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

Beef shakshuka is a hearty twist on the classic Middle Eastern and North African dish traditionally made with eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce. By adding seasoned ground beef, this version becomes a more filling, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s rich, savory, and aromatic with warm spices and fresh herbs — and best of all, it all comes together in one skillet.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander

  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 46 large eggs

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

  • Crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the beef: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 6–7 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.

  • Add vegetables and spices: Stir in onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

  • Build the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.

  • Add the eggs: Make small wells in the sauce with a spoon and crack eggs into each well. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny (cook longer if you prefer firmer yolks).

  • Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and crumbled feta, if using. Serve hot with pita bread, crusty bread, or rice.