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Creamy Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Topping Easy and Perfect

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A creamy, comforting gluten-free mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping that is quick, easy, and perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces gluten-free elbow macaroni (e.g., Barilla Gluten Free)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed (use dairy-free milk like oat or almond if needed)
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gluten-free elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in gluten-free all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until bubbly and nutty-smelling.
  3. Gradually pour in warmed whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low. Add shredded sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan a handful at a time, stirring until melted and combined. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and gently fold to coat evenly. Add a splash of milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a small bowl. Toss gluten-free breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
  7. Pour mac and cheese into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle buttery breadcrumbs over the top, pressing gently.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and topping is golden brown. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce and meld flavors.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and creaminess. Warm the milk before adding to the roux to prevent lumps. Watch the broiler carefully to avoid burning the topping. Let the dish rest before serving for best texture. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk and cheese and use dairy-free butter or oil for the topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, gluten-free comfort food, crispy topping, easy mac and cheese, gluten-free pasta recipe

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/creamy-gluten-free-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-topping-easy-and-perfect/