Beef Shakshuka Recipe: A Hearty Twist on a Middle Eastern Classic

Few dishes are as vibrant and versatile as shakshuka. Traditionally made with poached eggs in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, this North African and Middle Eastern staple has become a global favorite. But did you know you can take shakshuka to the next level with beef?

Beef shakshuka is a hearty, protein-packed variation that combines spiced ground beef with the classic tomato base and gently poached eggs. It’s warm, flavorful, and perfect for any time of day—whether you’re serving brunch, enjoying a cozy dinner, or meal-prepping for the week.

I first encountered beef shakshuka in a small café in Tel Aviv. The addition of beef made the dish heartier, transforming it from a light breakfast into a full meal. Since then, it’s been one of my favorite recipes to whip up when I want something bold, comforting, and satisfying.

What Is Beef Shakshuka?

Shakshuka originates from North Africa but is widely embraced across the Middle East. At its core, it features eggs poached in a simmering sauce of tomatoes, onions, and peppers, seasoned with spices like cumin and paprika.

Beef shakshuka adds seasoned ground beef (or sometimes minced lamb) to the sauce, giving it extra richness and making it more filling. The result is a cross between a hearty stew and a classic shakshuka, ideal for serving with crusty bread or warm pita to scoop up every last bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Beef Shakshuka Recipe

• Hearty and filling – A full meal with beef, vegetables, and eggs.

• Packed with flavor – Spiced ground beef simmered with garlic, onions, and tomatoes.

• Versatile – Serve for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

• One-pan meal – Everything cooks in the same skillet.

• Customizable – Adjust spices, add veggies, or make it spicy to suit your taste.

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Ingredients for Beef Shakshuka

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or lean if preferred)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• ½ teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (or use fresh, peeled, chopped tomatoes)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• ½ cup beef broth or water

• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Eggs and Garnish:

• 5–6 large eggs

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.

2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula until browned.

3. Remove excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Spices

1. Add onion and bell pepper to the beef. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce

1. Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly to deepen flavor.

2. Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth.

3. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or sugar if needed.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

1. Use a spoon to make small wells in the sauce.

2. Crack eggs into the wells.

3. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks remain runny.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.

2. Top with crumbled feta if desired.

3. Serve immediately with crusty bread, pita, or rice.

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Serving Suggestions

Beef shakshuka is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with sides and accompaniments:

• Bread for dipping – Crusty baguette, sourdough, or warm pita bread.

• Rice or couscous – Turns it into a heartier dinner.

• Fresh salad – A cucumber and tomato salad adds freshness.

• Yogurt or labneh – A cooling side to balance the spices.

For drinks, pair it with strong coffee for breakfast, mint tea for brunch, or a bold red wine for dinner.

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Tips for the Best Beef Shakshuka

• Use a large skillet – Wide and shallow pans help cook the eggs evenly.

• Cook eggs gently – Keep yolks runny for the best texture.

• Adjust spice level – Add jalapeños, harissa, or cayenne if you like it spicy.

• Don’t overcook – The eggs continue cooking from residual heat, so serve promptly.

• Add vegetables – Spinach, zucchini, or eggplant work well.

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Variations of Beef Shakshuka

The beauty of shakshuka lies in its adaptability. Try these delicious variations:

• Lamb Shakshuka – Use ground lamb for a richer flavor.

• Green Shakshuka – Replace tomatoes with spinach, kale, or zucchini and add green herbs.

• Cheesy Shakshuka – Stir in mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese for creaminess.

• Spicy Harissa Shakshuka – Add a spoonful of harissa paste for smoky heat.

• Vegetable-Packed Version – Add mushrooms, eggplant, or chickpeas to bulk it up.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer – Freeze the beef-tomato sauce (without eggs) for up to 2 months. Reheat and add fresh eggs when ready to serve.

• Reheating – Warm gently on the stovetop. If eggs are already in the dish, reheat on low heat to avoid overcooking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shakshuka without beef?
Yes! Classic shakshuka is vegetarian, so you can skip the beef and keep it traditional.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Skip the feta garnish or use a dairy-free alternative.

What if I don’t like runny yolks?
Simply cook the eggs longer until the yolks are firm.

Can I meal prep shakshuka?
Yes. Prepare the beef and tomato base in advance, then add eggs right before serving.

What’s the best cookware for shakshuka?
A cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan works best to retain heat and cook eggs evenly.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving, 6 servings)

• Calories: 360

• Protein: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Fat: 22g

• Fiber: 4g

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Conclusion

Beef shakshuka is a flavorful, hearty twist on a beloved Middle Eastern classic. With spiced ground beef, a rich tomato base, and perfectly poached eggs, it’s a dish that works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The best part? It’s a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough for entertaining.

Whether you enjoy it with warm pita for dipping, a side of rice, or a crisp salad, beef shakshuka is guaranteed to satisfy. Once you try this recipe, it just might become a regular in your kitchen.

So, fire up your skillet, crack a few eggs, and enjoy a steaming, savory serving of beef shakshuka tonight.

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