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Best Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 150 reviews

A creamy, cheesy gluten-free macaroni and cheese casserole featuring a rich cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Colby, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to golden perfection with a buttery gluten-free cracker topping. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a classic favorite adapted for gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound gluten-free elbows macaroni (or cavatappi pasta, cooked per box directions, aim for al dente)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 5 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional but recommended)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1 cup white Colby cheese (freshly grated or mozzarella)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Buttery Cracker Topping (Optional)

  • 1 1/2 cups gluten-free buttery crackers (such as Ritz, crushed into crumbs)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 cup white Colby cheese (freshly grated or mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for even baking of the casserole.
  2. Grease: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the mac and cheese from sticking after baking. Set this aside for later use.
  3. Cook Pasta: Prepare the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for an al dente texture. Drain and rinse briefly with hot water. Toss the pasta with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large bowl and set aside to keep it from sticking.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce – Melt Butter: In a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
  5. Whisk Flour: Add 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously until fully combined, creating a smooth roux.
  6. Add Milk Gradually: While whisking constantly, slowly pour in 5 cups of milk, stirring to create a creamy and lump-free sauce base.
  7. Season: Stir in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, mustard powder, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using), and 1/4 teaspoon salt to add flavor.
  8. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens.
  9. Incorporate Sour Cream: Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream until fully integrated for added creaminess. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Melt Cheese: Reduce heat to low and gradually add 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup white Colby cheese, and 1 cup Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all cheese has melted smoothly into the sauce.
  11. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until all pasta is well coated.
  12. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the prepared 9×13 baking dish and spread evenly.
  13. Prepare Buttery Cracker Topping: In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups crushed gluten-free buttery crackers with 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter until combined.
  14. Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese topping (1 cup white Colby, 1/2 cup cheddar, 1/2 cup Parmesan) over the pasta in the baking dish, then evenly distribute the buttery cracker mixture on top.
  15. Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  16. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly for best texture.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta and flour to keep this recipe fully gluten-free.
  • Sour cream adds extra creaminess but is optional if you prefer a lighter sauce.
  • The spicy red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder dish.
  • Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it firm up and enhances flavor blending.
  • You can substitute Colby cheese with mozzarella if preferred, but Colby adds a nice mild sharpness.
  • Make sure to crush the crackers finely for an even, crispy topping.

Keywords: gluten free mac and cheese, gluten free macaroni and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy gluten free dinner, gluten free comfort food

Find it online: https://reemcook.com/best-gluten-free-mac-and-cheese-recipe/