Juicy Lula Kebabs Baked in the Oven (Lamb Kebabs)

This baked lamb kebab recipe is the simplest way to make juicy kebabs in the oven! Known as lula, kofta, or lulya kebabs, this dish combines high-quality minced or ground lamb, bacon, and spices. All you have to do is combine the meat mixture, put it on skewers, and bake! Enjoy this succulent lamb with a side, use it in a wrap, or eat it straight off the skewer! 

Why You’ll Love This Lamb Kebab Recipe

Calling all lamb lovers! I have an easy way for you to whip up dinner in no time. This lamb kebab recipe calls for simple ingredients that will perfectly enhance the flavor of the meat.

How do we make this recipe? Simple: Mix everything in a single bowl, shape it into a kebab, and then bake. No difficult steps here! Save this recipe and make it in the summer on the grill!

You will love how the tiny pieces of bacon elevate the already incredible flavor of the lamb. The fact that you can just throw these skewers in the oven to bake makes it so easy. You can (and should) also make the meat mixture ahead of time so it’s ready to skewer and cook.

This delicious lamb dish would pair perfectly with a yogurt dipping sauce, or served alongside your favorite salad. I have a few other lamb serving suggestions for you too!

Key Ingredients

Different regions and cultures have so many varieties of kebabs (or kabobs) in our world. Lamb skewers are one of my favorites. This recipe originates from parts of the Middle East and the Balkans!

While this recipe calls for simple ingredients, it’s important to keep in mind that the lamb meat itself is the most important. You can’t skimp on quality! 

Lamb – When you have good quality meat, you don’t need to add an excessive amount of spices and herbs to make it delicious. I consider humanely raised and ethically sourced lamb meat the best quality.

Hormone-free lambs raised on a healthy diet produce meat that is noticeably more succulent and tender. If you cannot find good ground lamb meat, a boneless leg of lamb is a great option. With a good knife, mince it well on a cutting board along with the bacon. 

Bacon – To keep things consistent, I like to use lamb bacon when I can. I get it from the Seven Sons company. However, regular pork or beef bacon will work great for this lamb kebab recipe too. 

Onion – chopped

Cilantro – Freshly chopped leaves. Cilantro is one of the best fresh herbs to mix into ground lamb meat!

Spices – Some salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin are the traditional Middle Eastern spices that you need. Add coriander and sumac to the Lula kebab meat for a more distinct flavor.

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

Expert Tips

• Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes before digging in. This helps lock in the juices, keeping them tender and flavorful with every bite.
• If you have time, let the meat mixture rest in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. This lets the spices blend and gives the kebabs even more depth of flavor.
• Serve these lamb kebabs atop a bed of rice and a yogurt sauce on the side!
• Prep the meat in advance and bake before serving for a delicious weeknight dinner that takes less prep when you’re ready to eat!
• Loose meat can crumble. Press it firmly onto the skewers, making sure there are no air pockets so it holds its shape while cooking. Making sure the meat is cold from the fridge is a good way to make sure the meat does not fall apart.
• Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the lamb kebabs comes to 160F.

Recipe FAQs

What to Serve With Lamb

• Start with some yummy appetizers! Try these baked zucchini crisps or a simple herb and eggplant appetizer with walnuts. 
• As for side dishes, you can serve your lula kebabs with Simple Homemade Buttery Mashed Potatoes or over a bed of rice.
• If you’re interested in a salad, try this refreshing olivier salad. A quick and creamy avocado and tomato salad pairs well! 
• Finish your meal with something sweet like homemade affogato, a zebra cake, or this simple Russian layered honey cake! 

More Lamb Recipes to Try

• Don’t limit your Shepherd’s Pie to beef – feel free to swap in lamb and try something new!
• Grilled lamb chops will satisfy your tastebud and make a delicious dinner the whole family will love.
• This one-pot hearty soup with lamb and herbs is one of the best winter comfort foods!

Tasty lamb recipes

If you tried this Juicy Baked Lamb Kebab Recipe (aka Lula and Kofta kebabs) or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you enjoyed it in the📝 comments below. I love hearing from you!