Veggie-Loaded Savoury Mince

Name: Veggie-Loaded Savoury Mince
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Australian
Ingredients: 500g (1 lb) extra lean ground beef; 1 brown onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 400g (14 oz) can diced tomatoes; 350g (about 2 cups) chopped cauliflower; 400g (14 oz) can brown lentils, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons plain flour; 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or water); 1 cup frozen peas

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This savoury mince is the kind of meal prep dinner we all need in our back pocket. It’s hearty, comforting, and pure one pan magic, loaded with seasoned beef, cauliflower, peas, carrots, and a rich, flavour packed sauce.

Savoury mince served in a bowl with a spoon.

Ahhh, the humble skillet meal. Simple, satisfying, and easy on the dishes. Just what we need at the end of a long day! This veggie loaded savoury mince is quickly climbing the ranks as a family favourite. It ticks every box: quick (hello, 30 minutes), packed with veggies (cauliflower, onions, carrots, and peas), and boosted with hearty ground beef and canned lentils for extra goodness. I add canned tomatoes for a saucier finish, then bring it all together with curry powder and Worcestershire sauce for that nostalgic, childhood-inspired flavour.

It’s the kind of versatile dish you can make ahead and enjoy in so many ways throughout the week. Spoon it over toast, rice, noodles, pasta or simply serve it straight from the pan for a cosy, fuss-free dinner.

Savoury mince in a skillet scooped with a spoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This old fashioned savoury mince recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients:

Ground beef: I prefer extra-lean (90%) so there’s no need to drain it, but 80% works too.
Onion: Brown, red, or even shallots — whatever you have on hand.
Vegetables: We do a mix of onion, carrot, chopped up cauliflower and frozen peas for a hit of goodness.
Carrots: Add a little natural sweetness.
Lentils: A can of brown lentils bulks it out and adds fibre (they blend right in — the kids won’t notice!).
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are ideal, but plum tomatoes, passata, or even tomato paste for a richer flavour will work.
Curry powder: Just a dash of mild curry powder for that classic flavour.
Flour: Plain (all-purpose) flour to thicken the gravy. Use or tapioca flour to keep it gluten free.
Worcestershire sauce: The secret flavour booster. You can swap for a splash of soy sauce or leave it out if needed.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

Ingredients shown to make the mince recipe.

How to Make Savoury Mince

Brown the beef: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pot over medium–high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for 3–4 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. It’s fine if a few small pieces are still slightly pink at this stage.

Add the vegetables and spices: Stir in the onion, carrots and curry powder. Cook for a few minutes, stirring and breaking everything up as it softens and becomes fragrant.

Carrots, onions and curry powder added to the meat.

Lentils. cauliflower and canned tomatoes added to the pan.

Build the flavour: Add the canned tomatoes, chopped cauliflower, lentils, Worcestershire sauce and salt. Stir well and cook for 5–6 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to soften slightly and the flavours to combine.

Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Add a splash of water (or stock) and stir until smooth.

Ground mince and veggies cooking in a pan.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and the vegetables are tender.

Add the peas: Stir in the peas during the final 5 minutes of cooking, allowing them to heat through.

Serve warm on toast, over mashed potatoes, or with rice for an easy, comforting meal.

Recipe Variations and Tips

Add More Veggies: Mix in button mushrooms, frozen corn, or baby spinach for extra flavor, colour, and texture.
Swap the Protein: Ground pork, turkey, or any other ground meat works perfectly in place of beef.
Save Time: Use pre-chopped vegetables, sweet potatoes, or frozen mixed veggies to cut down on prep time.

Side shot of the veggie mince served in a bowl with bread.

Serving Suggestions

With crusty bread or dinner rolls to mop up the sauce. My favorite way!
Over rice, pasta or noodles. The classic option and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
With mashed potatoes– comforting and hearty.
In lettuce cups for a lighter meal.
As a filling for savoury pastries or puff pastry pies.

How to Store

Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezer: Once cooled, transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based mince for a vegetarian-friendly option.

What can I use instead of lentils?

You can substitute with ⅓ cup uncooked quinoa or rice, 1 can of black beans. If adding rice or quinoa you’ll need to add 1 cup of extra broth.

What can I use in place of the cauliflower

You can use chopped up mushrooms or chopped broccoli. Cauliflower rice is great for sneaking it into the mince for picky eaters!

More One-Pan meals

The Best Lentil Chili Ever

One Pot Cajun Chicken Orzo (Risoni)

Chili Without Tomatoes

Chipotle Ground Beef & Cabbage Casserole

If you try this savoury mince recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.