Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340g) gluten-free elbow macaroni (or your preferred shape)
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons (25g) gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 3 cups whole milk (for richer flavor) or milk alternative of choice
- 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the gluten-free pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm). Drain well.
Make the cheese sauce:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the gluten-free flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce has a creamy consistency.
Add the cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Gradually stir in the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack (or Colby Jack) cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Combine pasta and sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated.
Optional: Bake for extra goodness:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Enjoy! Let stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Tips:
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to try different cheese combinations. Gouda, mozzarella, or even a touch of cream cheese add unique flavors.
- Prevent clumping: To prevent cheese from clumping, add it in small amounts while stirring constantly.
- Adjust milk: Use slightly less milk for an even thicker sauce. Conversely, add a splash more milk if you prefer it a bit creamier.
- Customize: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick, or stir in cooked broccoli or crumbled bacon at the end.
