Kofta Meatballs

Kofta Meatballs are a savory and spiced Middle Eastern dish made with ground meat, herbs, and warming spices. Juicy on the inside and beautifully caramelized on the outside, these meatballs are bursting with flavor. Whether you bake, grill, or pan-fry them, they’re perfect served with rice, pita, or on their own with a dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold, aromatic spices
• Versatile cooking options: bake, grill, or pan-fry
• Great for meal prep or entertaining
• Naturally gluten-free with simple substitutions
• Delicious with a variety of sides and sauces

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or lamb
• Onion, finely grated
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Ground cumin
• Ground coriander
• Paprika
• Ground cinnamon
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)
• Olive oil

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, garlic, parsley, spices, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs if using.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Form into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
4. To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange meatballs on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once.
5. To pan-fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 10–12 minutes).
6. To grill: Thread meatballs onto skewers and grill over medium heat until nicely charred and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides or sauces.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20–25 minutes (baking method)
• Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
• Add mint or cilantro for a fresh twist
• Make it spicy with chopped chili or extra cayenne
• Stuff each meatball with a cube of cheese for a gooey surprise
• Serve with yogurt tahini sauce, tzatziki, or harissa for extra flavor

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating or cooking

FAQs

Can I make kofta meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, or freeze them for later use.

What’s the best meat for kofta?

Ground lamb is traditional, but beef, turkey, or a mix all work well.

Do I need breadcrumbs?

They’re optional but help bind the meatballs and keep them moist.

Can I grill them instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor.

What sauces go well with kofta?

Try tahini sauce, tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or spicy harissa.

How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

Don’t overcook them and consider adding a bit of olive oil or grated onion to the mix.

Can I make these spicy?

Yes, add more cayenne pepper or some chopped chilies to the mix.

Are kofta meatballs gluten-free?

They can be—just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

What should I serve with kofta meatballs?

Rice, pita bread, salads, or grilled vegetables all pair well.

Can I cook these in the air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through.

Conclusion

Kofta Meatballs are an easy and flavorful way to enjoy classic Middle Eastern flavors at home. With a simple blend of spices and fresh herbs, these meatballs are perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Serve them with your favorite sides or sauces, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress every time.

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