Beef Kafta Kebabs

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Juicy, aromatic, and perfectly grilled, Beef Kafta Kebabs bring bold Middle Eastern flavors straight to your backyard. Whether you’re cooking them over an open flame or on a stovetop grill, these skewers deliver satisfying bites of seasoned beef with a tender texture and hints of fresh herbs. The scent of parsley, garlic, and warm spices sizzling on the grill is enough to gather everyone around.

Beef Kafta is more than just ground beef on a stick. It’s a celebration of simplicity done right. With minimal ingredients and a quick prep time, this dish becomes a go-to for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Serve it with fluffy rice, pita bread, or crisp salad, and you’ve got a complete, nourishing meal that makes everyone happy.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Kafta Kebabs Recipe

These kebabs are incredibly easy to prepare and come together with just a handful of pantry staples. The flavor is rich but not overwhelming, making them versatile enough to pair with many sides. They also hold up well when grilled, broiled, or even pan-fried, which means you can enjoy them year-round.

Plus, they make excellent leftovers—perfect for tossing into wraps, grain bowls, or salads the next day. And if you’re hosting, Kafta Kebabs are a crowd-pleaser with adults and kids alike.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use for Kafta?

Opt for ground beef with a bit of fat for the best flavor and moisture. An 85/15 blend (meaning 85% lean, 15% fat) strikes the perfect balance between taste and texture. Too lean and the kafta can turn dry; too fatty and it risks falling apart on the grill.

You can also mix beef with lamb for a more traditional touch, adding depth and richness to the final result.

Ingredients for the Beef Kafta Kebabs

The ingredients for this dish are simple yet flavorful, combining meat with herbs and spices to create a robust, savory profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef – The heart of the dish. Choose 85/15 for juicy results.

Fresh Parsley – Brings brightness and herbal depth to the mixture.

Onion – Adds sweetness and moisture that blends perfectly with the meat.

Garlic – Essential for that bold, aromatic kick.

Ground Cumin – Warm and earthy, cumin is a signature flavor in kafta.

Ground Allspice – Just a touch gives subtle warmth and complexity.

Salt and Pepper – To enhance and balance all the other flavors.

Olive Oil – Keeps the meat mixture tender and adds a nice finish on the grill.

How To Make the Beef Kafta Kebabs

Step 1: Make the Meat Mixture

Finely chop the onion, parsley, and garlic. You can also pulse them together in a food processor for an even consistency. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the chopped ingredients, cumin, allspice, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.

Step 2: Shape the Kafta

Take a handful of the meat mixture and shape it around a skewer, pressing it into an oval or cylindrical shape. You want it compact enough to hold together but not overworked. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Step 3: Grill the Kebabs

Preheat your grill (or stovetop grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill the kafta kebabs for about 4–5 minutes per side or until fully cooked with nice grill marks.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Let the kafta rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to keep them juicy. Serve hot with lemon wedges, rice, or flatbread.

How to Serve and Store Beef Kafta Kebabs

Beef Kafta Kebabs are best served fresh off the grill, hot and juicy. They pair beautifully with warm pita bread, a side of garlicky hummus, and chopped cucumber-tomato salad. For a more filling plate, add fragrant rice pilaf or roasted vegetables.

This recipe yields about 4 servings, depending on the size of your skewers. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the oven at low heat to preserve the texture.

You can also freeze the raw kafta kebabs (before grilling) for up to a month. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What to Serve With Beef Kafta Kebabs?

Hummus and Pita

Creamy hummus with warm, fluffy pita is a must-have. The smooth texture contrasts nicely with the grilled kafta.

Tzatziki Sauce

A cool cucumber-yogurt sauce adds a refreshing touch and helps balance the spice.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Fresh, crunchy, and zesty. It keeps things light and vibrant.

Lebanese Rice Pilaf

Aromatic rice with toasted vermicelli noodles brings cozy comfort to the plate.

Roasted Vegetables

Try bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a smoky, caramelized side.

Garlic Sauce

A bold toum (Lebanese garlic sauce) is another authentic condiment that packs flavor.

Pickled Turnips

These tangy, vibrant pickles are a traditional Middle Eastern pairing.

Grilled Halloumi

A salty, grillable cheese that adds texture and richness to your kafta spread.

Want More Middle Eastern-Inspired Ideas?

If you loved these Beef Kafta Kebabs, you’ll want to explore more flavorful dishes like these:

• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for bold and herbaceous notes.

• Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet for a balanced and hearty meal.

• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you want indulgence in every bite.

• Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Gravy for something cozy and satisfying.

• Dirty Rice with Ground Beef for a comforting rice dish with a Cajun twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your kafta turned out. Did you grill them over charcoal or use the oven? Did you add lamb or stick with beef?

I love hearing how others put their own spin on these recipes. Questions are always welcome!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight favorites.

Conclusion

Beef Kafta Kebabs are the kind of dish that proves simple food can be deeply satisfying. With their juicy texture, vibrant spices, and fresh herbs, they bring big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something delicious and hearty, this kafta recipe has you covered. Pair it with your favorite Middle Eastern sides and you’ve got a meal that’s both wholesome and crave-worthy.

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