A few years ago, my mom and I started canning tomatoes to enjoy throughout the Winter. With 15 quarts of tomatoes in my basement (the first year), I quickly hunted for recipes to make with tomatoes. At the time, we ate spaghetti a few times a month, and I knew there was a healthier way than the store-bought, sugar-filled sauces we typically ate. After much research, testing, and tasting, I finally nailed my gluten-free spaghetti sauce.
Is Spaghetti Sauce Gluten-Free?
Spaghetti sauce, in general, shouldn’t contain gluten. However, these days, with preservatives and other ingredients, it isn’t always easy to find a gluten-free spaghetti sauce. Many store-bought sauces may have additives, thickeners, or flavorings that contain gluten, making it challenging for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to find a quick and reliable option. This is why making your own gluten-free spaghetti sauce at home will be your new favorite way. It lets you control the ingredients and ensure the sauce is entirely gluten-free and safe to eat.
In this recipe, we use quarts of canned tomatoes as the base, knowing there was nothing added to the tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are not an option for everyone, but you can also opt for pre-canned tomatoes from the store. When selecting canned tomatoes, it is important to check the labels to ensure they do not contain added preservatives or ingredients that might include gluten. This is key! Many canned fruits and vegetables have added flavor or preservatives that might contain gluten. You can ensure a safer and more delicious end product by choosing high-quality, gluten-free canned tomatoes.
Vegan Spaghetti Sauce
This recipe can be made as a vegan spaghetti sauce or with meat, offering various options for different dietary needs. If you prefer a vegan version, leave out the meat and focus on keeping it simple. The recipe has no other animal products, making this an easy option for vegan spaghetti sauce.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a heartier sauce, ground turkey is an excellent choice that complements the tomato base well. However, the ground turkey can be swapped out for meat of your choice, such as ground beef, chicken, or even sausage, depending on your taste preferences.
The Secret Ingredient
Baking soda is the secret to perfecting homemade spaghetti sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully. However, it’s crucial not to overdo it. Adding too much baking soda can produce an overly sweet sauce, which might overpower the other flavors.
On the flip side, leaving it out entirely can lead to a sauce that’s too acidic, which will not make it very tasty. This delicate balance makes baking soda the secret but key ingredient in achieving that perfect taste.
Make sure you use ONLY 1/8 teaspoon. This small amount is enough to neutralize the acidity without making the sauce too sweet, giving you a deliciously balanced sauce every time.
Get Creative
This recipe’s flexibility makes it a favorite among many busy moms. Whether catering to dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought options, this homemade gluten-free spaghetti sauce can be easily adjusted to your needs.
Experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings can help you create a sauce that is not only gluten-free but also bursting with flavor. By making your own sauce, you can enjoy the comfort of knowing exactly what goes into your meal, ensuring it is both nutritious and delicious.
Grab the ingredients and your favorite gluten-free pasta, and start your spaghetti sauce. Trust me when I say it will make your house smell amazing.
Gluten-Free Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 Quarts Canned Tomatoes Sliced in Quarters
- 2 TBSP Basil
- 2 TBSP Oregano
- 3 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 lb Ground Turkey (Optional)
- 1/8 TSP Baking Soda
Instructions
- Add tomatoes, basil, oregano, and garlic to a stock pot or large saucepan.
- Cook on low heat for 2.5 hours or until all tomatoes are no longer whole.
- Brown ground turkey, drain the grease, and add to the sauce.
- Add 1/8th tsp baking soda to cut acidity.
- Let simmer for 30 more minutes.
- Serve with your favorite gluten-free noodles.
Spaghetti & Your Gluten-Free Meal Plan
A gluten-free meal plan is key for staying on track with your gluten-free lifestyle. By planning your meals ahead of time, you will know that you always have safe, gluten-free options available, reducing the stress of quickly trying to throw a meal together.
One great tip is to keep easy freezer meals on hand, like spaghetti sauce, for those days when your schedule changes unexpectedly or you need a quick, hassle-free dinner. You can prepare this recipe ahead of time and freeze it, making it a perfect go-to meal when you’re pressed for time or need to adapt your meal plan on the fly.
To dive deeper into the world of gluten-free meal planning, be sure to check out our guide, Going Gluten-Free: Building Your Meal Plan. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about successfully planning and prepping meals for your gluten-free diet. Inside, you’ll find tips, recipes, and strategies to help you confidently navigate your new lifestyle. Whether you’re just starting your gluten-free journey or looking to refine your meal-planning skills, our eBook is an invaluable resource that will help you stay organized and committed to your new gluten-free lifestyle.
ABOUT ME
Hey There, I’m Kristin, a gluten-free nutrition coach helping gluten-free families adjust to their new lifestyle.
