Introduction
When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes hold a candle to a traditional Scottish mince and tatties recipe. This humble meal of minced beef and mashed potatoes is rich, hearty, and wonderfully nostalgic. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel instantly at home — warm, satisfied, and content after every bite.
What makes mince and tatties so special is its simplicity. With just a few affordable ingredients, you can create a meal that’s packed with flavor and texture — a silky gravy coating tender beef, spooned over buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re craving a taste of Scotland or just want a cozy dinner on a cold night, this recipe never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥘 Hearty and wholesome: Perfect for when you need a satisfying meal after a long day.
- 💛 Budget-friendly: Made with simple pantry staples that don’t break the bank.
- ⏱️ Quick and easy: Ready in about 45 minutes from start to finish.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-approved: Great for kids and adults alike — pure comfort in every bite.
- 🇬🇧 Authentic Scottish taste: A piece of culinary heritage right on your plate.
Ingredients
(Serves 4 | Prep: 10 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 45 min)
For the Mince:
- 500g minced beef (lean mince gives a balanced flavor)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced small (for natural sweetness)
- 2 tbsp plain flour (to thicken the gravy)
- 300ml beef stock (low-sodium if possible)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tatties (Mashed Potatoes):
- 700g potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 50g butter
- 100ml warm milk
- Salt, to taste
🖼️ Image Alt Text Suggestions:
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Mince:
Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the minced beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed. - Add Veggies:
Stir in the chopped onion and diced carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and release their sweetness. - Thicken the Mixture:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir well. Cook for 1–2 minutes — this helps thicken the gravy later and removes the raw flour taste. - Create the Gravy:
Gradually pour in the beef stock while stirring to prevent lumps. Add tomato puree and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer. - Simmer Until Rich:
Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the mince becomes glossy and flavorful. - Make the Tatties:
While the mince simmers, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well, then mash with butter and warm milk until smooth and fluffy. Season to taste. - Serve:
Spoon a generous portion of mashed tatties onto each plate and top with the savory mince. Garnish with chopped parsley or peas if you like.
Expert Tips & Common Mistakes
- Use quality beef stock: It’s the key to a deep, rich gravy.
- Don’t skip the flour: It gives the mince its signature thick texture.
- Avoid over-mashing: Mash until creamy, not gluey.
- Make ahead: The mince tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Variations & Substitutions
- Healthier version: Use turkey or chicken mince for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace beef with lentils or meat-free mince and use vegetable stock.
- Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, peas, or celery for more flavor and color.
- Creamy mash: Add a splash of cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your mince and tatties with:
- Steamed green beans or garden peas
- Pickled beetroot or red cabbage
- A drizzle of brown sauce or gravy for authentic Scottish flair
Serve it in a deep bowl with plenty of gravy for that comforting, homemade feel.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
FAQs (Schema-Ready)
What is mince and tatties made of?
It’s a traditional Scottish meal made from minced beef simmered in gravy, served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Can you freeze mince and tatties?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What’s the best mince to use?
Use lean beef mince (10–15% fat) for the best balance of richness and flavor.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap beef for lentils or plant-based mince and use vegetable stock.
Conclusion
This classic mince and tatties recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, flavor-packed meal that brings people together. Whether you grew up eating it in Scotland or are discovering it for the first time, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
💬 Give it a try and let me know how yours turned out in the comments!
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