One-Pan Lebanese Kafta with Roasted Vegetables Recipe

If you love dishes that bring deep, aromatic flavors together with vibrant veggies, you’re going to adore the One-Pan Lebanese Kafta with Roasted Vegetables Recipe. This delightful meal combines seasoned ground meat shaped into tender kafta patties, perfectly browned and baked alongside colorful roasted vegetables. Everything cooks in a single pan, making it a fuss-free but incredibly satisfying recipe that bursts with the warmth of Middle Eastern spices and the freshness of herbs. It’s comfort food elevated with wholesome ingredients, ideal for busy weeknights or sharing with friends when you want something special yet simple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward but essential ingredients sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. Each one plays a key role—whether it’s the fragrant spices that infuse the meat with complexity, the fresh herbs that brighten every bite, or the crisp vegetables that add texture and color. Together, they create harmony on your plate and a feast for your senses.

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb: Choose good quality meat for juicy, flavorful kafta patties.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and moisture that keeps the meat tender.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic punch essential to Lebanese flavors.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Freshness that brightens and balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin is a cornerstone spice here.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds citrusy undertones complementing the meat perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings mild smokiness and vibrant color.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides subtle warmth and depth without being overpowering.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the kafta and roasting the vegetables beautifully.
• 1 bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and crispness during roasting.
• 1 zucchini, sliced: Brings moisture and a tender bite.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy pops of tangy flavor that roast down to amazing sweetness.
• 2 cups cooked rice or quinoa (optional): Perfect to serve the dish over for a heartier meal.

How to Make One-Pan Lebanese Kafta with Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting the vegetables until tender while cooking the kafta through without drying them out.

Step 2: Prepare the Kafta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Add the ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly but gently, ensuring every bite will be bursting with spice and herb goodness.

Step 3: Shape the Kafta Patties

Take the meat mixture and form it into oval-shaped patties about one inch thick. This traditional shape ensures they cook evenly and develop a lovely crust when seared.

Step 4: Brown the Kafta in the Skillet

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the kafta patties in the pan and cook for around 5 minutes on each side. This step locks in juices and produces that irresistible golden-brown exterior.

Step 5: Arrange the Vegetables

Once the kafta is nicely browned, move the patties to one side of the skillet. Arrange the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes alongside them. This keeps everything together in one pan, absorbing the meat’s flavorful juices as they roast.

Step 6: Season and Oil the Vegetables

Drizzle the vegetables lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. These simple touches help the vegetables caramelize beautifully in the oven.

Step 7: Roast in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the kafta patties will cook through completely, and the vegetables will become tender and slightly charred around the edges.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove the skillet from the oven and let everything rest for 10 minutes. This short rest lets the flavors settle and juices redistribute, making every bite juicy and flavorful.

Step 9: Optional Serving Base

If you love a filling meal, serve the kafta and roasted vegetables over cooked rice or quinoa for a wholesome plate that hits all the right notes in comfort and nutrition.

Step 10: Garnish and Enjoy

For the final touch, sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top. The bright green flecks enhance the dish with a fresh aroma and vibrant color, making your One-Pan Lebanese Kafta with Roasted Vegetables Recipe truly inviting.

How to Serve One-Pan Lebanese Kafta with Roasted Vegetables Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet elegant garnish that brings life to the dish, but you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of creamy tahini sauce to elevate flavors. These accents introduce brightness and subtle creaminess that pair beautifully with the spiced meat and roasted veggies.

Side Dishes

This recipe stands strong on its own, but pairing it with warm pita bread, a crisp fattoush salad, or a side of tangy pickled vegetables offers a balanced and exciting meal. These sides add varied textures and flavors that complement the richness of the kafta and the earthiness of the roasted vegetables perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the kafta and vegetables family-style right in the skillet at the table, inviting everyone to dig in and share. Alternatively, build a vibrant plate with layers of fluffy rice or quinoa, roasted vegetables around the edges, and kafta patties on top, garnished with herbs and a drizzle of garlic yogurt. Presentation is a joy with this flexible dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover kafta and roasted vegetables in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the components together preserves the mingled flavors, making for an easy and delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze the kafta patties and roasted vegetables separately in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When freezing, lay items flat and avoid overcrowding to keep their shape and texture intact.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the kafta and vegetables gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the texture and flavor quality.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the kafta?

Absolutely! While ground beef or lamb are traditional and ideal for their flavor and fat content, you can also use ground turkey or chicken. Just be mindful they may cook faster and can be a bit leaner, so adding a touch of olive oil or fat helps keep the patties moist.

What if I don’t have all the spices?

This recipe shines because of its spice blend, but you can simplify if needed. Cumin and paprika are key players, so prioritize those, and consider adding a pinch of cinnamon if you have it. Fresh herbs like parsley also help brighten the overall taste.

Can I make the kafta patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and shape the kafta patties a few hours or even a day ahead, keeping them covered in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld even further, and you’ll save time when cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Indeed, it is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. Just be sure that any additional sides or garnishes you serve alongside are also gluten-free to keep the meal safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

How spicy is this dish?

It has mild to moderate warmth from the paprika and spices but is not overly spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes if you prefer more kick, or keep it mild to suit all palates.

Final Thoughts

Making the One-Pan Lebanese Kafta with Roasted Vegetables Recipe is like inviting the rich culinary traditions of Lebanese home cooking into your kitchen without any fuss. The blend of spices, the juicy kafta, and the colorful roasted vegetables create a meal that’s as comforting as it is exciting. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try soon and find it becoming a cherished favorite in your own home. Trust me, it’s a one-pan wonder worth savoring again and again.

Print