There’s something wonderfully heartwarming about preparing a meal that fills the kitchen with the rich scents of spices and herbs. When I first made Baked Beef Kofta, the aroma of cumin and garlic enveloped me, transporting me to vibrant Middle Eastern markets bursting with life and flavor. These delectable meat logs are not only easy to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights—but they also bring a unique twist to family dinners, offering a delightful change from the usual fast food.
Whether you serve them alongside warm pita, a crisp salad, or a cool tzatziki, they’re bound to impress both family and guests alike. Plus, their protein-rich goodness keeps everyone satisfied. Join me on this culinary journey to create a dish that embodies warmth and hospitality—let’s dive into the zesty world of Baked Beef Kofta!
Why is Baked Beef Kofta a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This Baked Beef Kofta recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time and basic cooking skills, perfect for busy home cooks.
Flavor Explosion: Packed with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander, these meat logs deliver a flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Family-Friendly: This dish is ideal for a weeknight meal, quickly satisfying even the pickiest of eaters while introducing them to new cultural flavors.
Versatile: Pair your kofta with a variety of sides—from fresh salads to warm pita or rice—making it suitable for any occasion.
Make-Ahead: Prepare in advance and store your kofta in the fridge or freeze for future meals, saving you time without compromising on taste.
Experience the joy of cooking with this quick and delicious recipe, and bring the heart and soul of the Middle East to your kitchen!
Baked Beef Kofta Ingredients
• Get ready to create magical flavors with these simple ingredients!
For the Kofta
- Ground Beef – A preferred fat content of 80/20 ensures delicious flavor and moisture.
- Onion – Adds essential moisture and sweetness; shallots make a great alternative for a milder taste.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic elevates the dish, but garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re in a hurry.
- Fresh Parsley – Offers bright flavor and color; feel free to swap with cilantro for a change.
- Ground Cumin – This key spice delivers that irresistible earthy flavor central to Baked Beef Kofta.
- Ground Coriander – Adds a citrusy, warm note; use extra cumin if you run out of coriander.
- Paprika – Provides a touch of color and mild sweetness; try smoked paprika if you fancy a bit of depth.
- Ground Cinnamon – Just a pinch enhances warmth; too much may overpower the other beautiful flavors.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to your personal preference.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional) – A kick of heat if you like things spicy; omit for a milder delight.
- Egg – Acts as a binder, but if you prefer a gluten-free option, breadcrumbs or flaxseed meal work too.
For Grilling (optional)
- Wooden Skewers – If grilling, make sure to soak them to prevent burning during cooking.
How to Make Baked Beef Kofta
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light coating of oil. This step ensures a non-stick surface for our delicious kofta!
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Mix in a large bowl the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Stir gently until just combined to keep the kofta tender and avoid overmixing.
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Shape the mixture into logs or patties about 4-5 inches long, making sure they are uniform in size for even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, mold the mixture around them beautifully.
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Bake the kofta in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside, ensuring a delicious contrast in texture.
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Rest the kofta for a few minutes after taking them out of the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more flavorful and tender!
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Serve the kofta warm alongside fresh pita, tzatziki sauce, or a crisp salad for a delightful meal that’s bursting with flavor.
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Enjoy every spiced bite of your Baked Beef Kofta and share the love with family and friends!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Beef Kofta
Fridge: Keep leftover Baked Beef Kofta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cool before sealing to maintain moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen Baked Beef Kofta, bake directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the kofta ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. They can also be assembled and frozen raw, promising a convenient, delicious meal on a busy day.
Expert Tips for Baked Beef Kofta
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the ingredients to keep your Baked Beef Kofta tender; overmixing can make them tough.
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Custom Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to tweak spices based on your family’s taste—each adjustment can make the dish uniquely yours.
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Soak Skewers: If grilling, always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning during cooking.
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Resting Time: Allow kofta to rest for a few minutes after baking; this step helps lock in the juices for a more flavorful bite.
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Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers for additional texture and flavor without compromising the kofta’s essence.
Baked Beef Kofta Variations
Feel free to explore exciting twists to make this recipe your own and delight your taste buds in new ways!
- Lamb Swap: Substitute ground beef for ground lamb for a juicier, richer flavor that adds a traditional twist.
- Turkey Kofta: Use ground turkey for a leaner option that still packs a punch in flavor; perfect for a healthier meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra heat level that will awaken your senses.
- Herb Infusion: Blend in fresh mint or dill alongside parsley to introduce a bright and fresh herb garden flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or grated carrots for added nutrition and moisture—everyone loves a hidden veggie!
- Nutty Flavors: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that surprises and delights.
- Indian Influence: Add garam masala or curry powder to spice things up, creating a wonderful fusion experience with familiar ingredients.
- Sweet Touch: A dash of pomegranate molasses or dried fruits like apricots can elevate the dish, making it a sweet and savory delight!
Each variation invites you into a world of flavor, making your Baked Beef Kofta experience as unique as your family’s taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Beef Kofta are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can mix the ground beef and spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing the mixture tightly covered in the refrigerator. Form the kofta into logs or patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy transport to the oven later. For longer storage, you can freeze the shaped kofta, wrapping them tightly to maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Baked Beef Kofta ready to impress your family without sacrificing flavor or quality!
What to Serve with Baked Beef Kofta?
Transform your evening meal into a delightful experience with these perfect pairings that complement the heartwarming flavors of spiced kofta.
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Warm Pita Bread: The soft, pillowy texture of warm pita makes it a perfect vessel for scooping up the succulent kofta and cool dips.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt-based sauce adds a creamy tang that balances the robust flavors of the kofta, making every bite shine.
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Crisp Greek Salad: Packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta, this salad introduces a crunchy contrast that brightens each mouthful of tender meat.
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Spiced Rice: Fragrant basmati or saffron rice provides a comforting base that absorbs the delicious juices from the kofta while adding a subtle flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized, seasoned veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring a sweet depth that pairs beautifully with the savory meat.
Imagine a table spread adorned with colorful dishes, each one contributing to a wholesome family meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Baked Beef Kofta Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for Baked Beef Kofta?
I recommend using ground beef with an 80/20 fat content. This balance provides the perfect combination of flavor and moisture, ensuring that your meat logs are succulent and not dry. If you prefer, you can also use ground lamb or turkey for a different taste experience.
How do I store leftover Baked Beef Kofta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before transferring them to the container to maintain their moisture and flavor. To enjoy them later, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze Baked Beef Kofta?
Absolutely! To freeze, first arrange the formed kofta in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours or until firm. Once they’re hard, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes.
What should I do if my kofta mixture is too wet?
If your Baked Beef Kofta mixture seems too wet to hold its shape, try adding a little bit of breadcrumbs or oats, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved. Alternatively, make sure the grated onion is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Can pets eat Baked Beef Kofta?
While Baked Beef Kofta is delicious for humans, it’s best to avoid feeding it to pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consider your pet’s dietary restrictions before sharing human food with them.
What if I want to adjust the spices in my Baked Beef Kofta?
Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs according to your taste! If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the cayenne pepper or experiment with other spices like smoked paprika for added depth. Remember, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, so tailor it to your personal preference!
Easy Baked Beef Kofta: A Flavor-Packed Family Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and beaten egg.
- Shape the mixture into logs or patties about 4-5 inches long.
- Bake the kofta in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Let the kofta rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with pita, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.