Homemade Freezer Spaghetti Sauce: A Time-Saving Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a homemade spaghetti sauce, but the time and effort it takes to make it from scratch can be a major deterrent. However, there’s a solution to this problem: freezer spaghetti sauce. By making a large batch of sauce and freezing it in smaller portions, you can have a delicious homemade sauce at the ready whenever you need it. Not only does this save time, but it also ensures that you always have a delicious, healthy meal option available. Here’s how to make your very own homemade freezer spaghetti sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Once the ground beef is fully cooked, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. If using, pour in the red wine and stir to combine. Lastly, add the sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer you let the sauce simmer, the better the flavors will meld.
6. Once the sauce has finished simmering, let it cool slightly before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Be sure to leave some room at the top of the containers for expansion as the sauce freezes.
7. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to use the sauce, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and serve it over your favorite pasta for a quick and delicious meal.
Homemade freezer spaghetti sauce is a game-changer for busy households. By taking the time to make a large batch of sauce and freezing it for future use, you’ll always have a homemade meal option at your fingertips. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the simplicity and convenience of having delicious, homemade spaghetti sauce ready to go whenever you need it.