If you are looking for a comforting and hearty dish that brings the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory beef together, then this French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that combines classic French onion soup elements with the wholesome goodness of ground beef and fresh vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making this French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe so delicious. Each element plays a key role in delivering just the right mix of flavor, texture, and heartiness that makes this dish such a winner.
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef: The star protein that provides a rich, meaty base for the savoury mince.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle fruitiness and helps to soften the onions perfectly.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Essential for that classic French onion flavor and sweetness.
- 1 packet (1.5 oz or 40g) French onion soup mix: Packs a punch of concentrated onion and herb seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Gives depth and a slight tanginess that balances the beef and onions.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and richer beef flavor, helping simmer the ingredients tenderly.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Brings bursts of sweetness and color to the dish.
- 1/2 cup frozen corn: Adds a gentle crunch and subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- 1 carrot, grated: Introduces natural sweetness and extra nutrition without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Amplifies savory notes and adds a complex umami undertone.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance all the layered flavors harmoniously.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, vibrant finish that brightens up the presentation.
How to Make French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe
Step 1: Softening the Onions
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and cook gently for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and translucent. This step is key to unlocking their sweet, mellow flavor, setting the tone for the whole dish.
Step 2: Browning the Ground Beef
Next, add your ground beef to the skillet with the softened onions. Break it up with the back of your spoon or spatula and cook until it’s completely browned and no longer pink. This process caramelizes the meat slightly, giving your mince that irresistible depth of flavor. If there’s any excess fat, drain it now to keep the dish light and balanced.
Step 3: Adding the French Onion Soup Mix and Tomato Paste
Now it’s time to stir in the French onion soup mix and tomato paste. These two ingredients work magic together, creating a rich, savory base that elevates the mince from ordinary to wonderfully comforting. Mix them well so every bit of beef and onion is coated with that luscious flavor combination.
Step 4: Pouring in the Broth and Veggies
Pour in the beef broth to loosen the mixture and add moisture for simmering. Toss in the grated carrot, peas, corn, and Worcestershire sauce as well. Each veggie adds texture, color, and a touch of sweetness, making the dish not only tasty but also perfectly balanced. Stir everything together so all the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the mixture will thicken slightly, and the vegetables will soften just right. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
How to Serve French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a fresh herbal note that contrasts nicely with the rich meat and onions. It lightens the dish visually and flavor-wise, making each bite even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Serve it piping hot over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic feel, spoon it onto steamed rice for a no-fuss option, or even pile it onto warm toast for a quick and satisfying snack. For a lighter take, cauliflower mash works beautifully to keep it low-carb without sacrificing comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Use this savory mince as a filling for pies or pastry shells to create handheld meals that are perfect for potlucks or lunchboxes. Alternatively, serve it stuffed into baked potatoes or even as a topping for homemade flatbreads – the rich flavors of the French onion mix pair wonderfully with many bases.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe, it stores exceptionally well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a great option for meal prepping your week, saving you time and stress on busy evenings.
Freezing
This savoury mince freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and it will keep for 2 to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain its texture and flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the mince in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until evenly heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick. Avoid microwaving for best texture retention, but that is an option if you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and rich, you can substitute ground lamb, pork, or turkey depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is properly cooked.
Is the French onion soup mix necessary?
The French onion soup mix is a shortcut that infuses the mince with authentic onion and herb flavors. If you don’t have it on hand, you could make your own blend of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and herbs, but the packet really simplifies things and guarantees great taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a plant-based twist. Both options soak up the flavors wonderfully and still provide a hearty, satisfying texture.
What can I do to reduce the sodium content?
To lower sodium, use a low-sodium beef broth or homemade broth, and check the salt content of your French onion soup mix. Additionally, you can reduce added salt and taste as you go to keep control over the seasoning.
How spicy is this dish?
This French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe is mild and comforting with no added heat, making it perfect for all family members. If you like, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to give it a gentle kick.
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes that blends simplicity and flavor effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a delightful way to enjoy the rich taste of French onion in a hearty mince form. Give it a go—you’ll find it’s not just dinner, it’s a deliciously memorable experience.
Print
French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Australian/British
Description
French Onion Savoury Mince is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef with the rich taste of French onion soup mix, tender vegetables, and a hint of tomato paste. Perfect as a comforting main meal, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or toast for a satisfying family dinner or budget-friendly meal prep option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (500g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet (1.5 oz or 40g) French onion soup mix
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent, building the flavorful base for the mince.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly while breaking it up with a spoon, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add seasoning and tomato paste: Stir in the French onion soup mix and tomato paste, blending well to distribute the rich, savory flavors evenly throughout the meat mixture.
- Combine broth and vegetables: Pour in the beef broth along with the grated carrot, frozen peas, frozen corn, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together to combine all ingredients fully.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender, while the mixture thickens slightly to a perfect consistency.
- Season and garnish: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley if desired, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
- Serving suggestion: Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, toast, or use as a filling for savory pies to enjoy a comforting, versatile meal.
Notes
- This dish is freezer-friendly, making it excellent for meal prep and easy weeknight dinners.
- To increase fiber and bulk, consider adding lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
- For a low-carb variation, substitute traditional mash with cauliflower mash as a base.
- Adjust seasoning carefully, especially salt, as the French onion soup mix and beef broth can be quite salty.
- This recipe is budget-friendly and great for feeding a family or batch cooking.
