Why this fits a family on a budget
Ground beef is one of the cheapest proteins per pound at US grocery stores, and the entire wrap comes together in about 35 minutes with simple mixing and air frying. The tzatziki doubles as a sauce and a veggie element, cutting down on extra ingredients and cost.
1. Start by making the tzatziki: grate half the cucumber using a box grater. Grab handfuls of the grated cucumber and squeeze out as much water as possible over the sink — this is important so the sauce isn't watery.
2. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, 1 minced garlic clove, juice of half the lemon, dill, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, 2 minced garlic cloves, oregano, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined — do not overmix or the kofta will be tough.
4. Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each into a log shape about 3 inches long and 1 inch wide, like a small sausage.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
6. Place kofta logs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each. Work in two batches if needed — do not stack.
7. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 5-minute mark. Kofta are done when they are browned on the outside and no longer pink inside, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F.
8. While the kofta cook, thinly slice red onion and dice the tomatoes and the remaining cucumber half.
9. Warm pita breads by placing them directly in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes at 350°F after the kofta are done, or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds each.
10. To assemble: spread a generous spoonful of tzatziki down the center of each warm pita. Add 2 kofta, then top with diced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion slices. Squeeze remaining lemon over the top.
11. Fold the pita around the filling and serve immediately.
Contains: dairy, wheat. Always double-check labels for your household's allergies.
Cost is a national-average estimate and varies by store and region.
This recipe was generated by Plento Pasto's AI from a library of family-friendly dishes and reviewed for a real photo before publishing. Cooking times, costs, and nutrition are estimates — use your judgment in the kitchen.