Easy Beef Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

A Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring spiced beef kofta paired with a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt sauce. This meal is simple yet full of bold flavors, making it perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or even meal prep. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a delicious way to bring Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, flavorful, and versatile. The beef kofta is seasoned with za’atar, garlic, and herbs for an aromatic and savory bite, while the Greek yogurt sauce provides a refreshing balance. You can pan-fry, grill, or bake the kofta depending on your preference. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and works beautifully as a main dish with sides or wrapped in flatbread.

Ingredients

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

Greek Yogurt Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Beef Kofta:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean/20% fat)

• 1 tablespoon za’atar seasoning

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 shallot, finely minced (about ⅓ cup)

• 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley or cilantro, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 egg, beaten

Directions

1. Prepare the Greek yogurt sauce: Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef with za’atar, salt, pepper, shallot, parsley or cilantro, garlic, and egg until just combined.

3. Form the mixture into small oblong patties. Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking if needed.

4. Heat an oiled skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the kofta for 12–14 minutes, turning every couple of minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).

5. Serve hot with the Greek yogurt sauce.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Grill version: Shape into skewered koftas and grill over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.

• Oven-baked: Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Use lamb or chicken: Swap beef for ground lamb or chicken for a different flavor.

• Dairy-free: Replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or extra cayenne for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Store cooked kofta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat kofta in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

• Freeze uncooked kofta patties for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

FAQs

What is kofta?

Kofta is a Middle Eastern dish made of ground meat, herbs, and spices, often shaped into patties or skewers.

Can I make this recipe with ground lamb instead of beef?

Yes, lamb is a traditional option and works beautifully in this recipe.

Do I need skewers to make kofta?

No, skewers are optional. You can shape the kofta into patties or logs and cook them in a skillet or oven.

What can I serve with beef kofta?

Serve with pita bread, rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Is the Greek yogurt sauce spicy?

The sauce is mild, but you can add cayenne pepper or chili for extra heat.

Can I grill the kofta without skewers?

Yes, simply shape them into patties and grill directly on the grates.

How do I prevent kofta from falling apart while cooking?

Make sure the mixture is well combined and cook long enough on one side before flipping. Adding an egg also helps bind the meat.

Can I freeze cooked kofta?

Yes, cooked kofta can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What kind of yogurt works best for the sauce?

Thick, plain Greek yogurt works best for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Conclusion

Beef Kofta with Greek Yogurt Sauce is a flavorful, versatile dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners or entertaining. With its blend of herbs, spices, and creamy sauce, it offers a delicious Mediterranean twist that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you pan-fry, grill, or bake them, these koftas are sure to impress.

Print

A Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring spiced beef kofta served with a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt sauce. Quick to prepare, versatile, and full of bold flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or meal prep.