moisture from the onion using a paper towel—this keeps the kebabs from being too wet.

Step 2: Mix the Meat

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped aromatics, and all the spices. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix—this can make the kebabs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Kebabs

Divide the mixture into equal portions. Shape each around a skewer into a long oval shape, about 5 to 6 inches long. If you’re not using skewers, you can shape them like small logs.

Step 4: Chill for Better Hold

Place the kebabs in the fridge for 20-30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape on the grill.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill the kafta kebabs for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with your choice of pita, salad, rice, or dipping sauces like tzatziki or garlic yogurt.

Serving and Storing Beef Kafta Kebabs

These Beef Kafta Kebabs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a casual lunch, wrap them in warm pita with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a dollop of garlic sauce. For dinner, serve them alongside rice pilaf and grilled vegetables. Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of tahini sauce for a Mediterranean twist. They’re also excellent with classic sides like hummus or tabbouleh.

To store leftovers, let the kebabs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain their moisture. You can also freeze the uncooked shaped kafta for up to 2 months—perfect for future meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without skewers?

Absolutely. Simply shape the mixture into oval patties or small logs and cook them in a skillet or bake them in the oven.

What kind of beef should I use?

Use ground beef that’s 85/15 or 80/20 for the best combination of tenderness and flavor. Leaner beef tends to dry out.

Can I grill these in the oven?

Yes! Use the broiler setting on high, placing the kebabs on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Broil for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

How do I keep the kafta from falling apart?

Squeeze out moisture from the onion, avoid overmixing the meat, and let the shaped kebabs chill before grilling.

Can I use other meats?

Yes! You can substitute ground lamb, chicken, or turkey. Just keep an eye on the moisture and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Are these spicy?

The base recipe is mild. You can add chili flakes or cayenne if you prefer a bit of heat.

Want More Ground Beef Ideas?

If you enjoyed these flavorful Beef Kafta Kebabs, you’ll love trying out more ground beef creations with bold spices and cozy vibes:

French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for rich, savory comfort food.
Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta when you’re craving creamy, cheesy goodness.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a pasta dinner full of flavor.
Effortless Philly Cheesesteak Meatloaf when you want comfort food with a twist.
Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet for one-pan ease and zesty flair.

These dishes offer something for every taste, from spicy to creamy, all using ground beef as a satisfying base.

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Let me know in the comments if you served your kafta kebabs with a classic dip or tried something bold like a harissa sauce! Your twists make these recipes come alive. And if you have questions, I’m all ears—we cook better together.