Name: Beef Kafta Kebabs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491144H21M41S
Total time: PT-491144H21M41S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best juiciness); 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne or chili flakes; Olive oil, for brushing

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Beef Kafta Kebabs are one of my favorite Middle Eastern dishes to grill or cook on the stovetop. Made with ground beef, finely chopped herbs, warm spices, and onions, these juicy kebabs are packed with flavor and perfect for pairing with rice, salads, or warm pita bread. I love how simple they are to prepare and how deeply aromatic they become when cooked.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns basic ingredients into something unforgettable. The combination of fresh parsley, garlic, and spices like cumin and cinnamon gives these kebabs a rich, earthy flavor that’s both bold and comforting. They’re great for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or meal prep—I always end up making extras for leftovers. Beef Kafta Kebabs

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)
Onion (grated or very finely chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Ground cinnamon
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: cayenne or chili flakes for heat
Olive oil (for brushing)

Directions

I combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, and spices in a large bowl.
I mix everything thoroughly by hand until well incorporated, but I’m careful not to overmix to keep the kebabs tender.
I shape the mixture into oval patties or long logs around skewers. If I’m not using skewers, I simply shape them by hand.
I let the kebabs rest for 15–20 minutes in the fridge to firm up.
I preheat the grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
I cook the kebabs for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning once, until nicely browned and fully cooked through.
I let them rest a few minutes before serving with lemon wedges, tahini sauce, or yogurt.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–5 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 15–20 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: Around 40–45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I mix in a bit of ground lamb for a deeper flavor, or add chopped mint for a fresh twist. I’ve also shaped the mixture into meatballs or burger patties for a fun variation. When I want a gluten-free version, I skip any breadcrumbs entirely (though some recipes call for them) and the texture still holds beautifully.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through. I’ve also frozen uncooked kebabs—just wrap them individually and thaw before cooking. Beef Kafta Kebabs

FAQs

Can I bake Beef Kafta instead of grilling?

Yes. I place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They still come out juicy and flavorful.

What’s the difference between kafta and kebab?

Kafta is typically made with ground meat mixed with herbs and spices and shaped onto skewers or into logs. Kebab can refer to various styles of meat, including chunks or ground.

Can I use a food processor?

Yes. I sometimes pulse the onion, garlic, and herbs in a food processor before mixing with the beef—it helps get that fine, even texture.

What goes well with Beef Kafta?

I love serving it with basmati rice, hummus, grilled vegetables, or tucked into pita with pickles and garlic sauce.

How do I keep the kebabs from falling apart?

I chill them before cooking and avoid over-handling once they hit the pan or grill. If needed, I add a spoonful of breadcrumbs to bind the mixture, though I usually don’t need it.

Conclusion

Beef Kafta Kebabs are one of my favorite ways to enjoy bold, herby, and juicy grilled meat with very little effort. They’re packed with Mediterranean flavor, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile. Whether I serve them with rice, salad, or wrap them in pita, they never last long once they hit the table.