Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Recipe

Common Questions

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix things up with gruyère, fontina, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for that ultra-creamy texture.

How to prevent mushy gluten free pasta?

The key is to cook the pasta just until al dente, then immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it firm and prevents it from overcooking once baked with the cheese sauce!

This easy Baked Mac & Cheese recipe is gluten-free and comes together in under 45 minutes! This has been my go-to mac and cheese for years. I love it anytime of the year, but especially around the holidays! While many gluten-free pasta recipes can be a bit bland and dry, this baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, comforting, and so flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients you can easily make the BEST baked mac and cheese in no time!

Gluten-Free Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

Made with gluten-free elbows (or any pasta of choice), three different types of cheese, and a crunchy parmesan breadcrumb topping that takes things to another level, I could not be more obsessed with this creamy mac and cheese recipe. Even my kids love it!

It’s easy enough to make as a busy weeknight side dish, while still tasting impressive enough for gatherings with friends or even the holidays. And after years of testing this recipe, I can honestly say it’s perfect!

Ingredients for Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese

Shells and Sauce

• Gluten-Free Elbows (opens in a new tab) – Penne, shells, or bowtie pasta works great, too!
• Butter
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour (opens in a new tab)
• Milk – Plant-based alternatives work too, but you want to make sure that the milk is thick and creamy. Regular milk or whole milk works best, but creamy oat milk or cashew milk (unflavored and unsweetened) are also great options.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Shredded Mozzarella
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated is best.
• Garlic Powder
• Salt/Pepper

Topping

• Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs (opens in a new tab)– or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Parmesan Cheese
• Optional: Add freshly chopped parsley, basil, or even sage leaves as garnish!

Gluten Free Mac n Cheese Substitutions

Maybe you care about this, maybe you don’t. But I often get asked about what type of alternative ingredients I use! So if you’re interested, here are some of my favorite gluten-free pasta options:

• Barilla Gluten-Free Elbows (opens in a new tab) – Great for an everyday option!
• Banza Chickpea Pasta (opens in a new tab) – Higher in protein AND gluten-free.
• Whole Foods 365 Brand Pasta (opens in a new tab) – Made from corn and rice, this brand is actually really good for most recipes.

How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese

It is truly SO easy to make this Gluten-Free Mac & Cheese recipe! All you need is a pot to boil the pasta, a saucepan for the cheese sauce, and a baking dish or casserole dish. Here’s how to put it together in 7 simple steps:

1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package directions.
2. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a saucepan.
3. Whisk in the gluten-free flour, then slowly pour in the milk and seasoning.
4. Let simmer over medium heat to thicken the sauce.
5. Remove from heat and add in the three types of cheeses.
6. Add the pasta back in to the mixture, stir, then pour into a baking dish or casserole dish.
7. Top with parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake at 400 degrees F. for 20-25 minutes!

Tip: feel free to mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground turkey before baking for added protein!

How to Make Ahead of Time

Yes, you can absolutely make this Gluten-Free Baked Mac & Cheese ahead of time! Simply make the recipe according to the instructions below, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready, add the parmesan breadcrumb topping and bake!

Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Serving Suggestions

Here’s what to serve this recipe with for the best meal:

• Garlic Green Beans – Light and crisp to balance out the richness.
• Easy Roasted Carrots
• Simple Garden Salad – Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
• Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
• Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts – The perfect savory side!
• Honey Balsamic Chicken – For a protein-packed main dish alongside mac and cheese that pairs so well.

How to Store Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days! This recipe can also be frozen for later. Let cool in the fridge, then move the container to the freezer and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for a minute or two, stirring often until evenly warm!

More Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes

• Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
• 4-Ingredient Potato Soup
• Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
• Mushroom Cauliflower Pizza
• Gluten-Free Chicken & Dumplings

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Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs