Batch cooking
Freezer-friendly bolognese base
A rich, high-protein tomato and beef mince base to freeze in portions and turn into a quick pasta bolognese on busy days.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 45 min
- Total
- 60 min
- Portions
- 6
- Easy
- Pregnancy
- Second trimester
- Third trimester
- Postnatal recovery
- High-protein
- Iron-containing
- Freezer-friendly
- Gluten-free

Make this recipe
Swap an ingredient
Only swaps that keep this recipe pregnancy-safe are offered. Allergen information below updates when you choose one.
Ingredients
For 6 portions. Tick items as you go — nothing is changed for anyone else.
This recipe contains foods that can contribute to a varied and balanced diet during pregnancy.
Method
- Step 1. Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the onion, carrot and celery for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Step 2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 3. Add the mince and cook, breaking it up, until browned all over with no pink meat remaining.
- Step 4. Stir in the tomatoes, tomato purée, stock and oregano.
- Step 5. Simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Step 6. Check the mince is piping hot and fully cooked throughout.
- Step 7. Season to taste, then cool quickly and divide into freezer-safe containers.
- Step 8. Freeze flat in portions; defrost fully and reheat until piping hot before serving with pasta.
Allergens for your selection
- Contains: Celery
Ingredient brands and substitutions can change allergen content. Always check the labels on the products you buy.