Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that doesn’t compromise on flavor just because it's gluten-free? This Gluten Free Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that will have you coming back for seconds! With a rich, velvety cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this American classic that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to create a gluten-free version of this beloved dish that will leave everyone asking for your secret!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz gluten-free pasta
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gluten-free pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 2 tablespoons of gluten-free flour and whisk together to form a roux. Continue whisking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, but not browned.
- Gradually pour in the 1 cup of milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and gently stir to combine, ensuring that all the pasta is well coated with the cheese sauce.
- Serve the gluten-free mac and cheese immediately, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for high-quality gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, quinoa, or lentils for the best texture and flavor. Cooking times may vary, so always check the package instructions.
- Make a Smooth Roux: When preparing the roux, ensure you whisk continuously to avoid lumps. This step is crucial for achieving a silky cheese sauce.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best melting quality, shred your cheddar cheese from a block rather than using pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier mac and cheese, feel free to add a bit more milk or even a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
- Add Flavor Variations: Consider mixing in some garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your mac and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or top with additional cheese and broil for a bubbly, golden finish.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
