Description
This Beef Kofta Bake is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired casserole featuring spiced ground beef koftas simmered in a rich tomato sauce with tender vegetables. Seared to perfection and baked until bubbly, this comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner and pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or flatbread.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Koftas
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined to keep the koftas tender.
- Shape and Sear the Koftas: Form the mixture into 10–12 small oval-shaped koftas. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the koftas on all sides for about 4–5 minutes until they have a lovely brown crust. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a separate bowl, stir together the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, ground allspice, and beef broth or water until well combined.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Arrange the seared koftas evenly in a baking dish. Scatter sliced red bell pepper and zucchini around the koftas. Pour the tomato sauce mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and vegetables to soften.
- Add Feta and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the koftas and vegetables if using, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the vegetables are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot with your choice of rice, couscous, or flatbread.
Notes
- Serve with rice, couscous, or flatbread for a complete meal.
- You can substitute lamb for beef or use a mix of both for a richer flavor.
- Add chili flakes or fresh chili to the kofta mixture if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Check labels to ensure beef broth and spices are gluten-free if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
