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Creamy Oven-Baked Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese Recipe

Easy Oven-Baked Gluten Free Mac and Cheese

A healthy twist on the American classic mac n’ cheese — dreamy, creamy, cheesy, and finished with a crunchy, salty topping. This gluten free macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike, with simple swaps available for dairy-free diets.

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What Makes This Recipe Great

This recipe recreates the comfort of a classic homestyle mac and cheese while removing gluten and offering dairy-free options. It uses straightforward pantry ingredients — gluten-free pasta, a simple roux-based cheese sauce, and a crushed-cracker topping that replaces traditional Ritz crumbs. The result is rich and comforting, with familiar cheddar flavor and a satisfying crunch on top.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 40 minutes
  • Total time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 people
  • Author: Mary Smith

Ingredient Notes

ingredients for baked gluten free mac and cheese in individual nesting bowls
  • Butter: regular or vegan butter works well.
  • Gluten-free 1:1 flour: use your preferred brand for a roux.
  • Milk: organic dairy milk or an unsweetened plant milk such as almond milk.
  • Salt & pepper: adjust to taste.
  • Cheeses: shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack combine for creaminess and flavor; substitute vegan shreds for dairy-free diets.
  • Gluten-free pasta: elbow pasta is classic, but penne, farfalle, or fusilli work too.
  • Cracker topping: crushed gluten-free sea salt crackers or any gluten-free crackers or chips for the crunchy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

the first four steps for making gluten free mac and cheese
steps 5-8 for making gluten free mac and cheese in the oven
the last 4 steps for making mac and cheese in the oven
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
  3. While the pasta cooks, make the cheese sauce: melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Add the gluten-free 1:1 flour to the melted butter and whisk to form a smooth roux.
  5. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  6. Continue to stir and simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
  7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, then stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in the prepared casserole dish, mixing gently to coat the noodles evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the crushed gluten-free crackers evenly over the top for a crunchy topping.
  10. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Serve warm.
baked gluten free mac and cheese with a serving spoon taking out a scoop

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp butter (or vegan butter)
  • 2 tbsp gluten-free 1:1 flour
  • 2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (or vegan shreds)
  • 4 oz shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or vegan shreds)
  • 12 oz gluten-free elbow pasta
  • 1 cup crushed gluten-free sea salt crackers (or other gluten-free crackers/chips)

Expert Tips

  • Cheese choices: Swap mild cheddar for sharp or white cheddar to change the flavor profile. Adding a small amount of grated Parmesan boosts umami.
  • Seasoning: Garlic powder, mustard powder, or a pinch of smoked paprika can add depth. Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Pasta brands: Use any trusted gluten-free pasta and follow package timing to avoid overcooking.
  • Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk and vegan shredded cheeses, and choose a vegan butter to make the dish fully dairy-free.

Serving Tips

  • Serve this mac and cheese as a comforting main or as a hearty side at potlucks and holiday dinners.
  • For more protein, serve alongside roasted chicken, steak, or a gluten-free plant-based protein pasta made from chickpea or lentil.
plates of baked gluten free mac and cheese with a brown napkin

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Recipe FAQs

Is regular boxed mac and cheese gluten-free?
Many boxed mac and cheese products contain gluten, although some brands offer gluten-free versions. This baked, homestyle recipe uses gluten-free pasta and crackers to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can people with celiac disease eat this macaroni?
Yes, provided you use pasta and crackers that are certified gluten-free and avoid cross-contamination during preparation. Always check labels and, if necessary, use dedicated utensils and cookware to reduce risk.

a plate of mac and cheese with a fork

Nutrition (estimated per serving)

Calories: 521 kcal | Carbohydrates: 59 g | Protein: 16 g | Fat: 24 g | Saturated Fat: 13 g | Sodium: 761 mg | Fiber: 2 g

All nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on the exact ingredients used. For precise values, weigh your ingredients and divide by the number of servings.

More Gluten-Free Pasta Ideas

Try this recipe as a template for other gluten-free pasta dishes: add roasted vegetables, swap in different cheeses, or mix in shredded chicken or tuna for a protein boost.

This post was originally published on November 4, 2017 and updated with new photos and copy on August 22, 2023.