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Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

10 servings
Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese
Pasta & Grains

Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

Prep30 min
Cook40 min
Total70 min
Serves4
Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese
Tender spaghetti in rich bolognese sauce

As a home cook who's had to navigate gluten-free cooking, I've learned that it's all about smart swaps and good technique. My Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese is a staple in our household, and I'm excited to share it with you. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I remember the first time I made this dish, I was a bit skeptical about how the gluten-free spaghetti would hold up. But with the right technique and ingredients, it turned out perfectly. The key is to use a high-quality gluten-free spaghetti that's made from a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and a binder like xanthan or psyllium.

This recipe is also very versatile, you can make it with ground beef, pork, or a combination of the two. You can also add other ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives to suit your taste. The most important thing is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, and to cook the sauce slowly over low heat to develop the rich and deep flavor.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making a delicious Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese that's perfect for anyone with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal special equipment.

So, let's get started and make a delicious Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese that will become a staple in your household. With its rich and meaty sauce, tender spaghetti, and flavorful ingredients, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal special equipment
  • The Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese is a versatile dish that can be made with different types of meat and ingredients
  • The slow cooking of the sauce develops a deep and rich flavor that's perfect for coating the spaghetti
  • The gluten-free spaghetti is tender and flavorful, making it perfect for anyone with gluten intolerance or sensitivity
  • The recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion
  • The dish is filling and satisfying, making it perfect for a cold winter night

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese is in the layering of flavors and the slow cooking of the sauce. By using a combination of ground beef and pork, you get a rich and meaty flavor that's balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the onions and carrots.

The gluten-free spaghetti is also an important component of this dish. By using a high-quality gluten-free spaghetti that's made from a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and a binder like xanthan or psyllium, you get a tender and flavorful pasta that holds up well to the rich and meaty sauce.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the cooking technique. By cooking the sauce slowly over low heat, you develop a deep and rich flavor that's perfect for coating the spaghetti. The slow cooking also helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to chew.

Finally, the resting time is also important in this recipe. By letting the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes before serving, you allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken, making it perfect for coating the spaghetti.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including ground beef, pork, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You'll also need a high-quality gluten-free spaghetti that's made from a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and a binder like xanthan or psyllium.

When shopping for ingredients, make sure to choose fresh and high-quality produce, and opt for lean ground beef and pork to make the dish healthier. You can also customize the recipe to your taste by adding other ingredients such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beefChoose lean ground beef to make the dish healthier, and make sure to handle it safely to avoid cross-contamination
  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground porkYou can also use Italian sausage or other types of pork, but make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly
  • 1 large onion, finely choppedUse a sweet onion such as Vidalia or Maui, and make sure to chop it finely to release its natural sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor, and make sure to mince it finely to release its natural oils
  • 2 medium carrots, finely choppedUse fresh carrots and chop them finely to release their natural sweetness
  • 2 stalks celery, finely choppedUse fresh celery and chop it finely to release its natural flavor
  • 1 (28 oz/794g) can whole tomatoesChoose high-quality canned tomatoes that are low in sodium and have no added preservatives
  • 2 tbsp tomato pasteUse high-quality tomato paste that is made from fresh tomatoes and has no added preservatives
  • 1 tsp dried basilUse fresh or dried basil, and make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste
  • 1 tsp dried oreganoUse fresh or dried oregano, and make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste
  • 1/2 tsp saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor, and make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepperUse fresh black pepper for the best flavor, and make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oilUse high-quality olive oil that is low in acidity and has a mild flavor
Ingredients for Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenLarge skilletColanderWooden spoonInstant-read thermometerMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

  1. 1
    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on an instant-read thermometer
  2. 2
    Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes
  3. 3
    Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet, and cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks
  4. 4
    Add the tomato paste to the skillet, and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it is fragrant
  5. 5
    Add the canned tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and stir to combine
  6. 6
    Bring the sauce to a simmer, and cook for 20-30 minutes, until it has thickened and the flavors have melded together
  7. 7
    While the sauce is cooking, cook the gluten-free spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water, until it is al dente
  8. 8
    Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, and then drain the spaghetti
  9. 9
    Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, and toss to combine, adding some of the reserved pasta cooking water if the sauce seems too thick
  10. 10
    Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together
  11. 11
    Serve the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley

