Easy Savoury Mince Recipe

This easy savoury mince recipe is a comforting, budget-friendly classic that has been a staple in my family for generations. It’s not just delicious but also incredibly practical for meal planning, making it a go-to option for busy weekdays. Perfect for batch cooking and freezing, this rich and hearty dish is a lifesaver on hectic nights when you need something satisfying and filling. Whether you serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, hearty pasta, or even crunchy toast, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family.

One of the things I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences by swapping the meat, adding different vegetables, or adjusting the seasoning. It’s also a fantastic way to use up any leftover ingredients lurking in your fridge. Plus, the slow-cooked flavors develop even further when reheated, making leftovers just as tasty, if not better, the next day.

A hearty bowl of savoury mince served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

If you’re looking to stretch your budget further, you can mix in some lentils or beans to bulk up the dish while adding extra protein and fiber. Another great tip is to make a double batch and freeze half for a fuss-free future meal. This savoury mince is the definition of comfort food, making me nostalgic for the delicious home-cooked meals I grew up with.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile: Use it as a base for bolognese, chilli con carne, or a minced beef pie.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and frozen vegetables.
  • One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required!
  • Kid-Friendly: A mild and flavorful dish the whole family can enjoy.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

A hearty bowl of savoury mince served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
  • 500g lean minced beef (or swap for lamb, turkey, or Quorn mince for a vegetarian version)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tbsp plain flour (for thickening)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, oregano, and rosemary)
  • 300ml beef stock (or vegetable/chicken stock for a lighter taste)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or Marmite (for a deep umami flavour)
  • 200g frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans, or sweetcorn)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp mustard powder (optional, for extra depth of flavour)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (for extra umami richness)
  • 1 small carrot, grated (adds a natural sweetness and texture)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and cook for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and golden.

Step 2: Brown the Mince

Increase the heat and add the minced beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, making sure to stir frequently. This should take around 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary, and season lightly with salt and pepper to build layers of flavor.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in the flour and cook for a minute, ensuring it coats the beef evenly. Then mix in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to develop fully.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Mix in the frozen vegetables, grated carrot, and mustard powder. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you prefer a more intense flavor, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to enhance the richness of the sauce.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in the soy sauce and let the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in before serving. For an extra depth of flavor, you can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika at this stage. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Savoury Mince

  • Use quality mince: Opt for beef with less than 12% fat for a leaner dish.
  • Enhance the gravy: If you want a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry.
  • Customize it: Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy twist or fresh herbs for extra flavour.
  • Balance the flavours: A touch of sugar or balsamic vinegar can help balance the acidity.
  • Use fresh garlic and onion: Avoid powders for a richer, deeper taste.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty minced beef recipe pairs beautifully with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes – A smooth and buttery classic that perfectly complements the rich mince.
  • Rice or pasta – A great way to make this dish even more filling and stretch it further.
  • Garlic green beans – Add a fresh, vibrant side to balance the savory flavors.
  • Yorkshire pudding (a fun way to serve it for kids!) – The light and fluffy texture pairs well with the hearty mince.
  • Jacket potatoes for a filling lunch – Simply spoon the mince over a baked potato and top with cheese.
  • Crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce – Nothing beats a warm, crusty baguette to mop up every last bit.
  • Cheesy polenta – A creamy and cheesy alternative to mashed potatoes.
  • Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, carrots, or peas add extra nutrition and color to your plate.
  • Stuffed bell peppers – Use the mince as a filling for bell peppers and bake for a tasty variation.
  • Topped with an egg – A fried or poached egg on top adds extra richness and flavor.

Variations to Try

A hearty bowl of savoury mince served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
  • Make it spicy – Add chilli powder, a can of kidney beans, or finely chopped fresh chilies.
  • Slow cooker version – Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a richer, deeper flavor.
  • Vegetarian twist – Swap beef mince for Quorn or lentils and add mushrooms for extra texture.
  • Extra veg – Try adding peppers, courgettes, mushrooms, or even finely diced sweet potatoes.
  • Add a smoky touch – A pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder enhances the flavour.
  • Use red wine – A splash of red wine in the sauce elevates the taste and adds depth.
  • Cheesy topping – Sprinkle some grated cheddar or parmesan on top for extra indulgence.
  • Sweet and savory balance – Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Herby freshness – Stir in fresh parsley, thyme, or basil just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating

  • Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Microwave until hot or warm on the stovetop.
  • Freeze: Once cooled, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What can I add to mince for more flavour?

Try Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a splash of red wine.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Swap flour for cornstarch and use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.

Can I make savoury mince in advance?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavours develop over time.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Use flour, cornstarch, or thickening granules to achieve the perfect consistency.

Can I add beans or lentils to the dish?

Absolutely! Black beans, kidney beans, or lentils can make the dish heartier and more nutritious.

Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest for later and share your version in the comments below!

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A hearty bowl of savoury mince served with mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Easy Savoury Mince Recipe


  • Author: Alexandra Roa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This easy savoury mince recipe is a comforting, budget-friendly classic that has been a staple in my family for generations. Perfect for batch cooking and freezing, it’s a lifesaver on hectic nights when you need something satisfying and filling.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g lean minced beef (or substitute with lamb, turkey, or Quorn mince)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tbsp plain flour
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
  • 300ml beef stock
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or Marmite
  • 200g frozen mixed vegetables
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp mustard powder (optional)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 small carrot, grated

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
  2. Increase the heat and add the minced beef, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in the flour, then mix in the tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Add the frozen vegetables, grated carrot, and mustard powder. Cook for another 6-8 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the soy sauce and let the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water before adding. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: British

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: savoury mince, easy mince recipe, budget-friendly meals

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