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Best-Ever Gluten-Free Macaroni Cheese Recipe

This gluten-free macaroni cheese recipe is a comforting delight that brings all the nostalgia of the classic dish without the gluten!

Made with gluten-free pasta, this creamy and cheesy concoction is perfect for anyone who needs to avoid gluten but doesn’t want to miss out on that rich, indulgent flavour.

The secret lies in a velvety cheese sauce, often crafted from a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, which coats each piece of pasta beautifully.

You can easily jazz it up with a sprinkle of paprika or some crispy bacon bits for added texture and taste.

Ready in just about 30 minutes, gluten-free mac and cheese is a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family, making it a staple in any kitchen!

What you’ll love about this recipe

Versatility and Customization
Gluten-free mac and cheese is incredibly adaptable. You can easily personalize the recipe by choosing different types of gluten-free pasta, experimenting with various cheese combinations, and adding unique spices to suit your taste preferences.

Allergy-Friendly Option
This dish is not just gluten-free, but often nut-free and egg-free as well. It provides a safe and delicious meal option for people with multiple dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy a classic comfort food.

Cost-Effective and Homemade
Preparing gluten-free mac and cheese at home is more economical than buying pre-packaged boxed versions. Homemade recipes are typically creamier, and fresher, and allow you to control the ingredients and quality.

Quick and Easy Preparation
Most gluten-free mac and cheese recipes are straightforward and can be prepared in under 45 minutes. Whether you prefer a stovetop version or a baked casserole, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal cooking skills.

Rich and Creamy Texture
Despite being gluten-free, these recipes maintain the classic mac and cheese’s indulgent, cheesy appeal. By using techniques like evaporated milk, multiple cheese types, and careful cooking methods, you can achieve a luxuriously creamy dish that rivals traditional versions.

Ingredients

• 360g gluten-free macaroni pasta
• 60g salted butter
• 60g plain gluten-free flour
• 600ml semi-skimmed milk
• 120g full-fat cream cheese
• 220g grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 100 g gluten-free breadcrumbs
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta
In a large pot boil the gluten-free macaroni in water for 8-10 minutes until it becomes al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as gluten-free pasta can become soggy quickly.

Make the Cheese Sauce Base
In a saucepan, combine the gluten-free flour and butter. Over medium heat slowly stir continuously to create a roux.

Create the Sauce
Gradually add milk to the pan, continuing to stir to prevent lumps. If lumps form, keep stirring until the sauce smooths out.

Add Flavour
Incorporate cream cheese, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Cheese Integration
Mix in half of the grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly to create a rich, cheesy sauce.

Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

Bake and Crisp
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and gluten-free breadcrumbs on top.

Final Touch
Grill for approximately 10 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Pro Tip: For the best texture, use a high-quality gluten-free pasta like Barilla and be careful not to overcook.

What to serve with gluten-free macaroni and cheese

Protein Pairings
When serving gluten-free mac and cheese as a side dish consider adding a protein to make the meal more substantial. Grilled chicken offers a lean option, while crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. Pulled pork or baked ham can transform the dish into a hearty dinner that satisfies even the biggest appetites.

Fresh Side Salads
A crisp salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, creamy mac and cheese. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the dish’s heaviness. Coleslaw adds a tangy crunch, while an arugula salad with lemon dressing brings a bright, zesty element to the plate.

Vegetable Companions
Roasted vegetables complement the mac and cheese beautifully. Broccoli roasted with a touch of olive oil and garlic creates a delicious side. Sautéed spinach adds nutrition, while roasted Brussels sprouts bring a slightly charred, nutty flavour that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy pasta.

Lighter Options
For those seeking a lighter meal, consider steamed vegetables like cauliflower or a fresh herb garnish. Sliced tomatoes can add a burst of freshness, while quick pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.

Comfort Food Combinations
If you’re in the mood for ultimate comfort food, pair the mac and cheese with Southern-style BBQ or crispy fried chicken. Meatballs or breaded fish fillets can also create a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s sure to please.

