Randy Chandler
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved dish for many, but for those who are gluten intolerant, finding a tasty gluten-free version can be challenging. Luckily, there are now a variety of gluten-free options available, from boxed mixes to homemade recipes. While creating a gluten-free cheese sauce that tastes good and has the right consistency can be tricky, several brands, including Kraft, Annie's, and Banza, offer decent options. For those who prefer to make their own, gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or chickpeas can be combined with a variety of cheeses to create a delicious, creamy dish.
Is Mac and Cheese Gluten-Free?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can mac and cheese be made gluten-free? | Yes, by using gluten-free pasta and flour, and a cheese sauce without flour. |
| Is it easy to make? | Yes, it can be made in one pot in 15-20 minutes. |
| What type of pasta should be used? | Gluten-free macaroni, penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or elbow pasta. |
| Can I use a different type of cheese? | Yes, any variety of cheese can be used, such as cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, parmesan, or fontina. |
| How long does it take to cook the pasta? | Until it is “al dente”, not mushy. |
| How much cheese is needed? | Around 3 cups of shredded cheese for a 12 oz box of pasta. |
| Can I add a crunchy topping? | Yes, by using gluten-free breadcrumbs, french onions, saltines, or oyster crackers. |
| How long does it store for? | Up to 5 days in the fridge. |
| Are there any gluten-free brands available? | Yes, Kraft, Annie's, and Barilla offer gluten-free options. |
Explore related products
![Le Veneziane - Italian Elbows Pasta [Gluten-Free], (4)- 8.8 oz. Pkgs](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51dEhEDGoQL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
What You'll Learn
Gluten-free mac and cheese recipes
Macaroni and cheese is not inherently gluten-free, but it can be easily adapted to be gluten-free. There are many gluten-free mac and cheese recipes available online, and some pre-made options at grocery stores.
Ingredients
Preparation
To prepare the dish, start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux. Add milk, salt, and any desired seasonings, such as mustard powder or cayenne pepper, and stir until well combined. Slowly add the cheese, then add the cooked pasta and stir until coated.
Tips
Some tips for making gluten-free mac and cheese include shredding your own cheese, as pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly. Additionally, be sure to use enough water when cooking the pasta to avoid a gummy texture, and always cook the pasta to al dente. If you want a crispy topping, you can bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 30 minutes, or add gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Pre-made Options
If you don't want to make your own gluten-free mac and cheese, there are some pre-made options available at grocery stores, such as Kraft, Annie's, and Beecher's. These options offer a convenient and tasty alternative to making it from scratch.
String Cheese: Gluten-Free Kraft Snack Option
You may want to see also
Gluten-free mac and cheese products
Macaroni and cheese is not inherently gluten-free, but there are many gluten-free options available. Gluten-free pasta is typically made from rice and corn, and it can be challenging to find a cheese sauce that uses thickeners without gluten. However, there are now several gluten-free mac and cheese products available in the market, and you can also make it at home with simple ingredients.
There are several gluten-free mac and cheese products available in the market, including both boxed and frozen options. Here are some popular brands:
- Kraft: Kraft, a well-known brand for mac and cheese, released a gluten-free version in 2020. It has the same familiar taste and texture as the original, and you can add your favourite ingredients like frozen peas and sliced hot dogs.
- Annie's: Annie's Gluten-Free mac and cheese is a popular choice and is often praised for its creamy sauce and natural colour. It uses the same noodle shape as Kraft, but it may take longer to cook.
- Jovial: Jovial's gluten-free macaroni and cheese is a newer product, certified gluten-free by the GFCO. It offers a phenomenal cheese flavour and the texture of brown rice pasta. However, it may be challenging to find in regular supermarkets.
- Beecher's: Beecher's gluten-free mac and cheese is known for its deeply creamy, nutty, and sharp cheddar cheese sauce. The pasta is made with wheat flour, and it's available as a frozen meal.
- Trader Joe's: Trader Joe's offers a GF frozen Mac & Cheese option.
- Aldi: Aldi has its own gluten-free line called "Live G-Free," which includes mac and cheese.
- Whole Foods: Whole Foods carries various gluten-free mac and cheese options, including the Jovial brand.
Homemade Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese
If you prefer to make your own gluten-free mac and cheese, it's quite simple! You can use gluten-free elbow pasta made from a corn/rice blend, or other short-cut pasta options. For the sauce, you can use butter, milk (dairy or non-dairy), and your choice of cheese. Popular cheese options include sharp cheddar, gouda, fontina, mozzarella, and parmesan. You can also add spices like cayenne pepper and salt to taste. Simply cook the pasta according to the package instructions and create a creamy sauce by mixing melted butter, gluten-free flour, milk, and cheese.
So, whether you prefer a convenient boxed or frozen option or a homemade dish, there are plenty of gluten-free mac and cheese choices to satisfy your cravings!
Feta Cheese: Is It Dairy-Free or Not?
You may want to see also
Cheese types for gluten-free mac and cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a meal that is not inherently gluten-free, but it can be easily adapted. The pasta used in macaroni and cheese can be substituted with a gluten-free alternative, such as pasta made from rice, corn, chickpea, or legumes.
