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Homemade Easy Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese photo

Easy Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, baked gluten-free macaroni and cheese with a buttery cracker topping.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound gluten-free elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta cooked per box directions, aim for al dente
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter for sauce
  • 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 5 cups milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/2 cup sour cream optional
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1 cup white Colby cheese freshly grated (or use mozzarella)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 1/2 cups gluten-free cracker crumbs
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, for topping
  • 1 cup white Colby cheese freshly grated (topping) or use mozzarella
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese freshly grated (topping)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated (topping)

Equipment

  • 9x13 Baking Dish
  • Large Pot
  • Large Bowl
  • Large saucepan or skillet
  • Whisk
  • Medium bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Fork

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
  2. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, briefly run under hot water, toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and transfer to a large bowl.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
  4. Add 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk until combined to form a smooth roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in 5 cups milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
  6. Add 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for about 2 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat to low and, if using, stir in 1/2 cup sour cream until smooth.
  8. Add 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup white Colby, and 1 cup Parmesan to the sauce and stir until all the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  9. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta in the large bowl and stir until evenly combined.
  10. Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
  11. In a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups gluten-free cracker crumbs with 6 tablespoons melted butter and stir with a fork until evenly moistened.
  12. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses (1 cup white Colby, 1 cup cheddar, 1/2 cup Parmesan) evenly over the macaroni, then top with the buttery cracker crumb mixture.
  13. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
  14. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
  • Aim for al dente pasta so it doesn't become mushy after baking.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional and add a mild heat.
  • You can substitute mozzarella for Colby if preferred.