If you're looking for a meal that’s affordable, versatile, and packed with nutrition, savoury mince is about to become your new best friend. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make in bulk, and can be transformed into multiple meals—saving you both time and money.
Think of it as your meal prep secret weapon! With just one batch, you can whip up:
✔️ Tacos
✔️ Spaghetti Bolognese
✔️ Nachos
✔️ Shepherd’s Pie
✔️ Loaded Baked Potatoes
✔️ Risotto
✔️ Or just serve it over rice for a quick and hearty meal
So, let’s get into the recipe!
Budget-Friendly Savoury Mince Recipe
🕒 Prep time: 10 minutes | 🍳 Cook time: 25 minutes | 👩🍳 Serves: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 500g lean beef mince (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 tin (400g) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for extra flavour)
- 1 cup beef stock (or veggie stock for a lighter version)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Method:
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
2️⃣ Add the mince and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
3️⃣ Stir in the grated carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms, letting them soften for a few minutes.
4️⃣ Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beef stock. Mix well.
5️⃣ Sprinkle in the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or more stock.
How to Use Your Savoury Mince for Meal Prep
Now that you’ve got a batch of delicious, protein-packed savoury mince, here’s how to repurpose it throughout the week:
🥑 Tacos: Scoop into wholegrain tortillas, top with avocado, cheese, and salsa.
🍝 Spaghetti Bolognese: Stir through cooked pasta and top with parmesan.
🥔 Loaded Baked Potatoes: Spoon over a baked potato, add Greek yoghurt and spring onions.
🥣 Risotto: Stir through cooked arborio rice with a little extra stock.
🌮 Nachos: Layer over corn chips, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until melted.
🥧 Shepherd’s Pie: Place in a baking dish, top with mashed sweet potato, and bake.
Why This Recipe is a Budget Superstar
✅ Uses simple, affordable ingredients – Most of these items are pantry staples!
✅ Makes multiple meals – One batch = a week of easy lunches and dinners.
✅ Freezer-friendly – Store portions in airtight containers for quick meals later.
✅ Hidden veggies – Great for kids (or adults!) who need extra nutrients.
Eating on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or nutrition. With this one simple recipe, you can create endless meal variations, save time in the kitchen, and cut down your grocery bill.
Tag us if you make it—we’d love to see your meal prep creations! 💕🍽️