Classic Gluten-Free Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
This classic gluten-free spaghetti bolognese is simple and quick to make. Succulent beef with a tangy tomato sauce. It’s rich, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
I am thrilled to share my take on a classic Italian dish that’s sure to make your taste buds dance.
Get ready for a scrumptious gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese that’s so good, you won’t believe it’s coeliac-friendly!
As someone who’s been living the gluten-free life for years, I know how tricky it can be to find tasty alternatives to our favourite dishes. But fear not! This recipe is a game-changer.
Whether you’re a seasoned coeliac or just starting your gluten-free journey, this spaghetti Bolognese is perfect for you.
It’s easy to make and uses ingredients you can find in any supermarket. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends and family – they won’t even notice it’s gluten-free!
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking. Trust me, this gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese is about to become your new favourite comfort food.
Table of Contents
What you’ll love about this recipe
- Deliciously gluten-free spaghetti that won’t leave you feeling left out
- A rich, meaty sauce that’s packed with flavour
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- A versatile recipe that can be customised to your taste
- A comforting Italian classic that’s sure to become a family favourite
Ingredients
Pasta: You’ll need 60g of gluten-free spaghetti per person. Make sure to choose a high-quality brand that holds its shape well when cooked. There are so many brilliant options available these days!
Meat: For the star of our Bolognese, we’ll use 500g of grass-fed minced beef. This gives the sauce its hearty, meaty texture and rich flavour.
Vegetables: We’ll need 1 finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 finely diced carrots. These veggies add depth and sweetness to our sauce.
Tomatoes: You’ll want 400g of tinned chopped tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of tomato puree. These form the base of our sauce, giving it that classic rich, tomatoey flavour.
Herbs and seasoning: We’ll use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. These simple seasonings really bring out the flavours in our Bolognese.
Oil: You’ll need 2 tablespoons of olive oil for cooking. This helps to sauté our veggies and brown our meat, adding extra flavour to the dish.
Stock: 300ml of gluten-free beef stock will give our sauce extra depth and richness. Always double-check that your stock is certified gluten-free!
Instructions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This creates a lovely flavour base for our sauce.
Next, add the minced beef to the pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s browned all over. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Now it’s time to add the tinned tomatoes, tomato puree, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those lovely flavours. Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This allows all the flavours to meld together and the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the sauce is simmering, cook your gluten-free spaghetti according to the package instructions. Remember, different brands may have slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on it!
Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, drain it well. Serve the spaghetti on plates and top with generous spoonfuls of the Bolognese sauce. And there you have it – a delicious gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese!
What to serve with gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese
A crisp, fresh salad makes a perfect accompaniment to this hearty dish. Try a simple green salad with mixed leaves, cucumber, and tomatoes, dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Garlic bread is a classic side for spaghetti Bolognese. Look for gluten-free garlic bread in shops, or make your own using gluten-free bread, garlic butter, and a sprinkle of herbs.
For a bit of added veg, consider serving some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side. They add a nice pop of colour and extra nutrients to your meal.
And of course, no Italian-inspired meal is complete without a sprinkle of cheese! Top your Bolognese with some freshly grated Parmesan or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
Gluten-Free Spaghetti Bolognese recipe
Are you ready to try my gluten-free gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese recipe? Then let’s get started:
Classic Gluten-Free Spaghetti Bolognese
Equipment
- Frying pan
- Saucepan
- Colander
- Slotted Spatula
- Chopping Board
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
- 500 g Grass-fed minced beef
- 1 Medium onion
- 2 Carotts finely chopped
- 400 g Can of tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Tomato puree
- 1 tsp Oregon
- 300 ml Gluten-free beef stock
- Pinch salt & pepper
- 60 g Gluten-free spaghetti per person (Tesco Free From gluten-fee spaghetti)
- Parmesan cheese to serve
Instructions
- Fry the minced beef in a large frying pan with a little oil until browned. Takes around 5-7 minutes.
- Finely chop an onion and fry with mince for 5 minutes.
- Add the can of tomatoes, puree, stock, herbs, Salt & pepper. Continue to fry for about 10 minutes.
