A classic Scottish recipe that you can easily make in your slow cooker is this Mince and Tatties, using steak mince, yellow onions, carrots, and celery. You will end up with a delicious, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

To make Mince and Tatties in your slow cooker or crockpot, brown the mince, then add chopped vegetables and seasonings. Cover with broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours for best flavor and tenderness.

This dish always takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen where warmth and stories were as plentiful as her cooking. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any dinner.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh. There’s no need to thaw them; just add them directly to the slow cooker. This can save prep time and works well in this recipe.

Is it necessary to brown the mince before adding it to the slow cooker?

While it’s not strictly necessary, browning the mince before adding it to the slow cooker helps develop richer flavors and improves the texture of the meat.

Slow Cooker Mince And Tatties Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, or use cooking spray
• 450 grams (1 pound) steak mince, or lean ground beef as an alternative
• 2 yellow onions, finely diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 Oxo beef stock cube, crumbled
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) red wine or a dark ale (optional)
• 480 ml (2 cups) beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flat leaf parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 5 large Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Optional milk or reserved cooking water for mashing
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Slow Cooker Mince And Tatties

1. Prepare your slow cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or drizzle with vegetable oil.
2. Brown the mince: Heat a skillet over high heat, add the mince, and cook until nicely colored, about 5 minutes; transfer the mince to your slow cooker.
3. Combine ingredients: To the slow cooker, add onions, carrots, celery, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, garlic, and crumbled beef stock cube.
4. Deglaze and simmer: Add red wine or beer to the slow cooker; if not using, substitute with additional beef broth; stir to combine.
5. Cook: Add remaining beef broth, cover, and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours until the mince is tender.
6. Prepare the potatoes: When the mince is nearly done, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes; drain, reserve some cooking water, and mash with butter, adding reserved water or milk to achieve desired consistency; season with salt and pepper.
7. Final seasoning: Taste the mince, adjusting salt and pepper as necessary.
8. Serve: Plate the mince, top with mashed potatoes, and garnish with parsley.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Beef: Opt for high-quality lean ground beef to reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor in your dish.
• Manage Liquid Levels: In a slow cooker, liquids don’t evaporate much. If the mince seems too wet, leave the lid ajar in the last hour of cooking.
• Enhance Flavor: Browning the mince and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker deepens the dish’s flavors, making it more savory.
• Spice Wisely: Adjust the Worcestershire sauce and garlic according to your taste preferences; start with less, then add more as needed while cooking.
• Final Seasoning: Before serving, taste the mince and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper; this final step ensures the right balance.

Can I cook this on high instead of low in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the dish on high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time. However, cooking on low for 6-8 hours will generally give you more tender and flavorful results.

Recipe Variations

• Go Vegetarian: Substitute the beef mince with a mix of lentils and chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version that mimics the texture of meat.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce to introduce a spicy kick that complements the rich flavors.
• Richer Mashed Potatoes: Use cream instead of milk when mashing the potatoes for a richer, creamier texture that feels more indulgent.
• Add More Veggies: Throw in a cup of frozen peas or chopped bell peppers in the last hour of cooking for extra color and nutrition.

What To Serve With Mince and Tatties

Serve your hearty Mince and Tatties with vibrant sides like steamed green beans, buttered peas, roasted Brussels sprouts, glazed carrots, or sautéed spinach. Or you can try a fresh garden salad and crusty bread for lighter options.

How To Store Mince and Tatties

In The Fridge:

Place cooled Mince and Tatties in an airtight container. I suggest storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the lid is secure to keep flavors fresh and contamination out.

In The Freezer:

Mince and Tatties can be frozen for up to 3 months. I prefer using freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to label them with the date so you remember when you stored them.

How To Reheat Mince and Tatties

Reheat your Mince and Tatties by placing them in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until hot, which should take about 10 minutes. Or, you can microwave them for about 3-4 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Keema Curry
• Slow Cooker Chicken Bhuna
• Slow Cooker Chicken And Chorizo Paella