Gluten Free Mac and Cheese

Hey there, Emma here from tastydwell.com! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love. And let me tell you, this gluten free mac and cheese recipe? It’s a lifesaver! Forget those boxed versions; we’re making a rich, creamy, and totally satisfying mac and cheese from scratch, and it just happens to be gluten-free. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and a guaranteed hit with kids (and adults!).

I started making this dish after my kids asked for gluten-free options and quickly realized this version was tastier than the traditional one! Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become your go-to comfort food.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Mac and Cheese:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the cheese and add-ins to your liking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this heavenly gluten free mac and cheese:

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• 1 pound dried gluten free pasta
• ¼ cup butter
• 4 tablespoons gluten free all purpose flour
• 2 ½ cups milk
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ teaspoon salt or more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Optional: 1/3 cup grated parmesan for a richer/sharper flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Make the Roux: Meanwhile, melt the butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
3. Create the Cheese Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk, then add in the salt, pepper, garlic and onion powders and simmer over low heat until the milk starts to thicken, whisking regularly.
4. Add the Cheese: Remove from the heat and whisk in the cheeses (cheddar and mozzarella, as well as optional parmesan) until melted. I love this particular combination of cheeses for a creamy and sharp flavor that’s not too sharp, but you can easily customize depending on your preference.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust as desired.
6. Combine & Serve: Combine the sauce with the pasta and stir to combine.
7. Optional Baking: If you want a “baked” mac and cheese, transfer to a baking dish, top with about 1/3 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of parmesan and broil for 3-5 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
8. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish or bowls (optional)

Tips & Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few tips and variations to make this recipe your own:

• Cheese Swap: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack can add fantastic flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Add-Ins Galore: Stir in cooked bacon bits (if you’re not keeping it strictly vegetarian), chopped ham, cooked broccoli, or even some roasted tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
• Avoid: Don’t overcook the pasta! It will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This gluten free mac and cheese is delicious on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables (like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts)
• A side of crusty gluten-free bread

For a beautiful presentation, you can bake it in individual ramekins or serve it straight from the pot for a cozy, comforting meal.

Nutrition Facts

(Nutritional information can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Use a recipe analyzer for an estimate.)

Conclusion

There you have it! A super simple, unbelievably delicious gluten free mac and cheese recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to create some cheesy, gluten-free magic. Trust me, this recipe is a must-try! For more fantastic recipes like this check out my other recipes on bestdisheasy.com and feel free to share and save this recipe for later

FAQ

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this gluten free mac and cheese! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

How can I make it ahead?

You can definitely make this gluten free mac and cheese ahead of time! Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta. Combine them, but don’t bake it. Store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and parmesan, and bake until bubbly and golden.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to substitute the cheddar and mozzarella with your favorite cheeses, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Colby Jack. Just make sure to adjust the quantities or the result will vary!

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can absolutely create a dairy-free version of this recipe! Use dairy-free alternatives for butter and milk (such as oat milk or almond milk). Choose a dairy-free cheese that melts well, such as a commercially available dairy-free cheddar or mozzarella.

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