If you’re craving a hearty, homey dinner that truly warms you from the inside out, look no further than French Onion Savoury Mince. This is comfort food that brings friends and family running to the kitchen with its savory aroma and deep, rich flavors. Thanks to the magic of French onion soup mix and a handful of pantry staples, you get a meal that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve it piled high on creamy mash, fluffy rice, or crisp, golden toast, French Onion Savoury Mince is destined to become one of your weeknight staples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun here, and each one plays a key role in creating the deep, layered flavors that make French Onion Savoury Mince irresistible. Even the simplest components find ways to shine, adding color, body, or a hint of sweetness and spice to the dish.
- Olive oil: Provides the base for sautéing and brings out the natural sweetness in the onions.
- Onion: The star player—its caramelized sweetness forms the heart of the dish.
- Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and a lovely, subtle bite.
- Beef mince (ground beef): Choose lean for a lighter meal, or regular for heartiness and flavor.
- French onion soup mix: The secret ingredient for instant savory complexity and that classic onion flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce: Brings a tangy, umami-rich zing that makes everything taste beefier.
- Tomato paste: Adds body, color, and a touch of natural sweetness to balance the onions.
- Beef stock: Helps the mince become saucy and full-flavored—use a good quality stock for best results.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: For a pop of color and easy nutrients—no chopping or prep required.
- Dried thyme: Offers an earthy note that rounds out the robust flavor of the sauce.
- Black pepper: Just a hint adds warmth and keeps the dish lively.
- Salt to taste: Essential for seasoning—adjust depending on your soup mix and broth.
How to Make French Onion Savoury Mince
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Start things off by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and starts to turn translucent—don’t rush this step, since those slow-cooked onions give the French Onion Savoury Mince its signature flavor. Stir in the garlic for the last 30 seconds until the kitchen smells absolutely incredible.
Step 2: Brown the Beef Mince
Add the beef mince to your skillet and break it up with a spoon. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned all over. If your mince lets off a bit of extra fat, go ahead and drain it at this stage—it’s all about keeping things hearty, not greasy.
Step 3: Build the French Onion Savoury Mince Flavors
Now comes the transformation! Sprinkle in the French onion soup mix, then add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and dried thyme. Give it a good stir so everything’s evenly distributed—the mixture should look thick and super savory already. Every time you stir, you’ll notice the sauce getting richer and more fragrant.
Step 4: Simmer with Vegetables
Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Fold in the frozen mixed vegetables, making sure they’re well distributed. Reduce the heat and let the pan bubble away for 10 to 15 minutes—stirring now and then—until the sauce has thickened and the vegetables are beautifully tender. The kitchen will smell so inviting, you’ll be tempted to sneak a taste!
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finish your French Onion Savoury Mince by seasoning it with black pepper and a little salt (taste as you go, since the soup mix already adds some saltiness). When everything is perfectly seasoned and piping hot, you’re ready to plate up. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and watch those bowls get scraped clean.
How to Serve French Onion Savoury Mince
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, top your French Onion Savoury Mince with a handful of freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese. The parsley gives a bright, fresh finish while cheese adds indulgence—try cheddar or even a little Gruyère to echo the dish’s French onion roots.
Side Dishes
This dish loves a starchy companion! Spoon it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy steamed rice, or thick-cut toast for soaking up all the rich gravy. Crusty baguette or even buttered noodles are delicious ways to mop up every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, try transforming French Onion Savoury Mince into individual pot pies—spoon the mince into oven-safe dishes, top with store-bought puff pastry, and bake until golden. You can also serve it in lettuce cups for a lighter, fun twist, or pile it onto baked potatoes for a satisfying meal-in-one.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
French Onion Savoury Mince keeps exceptionally well in the fridge. Pop any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making next-day servings even tastier—perfect for quick lunches or easy suppers.
Freezing
This mince is a meal-prep hero. Cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks when you still crave a home-cooked meal.
Reheating
To reheat, spoon the mince into a saucepan, add a splash of water or extra beef stock if it’s thickened up, and gently heat on the stovetop until piping hot. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, until everything is warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! French Onion Savoury Mince works beautifully with turkey mince, chicken mince, or even a mix of beef and pork for extra richness. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for canned lentils or plant-based mince—just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is it okay to add other veggies?
Definitely. This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to toss in mushrooms, spinach, peas, or diced bell pepper. The more, the merrier (and the more nutritious your French Onion Savoury Mince will be)!
Can I make French Onion Savoury Mince in advance?
French Onion Savoury Mince is perfect for making ahead! The flavors intensify after a day in the fridge, and it reheats like a dream. Just prepare as directed, cool, and store. It’s ideal for prepping on a Sunday for stress-free weeknight dinners.
What can I use if I don’t have French onion soup mix?
If you’re in a pinch, sauté extra onions until deeply caramelized and add a little extra stock with a pinch of garlic and onion powder. While the soup mix brings signature flavor, this homemade version gets you pretty close!
How can I lighten up this dish?
To make a lighter version of French Onion Savoury Mince, use lean beef mince or swap for chicken or turkey mince. You can also increase the amount of veggies or serve it with cauliflower mash to lighten things up even more.
Final Thoughts
Truly, there’s just something about a bowl of French Onion Savoury Mince that feels like home—savory, hearty, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. It’s easy enough to make on a weeknight but special enough to serve to company. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite family dinner!
Print
French Onion Savoury Mince Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Australian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful French Onion Savoury Mince recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a family meal. This dish combines beef mince with French onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and vegetables for a delicious stovetop meal that pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients
For the French Onion Savoury Mince:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 500g (1.1 lb) beef mince (ground beef)
- 1 packet (40g) French onion soup mix
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic: Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Cook the beef mince: Brown for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add soup mix and seasonings: Stir in French onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and thyme.
- Simmer with stock and veggies: Pour in beef stock, add mixed vegetables, and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Season and serve: Season with pepper and salt. Serve hot with preferred sides.
Notes
- This dish is great for meal prep and reheating.
- You can use turkey or lentils as substitutes.
- For added nutrition, consider adding mushrooms or spinach.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
