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A bowl of creamy, gluten-free mac and cheese with a velvety golden cheese sauce, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika.

Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese

A creamy and cheesy gluten-free mac and cheese recipe made with a rich cheese sauce and gluten-free pasta, perfect for comfort food cravings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Baking dish
  • Wooden Spoon

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 oz gluten-free elbow macaroni brown rice or chickpea-based
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch
  • 2 cups whole milk or lactose-free milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese grated
  • 1 tsp mustard powder
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper adjust to taste
  • ¼ tsp paprika optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten-free elbow macaroni and cook until just under al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of cooking water.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or cornstarch and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Stir in the mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Lower the heat and slowly add the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, whisking until melted and incorporated into a smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water.
  • Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring all noodles are coated. For added flavor, sprinkle paprika on top if desired.
  • Optional: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes for a lightly golden crust.
  • Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

For an even creamier sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. Use lactose-free cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 17gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Gluten-Free, Mac and Cheese
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