If you’re in the mood for something truly comforting that packs bold flavor into a simple, unfussy dinner, One-Pan Lebanese Kafta is an absolute must-try. This dish brings together juicy spiced meat, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes, and a blanket of savory tomato sauce, all baked together until the aroma alone draws the whole family into the kitchen. It’s the kind of easy classic that turns humble ingredients into a memorable meal — and you only need one pan from start to finish. If you’re ready to shake up your weeknight routine with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this is the recipe to reach for!

One-Pan Lebanese Kafta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of One-Pan Lebanese Kafta lies in its handful of simple, essential ingredients. Each ingredient has its own personality, adding a special something to the final dish—flavor, texture, or vibrant color—so don’t skip or skimp!

Ground beef or lamb: Provides the hearty, juicy base and absorbs all those signature Lebanese spices.
Onion: Grated for moisture and natural sweetness that ties the kafta mixture together.
Fresh parsley: Brings a burst of color and a grassy, aromatic note that keeps things fresh.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds warmth and a punch of flavor that sings when baked.
Ground allspice: A touch of earthy spice sets a truly authentic Middle Eastern tone.
Ground cinnamon: Just a whisper gives your kafta an addictive warmth and depth.
Salt and pepper: The essential duo for seasoning, sharpening, and balancing all the other flavors.
Potatoes: Sliced and nestled into the pan, these soak up the sauce and turn creamy and tender.
Tomatoes: Sliced into rounds for juiciness, color, and a hint of tang.
Tomato sauce: Poured over everything for extra moisture, flavor, and that iconic saucy finish.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything bake up with beautiful color and sheen.

How to Make One-Pan Lebanese Kafta

Step 1: Mix the Kafta

Start by combining your ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently combine—don’t overmix, just enough so everything is evenly distributed. This step is where all those flavors get to know each other and form the magic base for One-Pan Lebanese Kafta.

Step 2: Shape and Arrange the Kafta

Take golf ball–sized portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties or long ovals, about the size of your palm. Place them snuggly in a single layer into a well-oiled baking dish or sheet pan. There’s no need for perfection—rustic shapes are part of the charm!

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Tomatoes

Layer your sliced potatoes and tomatoes over and around the kafta patties, tucking them into any open spaces. Don’t worry if things look crowded; as everything bakes together, those flavors will mingle, and the juices will settle beautifully.

Step 4: Pour Over the Sauce

Whisk together your tomato sauce with a bit more salt, pepper, and olive oil, then pour it evenly over the contents of the pan. This adds loads of flavor and ensures the meat and veggies stay moist and tender as they bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the pan with foil and bake in a preheated oven until the potatoes are fork-tender and the meat is cooked through. Uncover for the last 10 minutes so everything can get a little golden and bubbly. As you pull this One-Pan Lebanese Kafta from the oven, prepare yourself for compliments!

How to Serve One-Pan Lebanese Kafta

Garnishes

Give your One-Pan Lebanese Kafta a finishing touch with a generous scattering of chopped fresh parsley or mint, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a few thinly sliced onions tossed with sumac for extra zing. These little details bring brightness and keep every plate irresistible.

Side Dishes

This dish is right at home with fluffy steamed rice or soft, warm pita bread to soak up all that sauce. A crisp cucumber-tomato salad or creamy hummus are the perfect cooling sides, rounding out a well-balanced meal the whole table will love.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to show off, serve your One-Pan Lebanese Kafta family-style in the baking dish, letting everyone dig in. For a more modern twist, stack layers of kafta, potatoes, and tomatoes in individual bowls, drizzling extra sauce and topping each with a swirl of yogurt and fresh herbs for an elegant plated look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One-Pan Lebanese Kafta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually get even better overnight, so tomorrow’s lunch just might steal the show!

Freezing

You can freeze One-Pan Lebanese Kafta either before or after baking. Just wrap tightly and store for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake or reheat following the instructions below for a quick, comforting meal on busy nights.

Reheating

To reheat, place the kafta and its sauce in a covered oven-safe dish and warm in a low oven (around 325°F) until heated through. You can also use the microwave for convenience, though the oven will preserve the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken for One-Pan Lebanese Kafta?

Absolutely! While beef and lamb are traditional, ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully for a lighter version. Just be sure to add a touch more olive oil to keep the mixture juicy.

What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape and have a creamy texture, making them perfect for baking into your One-Pan Lebanese Kafta. Russets will also work in a pinch!

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the meat with a blend of cooked lentils, mashed chickpeas, or store-bought plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist—just keep the same spices for classic flavor.

Can I prepare One-Pan Lebanese Kafta ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the whole dish (unbaked), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinnertime a breeze when you’re ready to cook.

What makes this different from regular meatballs?

The shape, spices, and classic potato-tomato layering set One-Pan Lebanese Kafta apart. The irresistible combination of allspice, cinnamon, and parsley is uniquely Lebanese and makes this dish stand out from your run-of-the-mill meatball bakes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s fuss-free but full of flavor, I can’t recommend One-Pan Lebanese Kafta enough. It’s a one-pan wonder that brings families together and never fails to impress. Grab your ingredients, invite someone you love to the table, and make this delightful classic your new go-to comfort meal!

Kimberly