Welcome to our blog post on how to make delicious gluten-free spaghetti sauce at home. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or simply want to have a meal ready for those busy weekend evenings, this sauce is perfect for you. In this article, we'll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to storing the finished product.
What is gluten-free spaghetti sauce?
Gluten-free spaghetti sauce is a meal-prep staple that is designed for individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. It's made without the grain containing gliadin, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats, which can trigger an immune response in people with gluten sensitivities.
Why make your own gluten-free spaghetti sauce?
Making your own gluten-free spaghetti sauce has several advantages. Firstly, it allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that they are free from potentially harmful ingredients. Secondly, it's a cost-effective choice when compared to store-bought sauces, as you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in your pantry for future use. Finally, homemade spaghetti sauce can be tailored to your specific taste preferences, making it a fun and engaging activity for dinner prep.
How to make gluten-free spaghetti sauce
Now that you know why make your own gluten-free spaghetti sauce, let's dive into the recipe. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the best gluten-free spaghetti sauce from scratch:
Step 1: Gather your ingredients
To make the sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- pinch (1/8 teaspoon or less) red pepper flakes
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 Tablespoons minced fresh basil
- 1 (15 oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15兹) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6兹) can tomato paste
- 1 cup water (can use beef broth)
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar or 1-2 teaspoon gluten-free Worcestershire sauce (like Lea & Perrins)
- 1–2 Tablespoons additional fresh basil, to finish
Step 2: Prepare the ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gathering all your ingredients. While the oven is heating up, you can begin preparing the sauce.
A. Soften the onion
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly软化, about 4-5 minutes.
B. Cook the meat
Add the ground beef and sausage to the pot and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook the meat until it is no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Drain all but about 1-2 tablespoons of fat from the pot.
C. Add the garlic and seasonings
Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of fresh basil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the herbs are fragrant.
D. Combine the tomatoes and water
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Then, add the water and stir to combine until there are no large clumps of tomato paste.
Step 3: Simmer the sauce
Once the mixture is combined, bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low or low and simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes, stirring every few minutes to avoid burning.
Step 4: Finish the sauce
After simmering the sauce for 30 minutes, add the balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce, then stir in the remaining 1-2 tablespoons of fresh basil. Serve the sauce warm, garnished with basil and a sprinkle of salt.
How to store and use your homemade gluten-free spaghetti sauce
After making your gluten-free spaghetti sauce, the next step is to learn how to store and use it. Here's what you need to know:
Step 1: Store the sauce
Once the sauce is complete, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze the sauce in small containers or bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to save at least 1 inch of space at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
Step 2: Use the sauce
Homemade gluten-free spaghetti sauce is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Some popular ways to use it include:
- On pasta – serve with gluten-free spaghetti, penne, fettuccini, linguini, etc.
- Over spaghetti squash
- As a sauce for chicken pasta
- With meatball subs
##By following this recipe, you'll have delicious, homemade gluten-free spaghetti sauce ready in no time. Whether you're a casual cook or a pro at meal prep, making your own spaghetti sauce is a quick and easy way to enjoy a tasty meal that is also safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Don't forget to share your creations with friends and family and leave a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions for future recipes.
Happy Cooking,
Erin
