I remember the first time I tried to recreate my favorite Mediterranean street food at home. My kids were running around the kitchen, and I wanted something that tasted like a gourmet meal without the gourmet mess. Learning how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer became my ultimate secret weapon for busy weeknights.

These juicy, spiced meat skewers remind me of warm summer evenings and laughter-filled family gatherings. When you learn how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer, you bring those vibrant Middle Eastern flavors right to your kitchen table in less than 20 minutes. My husband always says the house smells like a five-star restaurant whenever I start making kofta kebabs in the air fryer.

It is more than just a meal; it is a way I show my family I care about their health and their taste buds. If you have been wondering how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer without drying them out, you have come to the right place. Today, I am sharing all my secrets for the perfect, succulent kebab that will make your family beg for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This How to Cook Kofta Kebabs in Air Fryer Recipe

You will absolutely adore cooking kofta kebabs in an air fryer because it saves so much time. Traditionally, people grill these over charcoal or bake them in a slow oven. However, the air fryer circulates hot air rapidly, which locks in the juices while browning the exterior beautifully.

Consequently, you get that grilled taste without ever turning on the propane. Furthermore, how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer recipes are naturally low-carb and high-protein, making them perfect for a nourishing dinner. Since the basket allows fat to drip away, the result is much lighter than pan-frying.

Additionally, this method keeps your kitchen cool during the summer months. Most importantly, my kids love the “food on a stick” concept, which makes dinner time fun and engaging for everyone. Once you master how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer, you will likely never go back to the stovetop method again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To start your journey on how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer, you need fresh, high-quality ingredients. I prefer a mix of ground beef and lamb for the best flavor profile. However, you can use just beef if you prefer a milder taste.

Specifically, ensure your meat has at least 15-20% fat content. Lean meat can lead to dry kebabs, which we definitely want to avoid when cooking kofta kebabs in an air fryer.

how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer

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Succulent and spiced Mediterranean meat skewers made with a blend of ground beef and lamb, cooked in the air fryer for a healthy, gourmet meal in under 20 minutes.

• Author: Salma Tahiri
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb Ground Beef (80/20)
0.5 lb Ground Lamb
1 small Red Onio
0.5 cup Fresh Parsley
3 cloves Garlic
1 tsp Cumi
1 tsp Coriander
0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika
To taste Salt & Black Pepper

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Instructions

1. Place the ground beef, ground lamb, grated onion (with moisture squeezed out), minced garlic, chopped parsley, and spices in a large mixing bowl
2. Mix the ingredients by hand until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat
3. Divide the mixture into equal 2-3 ounce portions and shape into long, oval logs
4. Thread the meat onto skewers (optional) and press firmly to secure
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and place the kebabs in a single layer without overcrowding
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the kebabs halfway through the cooking time
8. Remove once the internal temperature reaches 160°F and let rest for 5 minutes before serving

Notes

Always squeeze the liquid out of grated onions to ensure the meat stays on the skewers.

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before cooking to prevent charring.

Wet your hands with water or oil before shaping the meat to prevent sticking.

For a leaner version, you can substitute turkey or chicken, but add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent drying out.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.

Substitutions & Variations

If you are exploring how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer but have dietary restrictions, do not worry. You can easily swap the red meat for ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that poultry dries out faster, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mix.

For a vegetarian twist, try using a plant-based meat substitute. While the texture differs, the spice blend remains the same. Additionally, you can vary the spices to suit your palate.

Some people enjoy adding a pinch of cinnamon or allspice for a deeper, more traditional Lebanese flavor. If you lack fresh parsley, dried herbs work in a pinch, though the flavor is less vibrant. How to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer is a flexible process that welcomes your personal touch.

While exploring lighter alternatives for your main course, you might also enjoy discovering hearty seafood options for cooler evenings. For a classic comfort meal that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, try this Bar harbor new england clam chowder recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to master how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer. Preparation is key to achieving that perfect texture every single time.

Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.

First, place the ground meat in a large mixing bowl. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and all the spices. Using your hands is the best way to ensure everything integrates perfectly.

However, do not overwork the meat. Over-mixing leads to a tough, rubbery kebab. Instead, mix until the ingredients just combine. This is a crucial tip for anyone learning how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer.

Next, divide the meat mixture into equal-sized portions. I usually aim for about 2-3 ounces per kebab. Shape the meat into long, oval logs.

If you are using wooden skewers, make sure they fit inside your air fryer basket. Carefully thread the meat onto the skewers, pressing firmly so it stays in place. If you prefer, you can skip the skewers entirely and just form meat logs. This makes making kofta kebabs in the air fryer even easier for quick lunches.

Now, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the meat starts searing immediately. Spray the air fryer basket with a light coating of olive oil.

