Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy, then you’ll absolutely love this gluten free macaroni and cheese recipe.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, making it the perfect choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. I appreciate how simple it’s to whip up, and it never fails to impress my guests.
Plus, it caters to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. The combination of gooey goat cheese and a crunchy topping brings a delightful twist to the classic.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this dish a regular on your menu!
Ingredients of Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese
When it comes to making a delicious bowl of gluten-free macaroni and cheese, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This dish is all about comfort, and you want to make sure every component contributes to that creamy, cheesy goodness.
So, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to gather before you get cooking. Don’t worry; it’s not a long list, and you probably have a few of these items in your pantry already.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces dry brown rice pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons rice flour
- 2 1/2 cups almond milk (plain, unsweetened)
- 8 ounces goat cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon gluten-free honey mustard
- 2 gluten-free waffles
- Italian seasoning
Now, if you’re anything like me, you might be thinking about those gluten-free waffles. They’re not just for breakfast anymore. Seriously, they make a fantastic crunchy topping that truly elevates this dish.
Plus, you can customize the flavor of the topping by using different seasonings. If you’ve got some leftover herbs or even some garlic powder, toss them in there.
And if goat cheese isn’t your thing, feel free to swap in a different cheese that melts well (just make sure it’s gluten-free!). Cooking should be fun and flexible, so don’t stress too much about sticking to the list—experiment a little, and you might just create your new favorite version.
How to Make Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get down to the business of making this gluten-free macaroni and cheese. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step; it’s like the warm-up before a big game.
While the oven is heating up, cook 16 ounces of dry brown rice pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s cooked to al dente perfection, drain it and give it a nice rinse with cold water. This not only cools it down but also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together. Set it aside and let it chill for a moment.
Now, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When it’s shimmering and ready, stir in 3 tablespoons of rice flour. You’ll want to cook and stir this flour mixture for about 10 seconds—just enough to let the flour get cozy in the oil.
Gradually add in 2 1/2 cups of plain, unsweetened almond milk while whisking to combine everything into a smooth paste. As the mixture heats, it will bubble up and thicken, making that velvety sauce we all crave. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and add in 8 ounces of goat cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of gluten-free honey mustard. Stir it all together until the cheese melts into a creamy dream.
Now, it’s time to bring the pasta and sauce together in a big, happy union. Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in a 6-quart baking dish. But wait, we’re not done yet.
Remember those 2 gluten-free waffles? Toast them up, break them into pieces, and toss them into a food processor. Drizzle with a little olive oil, sprinkle in some Italian seasoning, and pulse until you’ve got a crumbly topping. Sprinkle that over the mac and cheese for an added crunch—because who doesn’t love a little texture?
Pop the dish into the oven and let it bake for about 25 minutes, or until it’s all bubbly and golden. When it’s done, you’ll have a dish that’s not just gluten-free but also packed with flavor and comfort. Enjoy!
Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese Substitutions & Variations
After creating that delicious base of gluten-free macaroni and cheese, you might be looking to switch things up or cater to specific dietary needs.
For a creamier texture, I love adding a bit of coconut cream or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using cashew cheese or a vegan cheese blend.
Want some protein? Toss in cooked chicken or sautéed veggies like spinach or broccoli.
And don’t forget spices—paprika or cayenne can add a kick. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.
Enjoy discovering your perfect combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your gluten-free macaroni and cheese turns out perfectly every time, I recommend keeping a few key tips in mind.
First, make certain your pasta is completely cooked but still firm; it’ll continue to cook in the oven.
Second, don’t rush the cheese melting process—low heat is your friend for a creamy sauce.
Third, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Finally, let it sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up before serving.
These tips will elevate your dish and impress anyone who tries it! Enjoy your delicious creation!