There’s nothing quite like a homemade spaghetti sauce, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make a big batch and freeze it for later. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy dinner option, or just want to have a delicious, homemade sauce ready to go whenever a craving strikes, make-ahead spaghetti sauce is a game-changer. Not only will it save you time on busy weeknights, but it also allows you to enjoy the taste of homemade sauce without all the effort.
Below is a delicious make-ahead spaghetti sauce recipe that’s perfect for your freezer. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can use it for traditional spaghetti, lasagna, or any other pasta dish that calls for a great marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
– 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
4. After simmering, remove the bay leaves and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Be sure to 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 defrost it in the refrigerator overnight or heat it from frozen on the stovetop. This make-ahead spaghetti sauce is the perfect meal prep solution for busy weeknights, and it’s sure to become a staple in your freezer. Plus, you can feel good knowing that you’re serving your family a delicious, homemade sauce made with fresh, quality ingredients. So go ahead and make a big batch of this sauce and enjoy the convenience of having a homemade meal at your fingertips whenever you need it.