- While the bolognese is cooking put the spaghetti into a saucepan of boiling water and cook for around 10 minutes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked drain it through the colander and put it into a serving bowl, add the bolognese and serve.
Nutrition
If you enjoyed my gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese recipe, then check out these 👇
- Gluten-Free Lasagne (Beef)
- Gluten-Free Beef Casserole Recipe (Slow Cooked)
- Gluten-Free Chilli (Beef Con Carne)
- Gluten-Free Beef Curry
- Gluten-Free Cottage Pie
- Gluten-Free Stuffed Peppers
Gluten-Free spaghetti Bolognese tips:
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of my gluten-free spaghetti bolognese recipe:
Choose Quality Gluten-Free Pasta
Use a good gluten-free spaghetti made from rice, corn, quinoa, or a blend of gluten-free flours. Cooking times vary by brand, so follow the package instructions carefully to avoid overcooking or mushiness.
Build a Flavourful Base
Start by gently sautéing onions, garlic, celery, and carrots (a soffrito) to add fibre, antioxidants, and depth of flavour to the sauce.
Use Good Quality Mince
Opt for grass-fed or good-quality beef mince with around 5-10% fat for flavour and texture. For a lighter option, turkey mince or vegetarian alternatives like Quorn mince work well too.
Add Extra Vegetables
Incorporate extra veggies such as courgette, mushrooms, or butternut squash to boost nutrition and add texture without overpowering the classic taste.
Simmer Slowly
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for at least 45 minutes to an hour. This slow cooking intensifies flavours and thickens the sauce beautifully.
Use Gluten-Free Stock and Wine
Check that any stock cubes or pots are gluten-free. Red wine is generally gluten-free and adds richness to the sauce.
Season Well
Use dried herbs like basil and oregano, plus fresh basil leaves if available. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve Creatively
Traditional gluten-free spaghetti is a great choice, but you can also try vegetable-based spaghetti like zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Make Ahead and Freeze
Gluten-free Bolognese freezes well. Make a large batch, portion it out, and freeze for up to 3 months for easy meals later.
Avoid Cross-Contamination
Use separate utensils and cooking surfaces if your kitchen isn’t fully gluten-free to keep the dish safe for coeliacs or those with gluten intolerance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spaghetti Bolognese naturally gluten-free?
The traditional Bolognese sauce is naturally gluten-free, but you must use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all other ingredients (like stock or seasoning) are gluten-free to keep the dish safe.
What gluten-free pasta works best for spaghetti Bolognese?
Gluten-free spaghetti made from rice, corn, quinoa, or blends of gluten-free flours work well. Follow package instructions closely as cooking times vary and gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked.
How do I cook gluten-free pasta without it sticking?
Add a little olive oil to the boiling water, stir frequently during cooking, and rinse briefly with cold water after draining to prevent sticking.
Can I use regular stock or wine in gluten-free Bolognese?
Only if they are certified gluten-free. Many stock cubes and some wines are gluten-free, but always check packaging to avoid hidden gluten.
How long should I simmer the Bolognese sauce?
Simmer gently for at least 45 minutes to an hour to develop rich flavour and thicken the sauce.
Can I add extra vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, adding carrots, celery, courgette, or mushrooms boosts nutrition and flavour without compromising the classic taste.
Is gluten-free Bolognese suitable for meal prep and freezing?
Yes, it freezes well and is ideal for batch cooking and reheating later.
How do I avoid cross-contamination when making gluten-free spaghetti Bolognese?
Use separate utensils, pots, and surfaces dedicated to gluten-free cooking. Clean thoroughly before cooking and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use vegetarian or vegan mince in gluten-free Bolognese?
Yes, plant-based mince alternatives can be used to make a vegetarian or vegan gluten-free Bolognese.
Should I trust the cooking time on gluten-free pasta packages?
It’s best to start checking the pasta a couple of minutes before the recommended time to avoid overcooking, as gluten-free pasta can become gummy quickly.
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Becky Terrell ✍️
Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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This is on regular rotation in our house now—so easy and the sauce is really rich and hearty.