Looking for easy dinner ideas that won’t take hours or drain your wallet? This Savory is quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for weeknights. A smart way to save money on food while still eating something delicious.
How to do it
This Savory is one of the best budget meals you can make at home. Simple, fast, and made with ingredients you already have — ideal for beginners or anyone planning affordable family dinners. Let’s cook smarter, not harder.
Ingredients
For the polenta:
- 5 cups cold water
- 1 cup instant maize meal (pre-cooked polenta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or margarine
- 1 beef stock cube
For the meat sauce:
- 300g minced beef
- 3 tablespoons oil or olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup tomato passata or ready-made tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 beef stock cube
- Dried oregano, chopped parsley, black pepper or chilli – to taste
- Salt, if needed
To finish:
- Slices of mozzarella (or your preferred melting cheese)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
How to Make It
Prepare the polenta:
In a pot over medium heat, combine the cold water, maize meal, olive oil (or margarine), and beef stock cube. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens — this takes about 10 minutes. Once ready, remove from the heat and set aside.
Make the meat sauce:
In a large frying pan, heat the oil and sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the minced beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Then add the chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and stock cube. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Season with herbs, pepper, and salt to taste.
Assemble the dish:
Spread the warm polenta evenly in a baking dish. Top with slices of mozzarella and then pour the hot meat sauce over it. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
Bake:
Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Serve warm and enjoy a comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Add a side salad or sautéed veggies to round out your meal!