Pro tip: The key is to choose sides that offer a fresh, light contrast to the rich and creamy mac and cheese, creating a balanced and delicious dining experience.

Gluten-Free Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Are you ready to try my gluten-free mac and cheese recipe? Then let’s get started:

If you enjoyed my gluten-free mac and cheese recipe, check out these 👇

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• Gluten-free breaded chicken goujons
• Gluten-free roast chicken

Gluten-Free Macaroni And Cheese Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the most out of my gluten-free mac and cheese recipe:

Avoid cross-contamination

If you’re preparing gluten-free mac and cheese in a kitchen that is not entirely gluten-free, take precautions to avoid cross-contamination.

Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cooking surfaces to prevent gluten from coming into contact with the ingredients.

When possible, do not use wooden utensils, cutting boards, and rolling pins that are used with gluten.

Pasta 

Make sure to choose a high-quality gluten-free pasta; there are plenty of options made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas that hold up beautifully when cooked.

Pasta Cooking Tips

Gluten-free pasta is more delicate and prone to becoming mushy. Always subtract two minutes from the package cooking time and start checking for doneness early. Stir the pasta frequently during the first five minutes of cooking to prevent sticking.

Sauce

To achieve that creamy sauce, start by making a roux using gluten-free flour—rice flour works particularly well—combined with butter and milk. Gradually whisk in your cheese of choice, ensuring it melts smoothly for that luscious texture. Don’t forget to season generously with salt, and pepper.

Cheese Selection

Use a combination of cheeses for maximum flavour. A mix of cheddar, Parmesan, and even Velveeta can create a rich, creamy texture. Add cheese gradually, stirring until completely melted.

Baking Technique

For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and sprinkle additional cheese and gluten-free breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 200c for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Serving Advice

Serve immediately for the best texture. If preparing in advance, keep the pasta and cheese sauce separate until ready to reheat. A quick rinse of the pasta can help prevent sticking, but be careful not to cool it down too much.

Pro tip: Gluten-free pasta is more sensitive to cooking times, so always taste and check for the perfect al dente texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta should I use for gluten-free mac and cheese?

Barilla gluten-free pasta is highly recommended. You can also use alternative shapes like penne or rigatoni if elbow macaroni isn’t available.

How do I prevent gluten-free pasta from becoming mushy?

Always undercook the pasta slightly and rinse briefly with cold water. Gluten-free pasta can get soggy quickly, so watch it carefully during cooking.

What gluten-free flour works best for the roux?

Doves Farm’s plain Gluten-Free Flour is an excellent option. Rice flour and cornflour can also be used as alternatives.

What cheeses work well in gluten-free mac and cheese?

A combination of cheddar, velveeta and parmesan cheese creates a rich, creamy texture. For vegan options, try smoky vegan cheese alternatives.

Can I prepare gluten-free mac and cheese in advance?

It’s best to keep the pasta and cheese sauce separate until ready to reheat. This prevents the pasta from becoming soggy.

How do I store gluten-free macaroni and cheese?

Refrigerator Storage

If you have any leftovers of the mac and cheese pop it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a small amount of milk or water to help loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze gluten-free mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Follow these steps:

• Cool the dish completely
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container
• Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheating Tips

• Add a splash of milk when reheating to prevent the sauce from becoming too dry
• Stir frequently to maintain a smooth texture
• Consider using the oven or microwave, depending on your preference

Pro Tip

For best results, store the pasta and sauce separately if possible, and combine them when ready to reheat. This helps maintain the optimal texture of both the pasta and cheese sauce.

Dietary Variations

Are there dairy-free or vegan options? Yes! You can use dairy-free milk, margarine, and vegan cheese to create a completely dairy-free and gluten-free version.

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• 

  John replied on April 9, 2025:

  
  Creamy, cheesy, and nobody even noticed it was gluten-free!

• 

  Kendrick lawn replied on April 9, 2025:

  
  So creamy and cheesy—I honestly forgot it was gluten-free.

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