When it comes to gluten-free cheese options for mac and cheese, there are several varieties to choose from. Here are some cheese types and tips to help you create a delicious gluten-free mac and cheese:
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for mac and cheese, and there are gluten-free options available. Look for sharp, extra sharp, or medium-sharp cheddar to add a rich and creamy texture to your dish.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is another great option for gluten-free mac and cheese. It has a mild flavor and melts well, creating a creamy and stretchy texture.
Fontina Cheese
Fontina cheese is a medium-hard cheese that can add a creamy and decadent touch to your gluten-free mac and cheese. It pairs well with other cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
Gouda Cheese
Gouda is a medium-hard cheese that can be used on its own or in combination with other cheeses. It has a creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavor that can enhance the taste of your gluten-free mac and cheese.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is a classic addition to mac and cheese, and it is naturally gluten-free. It adds a salty, nutty flavor and can enhance the overall richness of the dish.
When making gluten-free mac and cheese, feel free to experiment with different combinations of these cheeses to find your favorite blend. You can also add milk, butter, and gluten-free flour to create a creamy cheese sauce. Additionally, consider using gluten-free breadcrumbs or other toppings to add a crunchy texture to your mac and cheese.
Remember to always read the labels and choose gluten-free certified products to ensure your mac and cheese is completely gluten-free.
Kerrygold Cheese: Is It Casein-Free?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Gluten-free pasta types
Gluten-free pasta is usually made from alternative grains, legumes, or other types of flour. These include brown rice, white rice, corn, buckwheat, quinoa, lentils, peas, and chickpeas. Some gluten-free pasta is also made from almond flour, cassava, sweet potato, or beans.
Pasta made from gluten-free grains tends to be more nutrient-dense than rice or corn-based pasta. For example, brown rice pasta contains protein and fiber, and buckwheat pasta has a strong flavor. Cassava pasta, on the other hand, has a relatively mild flavor, while bean thread pasta is fine in texture and silky smooth.
There are several brands of gluten-free pasta available, including Taste Republic, Banza, ZENB, Jovial, Thai Kitchen, and Miracle Noodles. Taste Republic's Fusilli, for instance, has a buttery and smooth taste and works well with any sauce. Banza, made from chickpeas, comes in a variety of pasta shapes, including linguine and cascatelli. ZENB, made from yellow peas, offers penne, elbows, and rotini that maintain the look and feel of traditional pasta.
Gluten-free pasta is also available in the form of macaroni and cheese. Several recipes for gluten-free macaroni and cheese can be found online, and brands like Kraft, Annie's, and Barilla offer gluten-free macaroni and cheese products.
Gluten-Free Velveeta: Kraft's Cheesy Delight
You may want to see also
Toppings for gluten-free mac and cheese
Gluten-free mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be topped with a variety of ingredients to enhance its flavour and texture. Here are some topping ideas to elevate your gluten-free mac and cheese:
Cheesy Toppings
For an extra cheesy kick, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of your mac and cheese. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its robust and tangy flavour, and excellent melting properties. Other cheese options include mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, smoked gouda, brie, gruyere, fontina, cream cheese, or goat cheese.
Crunchy Toppings
To add a crunchy texture, consider using toasted gluten-free breadcrumbs, croutons, or crushed gluten-free crackers. For an indulgent twist, crushed potato chips or crispy gluten-free bacon bits can also be sprinkled on top.
Protein Toppings
Boost the protein content of your mac and cheese by adding grilled chicken breasts, shredded chicken, canned tuna, sausage, ground beef, shrimp, lobster, or crab meat. For a vegetarian option, silken tofu can be blended into the cheese sauce for an extra creamy and protein-rich dish.
Vegetable Toppings
Add some extra nutrition and colour to your mac and cheese with vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, carrots, corn, peas, spinach, or kale. For a subtle sweetness, include diced sweet potatoes or pumpkin, especially during the fall season.
Herb and Spice Toppings
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only add flavour but also brighten up the dish. A sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder can also enhance the overall taste of your gluten-free mac and cheese.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your own unique combinations. Get creative and enjoy experimenting with different flavours and textures to find your favourite gluten-free mac and cheese masterpiece!
Lactose-Free Cheese: A Low-FODMAP Diet Option?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Macaroni and cheese is not inherently gluten-free, but it can be made gluten-free by substituting regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
Gluten-free pasta options include Barilla's gluten-free pasta, which comes in elbow, penne, and fusilli shapes. Other gluten-free pasta shapes include rigatoni, rice/corn blend pasta, brown rice pasta, and chickpea pasta.
There are several gluten-free cheese options for macaroni and cheese, including cheddar, gouda, fontina, mozzarella, parmesan, and velveeta. You can also get creative and mix different cheeses to find your preferred flavour.
Yes, there are several store-bought options for gluten-free macaroni and cheese, including Kraft, Annie's, and frozen varieties.
To prevent gluten-free macaroni and cheese from becoming mushy, use enough water when cooking the pasta and avoid overcooking it. Rinse the pasta with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process. Additionally, gluten-free pasta can be rinsed for a few seconds to remove excess starch, but be careful not to cool it too much.
