If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that you can make ahead and freeze for later, then this freezer spaghetti sauce is the perfect solution. This versatile sauce can be used as a base for spaghetti, lasagna, or any other pasta dish, making it a great staple to have on hand. Plus, it’s packed with fresh ingredients and flavors that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made in large batches and frozen in individual portions, so you can easily grab a container from the freezer whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or herbs that you have lying around in your fridge.
To make this freezer spaghetti sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, grated
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based protein)
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the ground beef to the empty space. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in the chopped basil and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Let the sauce cool completely before dividing it into individual portions and freezing in airtight containers.
When you’re ready to use the sauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave, then heat it in a saucepan or microwave until heated through.
This freezer spaghetti sauce recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also a great way to save time and reduce food waste. Try making a batch of this sauce and see how it can transform your weeknight dinners.