Place the kebabs in a single layer inside the basket. Do not overcrowd them, as the air needs space to circulate. Usually, I cook about 4-5 at a time depending on the basket size. This is the heart of how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer.

Cook the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, around the 6-minute mark, open the basket and carefully flip each kebab. This ensures even browning on all sides.

When the internal temperature reaches 160°F, they are ready. Remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, which is the final secret of how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer success.

Pro Tips for Success

To truly excel at how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer, keep these expert tips in mind. First, always squeeze the liquid out of your grated onions. If you skip this, the extra moisture will make the meat mixture too wet, and the kebabs might fall off the skewers.

Second, wet your hands with a little water or oil before shaping the meat. This prevents the mixture from sticking to your palms and helps you create a smoother surface. Consequently, your air fried kofta kebabs will look much more professional.

Third, use a meat thermometer. Since every air fryer model behaves differently, timing can vary by a minute or two. A thermometer guarantees you won’t serve undercooked or dry meat.

Fourth, if you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before cooking kofta kebabs in an air fryer. This prevents them from charring or catching fire under the intense heat. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with the “air fry” and “roast” settings to see which one your specific machine handles better for how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer.

Mastering the texture of your savory dishes often inspires a desire for perfectly balanced sweet treats that fit your lifestyle. After enjoying your protein-packed meal, you can indulge in a low-carb dessert by following these Keto Chow Ice Cream Recipes.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Knowing how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer also includes knowing how to handle leftovers. If you have extra kebabs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They make excellent additions to salads or wraps the next day.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked kebabs for up to two months. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

To reheat, I highly recommend using the air fryer again rather than the microwave. Microwaving often makes the meat rubbery. Instead, place the leftovers back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-5 minutes.

This restores the exterior texture while warming the middle. How to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer for the second time is just as easy as the first! Your family will appreciate the revived flavor and texture.

What to Serve With This Recipe

When you have finished making kofta kebabs in the air fryer, you need the perfect accompaniments. I love serving mine over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or quinoa. A side of warm pita bread is also essential for scooping up the meat.

Additionally, a fresh cucumber and tomato salad provides a cooling contrast to the warm spices of the kebabs. No Mediterranean meal is complete without a dollop of creamy tzatziki or hummus. The tanginess of the yogurt sauce perfectly complements the rich lamb and beef flavors you achieved by how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer.

If you want a more “street food” vibe, wrap the kebabs in flatbread with pickled red onions and a drizzle of tahini sauce. For a low-carb option, serve the kebabs over a large Greek salad with plenty of feta cheese and olives. Honestly, the versatility of these kebabs is why I love how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer so much. You can change the sides every time and feel like you are eating a completely different meal.

Choosing nutrient-dense sides helps you maintain a balanced diet while still enjoying flavorful, satisfying meals every day. If you are focused on long-term wellness and metabolic health, you might be interested in this Homemade Mounjaro Recipe To Lose Weight.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meat for this recipe?

You should always thaw your meat completely before cooking kofta kebabs in an air fryer. If you use frozen meat, the spices will not mix in properly, and the texture will suffer. Furthermore, the outside will burn before the inside reaches a safe temperature. Plan ahead and thaw your beef and lamb in the refrigerator the night before.

How do I keep the meat from falling off the skewers?

This is a common concern when learning how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer. Ensure you squeeze all the liquid from the onions and do not add too much moisture to the meat. Also, chill the shaped kebabs in the fridge for 30 minutes before air frying. Cold fat helps the meat hold its shape better during the initial blast of heat.

What temperature should the meat reach?

For ground beef and lamb, the USDA recommends an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). When you are making kofta kebabs in the air fryer, check them around the 10-minute mark to ensure they don’t overcook. Pull them out just as they hit the target temperature to maintain maximum juiciness.

Do I need to use skewers?

Not at all! While skewers look beautiful, they are not strictly necessary for how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer. You can shape the meat into small patties or logs and place them directly in the basket. The taste remains exactly the same, and it saves a bit of preparation time.

Traditional kofta consists of minced meat mixed with aromatic spices and herbs, originating from diverse culinary traditions across the Middle East and Central Asia. This modern preparation method utilizes convection technology to achieve a crispy exterior similar to that of a classic Middle Eastern kebab without the need for an outdoor grill.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

The following values are estimates based on using a 2:1 ratio of beef to lamb. This how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer recipe serves approximately four people.

Ultimately, learning how to cook kofta kebabs in air fryer is a game-changer for any home cook. It combines the deep, complex flavors of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine with the modern convenience of air frying. Whether you are cooking for a crowd or just preparing a quick lunch for yourself, this method delivers perfection every time.

I hope your family enjoys these kebabs as much as mine does. Remember, food is love, and making kofta kebabs in the air fryer is a wonderful way to share that love with the people at your table. Happy cooking!