Make it from Scratch Monday
Start the week strong with one versatile, freezer-friendly recipe.
When you’re short on time but still want real food on the table, a big batch of savoury mince is your secret weapon. It’s easy to cook, stretches across multiple meals, and works with whatever’s already in your fridge.
This isn’t just dinner — it’s your head start for the week.
What Is Savoury Mince?
It’s simply seasoned beef, lamb, or chicken mince cooked down with onion, garlic, grated vegetables, tomato, and herbs — a humble base that adapts beautifully into dozens of meals. No packet mixes. No fillers. Just good food.
How to Use It
Here’s how to turn one cook-up into a week of meals:
- Cottage pie: Layer with mashed potato and bake until golden
- Tacos or nachos: Add beans and spices, then top with salad and cheese
- Mince and rice bowls: Serve with brown rice and roast veg
- Quesadillas or wraps: Mix with cheese and any leftover veg
- Stuffed vegetables: Spoon into halved capsicums, zucchinis, or jacket potatoes
- Freeze for future meals: Cool completely, then store in labelled containers
Basic Savoury Mince Recipe (Double or Triple It)
Ingredients
- 1 kg beef or lamb mince
- 1 brown onion, diced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
- Optional: ½ cup frozen peas, lentils, or corn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pan. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic.
- Add mince and cook until browned.
- Stir in vegetables, tomato paste, oregano, and chopped tomatoes.
- Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes until thickened. Season to taste.
- Let cool before storing or freezing.
Batch Cooking Tips
- Add a splash of broth if the mix dries out while simmering.
- Swap in any grated veg you have on hand — think sweet potato, parsnip, or celery.
- Add lentils or white beans to stretch it further and boost the fibre.
Storage Notes
- Refrigerate for 3–4 days
- Freeze in 1–2 cup portions for up to 3 months
- Label clearly with date and portion size
Why This Works
- Saves money and time
- Cuts down food waste
- Makes healthy eating more manageable
- Gives you flexibility for last-minute meals
Make it once, eat well all week — that’s the beauty of a living pantry and a well-stocked freezer.