Expert Tips

  • Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh vegetables and lean ground meat, to make the dish healthier and more flavorful
  • Cook the sauce slowly over low heat, to develop a deep and rich flavor
  • Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together
  • Use gluten-free spaghetti that is made from a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and a binder like xanthan or psyllium, to make the dish gluten-free
  • Customize the recipe to your taste, by adding other ingredients such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives
  • Make the recipe ahead of time, and refrigerate or freeze it for later use
  • Use an instant-read thermometer, to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature
  • Don't overcook the spaghetti, as it can become mushy and unappetizing

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish
  • Not cooking the sauce slowly over low heat, which can result in a sauce that is too thin or too thick
  • Not letting the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes before serving, which can result in a sauce that is not fully flavored
  • Using gluten-containing ingredients, which can make the dish unsuitable for people with gluten intolerance or sensitivity
  • Overcooking the spaghetti, which can make it mushy and unappetizing
  • Not reserving pasta cooking water, which can result in a sauce that is too thick

Variations and Substitutions

  • Adding other ingredients, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives, to customize the recipe to your taste
  • Using different types of meat, such as ground turkey or ground lamb, to change the flavor of the dish
  • Using different types of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, to change the flavor and texture of the sauce
  • Adding a splash of red wine, to add depth and complexity to the sauce
  • Using gluten-free pasta that is made from a different type of flour, such as quinoa or corn flour
  • Adding some heat, by using red pepper flakes or hot sauce, to make the dish spicier
  • Using fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, to add freshness and flavor to the dish

What to Serve With Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

Serve the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread, or a green salad, to make it a complete meal.

Some other options for serving this dish include serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or serving it with a side of sautéed spinach or kale.

Garlic breadGreen saladRoasted vegetablesSautéed spinach or kaleGrilled chicken or shrimpSauteed mushrooms

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese can be made ahead of time, and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, let the sauce cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat until it's hot and bubbly.

When reheating the sauce, make sure to stir it occasionally, to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You can also add a splash of water or broth, to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.

It's also important to note that the gluten-free spaghetti can become mushy if it's overcooked, so it's best to cook it just before serving. You can also cook the spaghetti ahead of time, and then reheat it by tossing it with a little bit of olive oil and some of the reserved pasta cooking water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of gluten-free spaghetti should I use?

Look for a high-quality gluten-free spaghetti that is made from a blend of rice flour, tapioca starch, and a binder like xanthan or psyllium. This type of pasta will hold up well to the rich and meaty sauce, and will have a similar texture to traditional spaghetti

Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of meat, such as ground turkey or ground lamb, to change the flavor of the dish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, and to cook the meat until it's fully browned and cooked through

How long can I store the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese in the refrigerator?

The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the cooked spaghetti can be stored for up to 5 days. Just make sure to let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating, and to reheat it over low heat until it's hot and bubbly

Can I freeze the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months, and the cooked spaghetti for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let the sauce cool to room temperature before freezing, and to reheat it over low heat until it's hot and bubbly

What's the best way to reheat the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese?

The best way to reheat the sauce is over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and bubbly. You can also add a splash of water or broth, to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick. For the cooked spaghetti, you can reheat it by tossing it with a little bit of olive oil and some of the reserved pasta cooking water

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, and to cook the spaghetti just before serving

What's the best way to serve the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese?

The best way to serve the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese is hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread, or a green salad, to make it a complete meal

Can I customize this recipe to my taste?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to your taste by adding other ingredients, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. You can also use different types of meat, or different types of tomatoes, to change the flavor of the dish

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese

Discover my dependable gluten-free Spaghetti Bolognese recipe, made from scratch in a real home kitchen with smart swaps and good technique

Prep30 min
Cook40 min
Total70 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 1 (28 oz/794g) can whole tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on an instant-read thermometer
  2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes
  3. Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet, and cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks
  4. Add the tomato paste to the skillet, and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it is fragrant
  5. Add the canned tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet, and stir to combine
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and cook for 20-30 minutes, until it has thickened and the flavors have melded together
  7. While the sauce is cooking, cook the gluten-free spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water, until it is al dente
  8. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, and then drain the spaghetti
  9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, and toss to combine, adding some of the reserved pasta cooking water if the sauce seems too thick
  10. Let the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together
  11. Serve the Gluten Free Spaghetti Bolognese hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

550Calories
35gProtein
60gCarbs
20gFat