Easy Gluten-Free Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in a creamy, cheesy bowl of pure comfort with our Easy Gluten-Free Macaroni and Cheese recipe. This dish is perfect for those craving a classic favorite with a gluten-free twist. Designed to please kiddos and adults alike, this meal combines a gooey sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. In fact, this gluten-free mac and cheese is sure to become a weekly staple in your household!
Yield: Comfort in Every Bite
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8
Ingredients for Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese
- 10 ounces gluten-free elbow pasta
- ¼ cup butter (Optional)
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
- ¾ teaspoon mustard powder
- 4 cups milk
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 gluten-free bread slices, toasted and broken into crumbs (Optional)
- 1 teaspoon butter, softened (Optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (Optional)
Instructions for Making Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook the gluten-free elbow pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure not to overcook, as it will continue to cook in the oven later. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large saucepan, melt the optional ¼ cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the salt and mustard powder until well combined.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of cold water until smooth, then whisk this into the hot milk mixture. Stir until it thickens.
Step 6: Stir 3 cups of the Cheddar cheese into the thickened sauce, cooking until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 7: Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining cup of Cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta. In a small bowl, mix the optional bread crumbs with the softened butter and paprika, and sprinkle over the cheese.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Optional Healthier Cooking Option
For a healthier twist, consider using a small amount of olive oil instead of butter for the breadcrumb topping to reduce saturated fat content. Additionally, choose a lower-fat Cheddar cheese to decrease overall calories while maintaining flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Without a doubt, this gluten-free mac and cheese is a quick and satisfying meal suitable for any night of the week. It boasts a balance of creamy and cheesy goodness that’s downright irresistible. Plus, it makes for an excellent leftover option! Most importantly, whether you follow a gluten-free diet or just love cheesy comfort food, this recipe is bound to please everyone’s taste buds.
Try this gluten-free mac and cheese today and enjoy a delicious dish made seamlessly right at home!
