Creamy Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese Bake
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese Bake, a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Perfectly cooked gluten-free elbow macaroni is enveloped in a luscious cheese sauce made from melted sharp cheddar and a blend of seasonings. This baked delight makes for a hearty main dish that kids and adults alike will love. Easy to prepare and sure to satisfy, it's a perfect choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
6
Servings
300
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 tablespoons (Melted)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (To taste)
Milk
2 cups (Of choice, whisked)
Cornstarch
1 tablespoon (Whisked with milk)
Sharp Cheddar Cheese
2 cups (Shredded, divided)
Gluten-Free Elbow Macaroni
16 ounces (Cooked as per package instructions)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
2
Cook gluten-free elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but reduce the cooking time slightly so the pasta stays firm. Drain and set aside.
3
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the salt and black pepper, and then remove from heat.
4
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and milk until completely smooth.
5
Gradually whisk the milk mixture into the melted butter, stirring constantly. Return to medium heat and continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
6
Stir 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce until completely melted and combined. Reserve the remaining 1 cup of cheese for the topping.
7
Gently fold the cheese sauce into the drained macaroni until thoroughly mixed.
8
Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
9
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
15
Fat
30
Carbs
13
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe uses gluten-free elbow macaroni and cornstarch as a thickener to ensure it is entirely gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
What size baking dish is required?
You will need a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
How much gluten-free macaroni is needed?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of gluten-free elbow macaroni.
Should I cook the pasta fully before baking?
No, you should reduce the cooking time slightly so the pasta stays firm, as it will continue to cook while baking.
What type of cheese is recommended?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its rich flavor.
How much cheese is used in total?
The recipe uses 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided.
What is the thickener for the cheese sauce?
Cornstarch is used to thicken the milk and butter mixture.
How much milk do I need?
The recipe requires 2 cups of your choice of milk.
How much butter is used in the sauce?
Two tablespoons of butter are used.
What seasonings are added to the cheese sauce?
The sauce is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
How long does it take for the sauce to thicken?
The mixture typically thickens in about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat.
How much cheese goes inside the sauce?
One cup of the shredded cheese is stirred into the sauce until melted.
What do I do with the second cup of cheese?
The remaining 1 cup of cheese is sprinkled evenly on top of the macaroni before baking.
How long should I bake the mac and cheese?
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes.
How do I know when the dish is finished baking?
The dish is ready when the top is bubbly and golden brown.
What are the calories per serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains 13 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
There are 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 15 grams of fat.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is described as a kid-friendly comfort food dish.
Can I use this for a family gathering?
Yes, it is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Do I need to grease the pan?
Yes, grease your baking dish before adding the mixture to prevent sticking.
Can I use different seasonings?
While the recipe suggests salt and pepper, you can adjust them to your taste.
Is the milk whisked with cornstarch while cold?
Yes, whisk the cornstarch and milk together in a separate bowl until smooth before adding to the butter.
Should I cover the dish with foil?
The instructions specify to bake the dish uncovered.
How long should it cool before serving?
Allow the bake to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce set.
Is this a main dish or a side dish?
It is a hearty dish that can serve as a main course or a side.
What is the first step of the recipe?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease your baking dish.