Aims To identify simple insulin regimens for people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus that can be accepted and implemented earlier in primary and specialist care, taking into consideration each individual's needs and capabilities. Methods Using randomized clinical trials identified by a search of the PubMed database, as well as systematic reviews, meta‐analyses and proof‐of‐concept studies, this review addresses topics of interest related to the progressive intensification of a basal insulin regimen to a basal‐plus regimen (one basal insulin injection plus stepwise addition of one to three preprandial short‐acting insulin injections/day) vs a basal‐bolus regimen (basal insulin plus three short‐acting insulin injections per day) in people with Type 2 diabetes. The review explores approaches that can be used to define the meal for first prandial injection with basal‐plus regimens, differences among insulin titration algorithms, and the importance of self‐motivation and autonomy in achieving optimum glycaemic control. Results A basal‐plus regimen can provide glycaemic control equivalent to that obtained with a full basal‐bolus regimen, with fewer injections of prandial insulin. The first critical step is to optimize basal insulin dosing to reach a fasting glucose concentration of ~6.7 mmol/l; this allows ~40% of patients with baseline HbA1c >75 mmol/mol (9%) to be controlled with only one basal insulin injection per day. Conclusions Compared with a basal‐bolus regimen, a basal‐plus insulin regimen is as effective but more practical, and has the best chance of acceptance and success in the real world. What's new? Insulin initiation and intensification in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus are often delayed, increasing the risk of complications. Simplified regimens may lead to greater acceptance and earlier implementation of insulin therapy. This evidence‐based review shows that a basal‐plus insulin regimen can provide glycaemic control equivalent to that obtained with a full basal‐bolus regimen, with fewer injections of prandial insulin. A basal‐plus insulin regimen may therefore have a better chance of acceptance and success in the real world than a full basal‐bolus regimen through improved glycaemic control and consequent reduction in the risk of complications of diabetes.