Mediterranean Beef Kofta

PIn it

This Mediterranean Beef Kofta sheet pan dinner recipe brings vibrant flavors and easy cleanup right to your kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare a delicious, healthy meal all on one pan, perfect for a busy weeknight.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for best results. Ground lamb or turkey are also great substitutions.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint are essential for authentic flavor. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but reduce the amount.
• Bell Peppers: Any color works; choose your favorite. Zucchini or red onion can be added as well.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes also work beautifully.
• Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or crumbled halloumi are good alternatives.

Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Vegetables:

• 1 large bell pepper (any color), cored and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh lemon wedges
• Pita bread or rice for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, mixing bowls

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Kofta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped parsley, mint, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

2. Form the Kofta

Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval or cylindrical kofta. Place these on one side of a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps with even cooking for your sheet pan dinner recipes.

3. Season the Vegetables

In a separate bowl, toss the bell pepper pieces and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Spread these seasoned vegetables out on the other side of the baking sheet, next to the kofta.

4. Bake Your Sheet Pan Dinner

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the kofta and vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until the kofta are cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Flip the kofta halfway through cooking for even browning.

5. Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately with warm pita bread or rice for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Variation Ideas

• Add thinly sliced red onion or zucchini to the vegetables for more variety.
• For a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the kofta mixture.
• Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus.
• Include sweet potatoes cut into 1-inch cubes for a heartier sheet pan dinner.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Mediterranean Beef Kofta and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make the kofta ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the kofta and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

• What kind of beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85-90% lean) works best to prevent the kofta from being too greasy.

• Can I use frozen vegetables?

While fresh is preferred for flavor and texture, you can use frozen bell peppers. Add them directly to the sheet pan without thawing.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Mediterranean Beef Kofta sheet pan dinner is naturally gluten-free if served without pita bread.

• How do I know if the kofta are cooked?

The kofta are cooked when they are browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer should register 160°F (71°C).

• Can I add other spices to the kofta?

Absolutely! Experiment with a pinch of sumac, allspice, or a touch of cinnamon for different flavor profiles.