Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Zucchini Boats

Your childhood favorite just became healthier and more fun with these gluten free mac and cheese zucchini boats!

Mac and cheese was probably the first dish I ever learned to make on my own. And, I definitely had some help from a box. Ooh- and remember those boxes of Pasta-Roni? We always had a few in the pantry. Along with pizza, hot dogs, spaghetti, and mashed potatoes- mac and cheese is a childhood staple! Except when it comes to my nephew... He'll take the pizza and hot dogs, but would like nothing to do with the others. I mean...what kid turns up their nose at macaroni and cheese?!? Seriously!?!

Years ago, I'll be honest, gluten free pastas were just not great! Luckily...we have come a long way, and now you can find many delicious varieties. Top ingredients may include corn, rice, or quinoa, but there are numerous possibilities. Experiment to find your favorite!

Mac and Cheese in Zucchini Boats

Mac and cheese is so easy to make! I'm not sure why I ever needed a box! Pasta, butter, milk, and cheese is really all it takes! And I mean...ok the little blue box was pretty freaking delicious! But, here's how to ditch that blue box forever!

  1. Boil the pasta- shells, elbows, penne, rigatoni, gluten free...
  2. Reserve a little of the pasta water (1/4 to 1/2 cup.)
  3. Drain the pasta. Then, return pasta to the same pot (with the heat turned off.)
  4. Add butter and milk and begin to stir. Then, add some cheese and pasta water until your desired cheesy consistency is reached.
  5. Dig in!

Close up of Gluten Free Macaroni and Cheese Zucchini Boat

Ingredients in Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Zucchini Boats

  • Gluten Free Pasta
  • Shredded Cheese
  • Milk
  • Butter
  • Zucchini
  • Olive Oil

What are the best cheeses for macaroni and cheese?

  1. Cheddar Cheese- it's tough to go wrong with this classic!
  2. Parmesan Cheese- This is a great addition, but I wouldn't go with all Parmesan, unless you're going for an alfredo sauce.
  3. Gruyere, brie, gouda, Monterey jack, and/or fontina.

 

Why add zucchini?

I think the better question is...why not? Add some green veg in there! Can't get your kids to eat enough veggies?!? Make it into a fun boat! Plus, who can resist anything topped with mac and cheese?!?

Small Zucchini Boats with GF Mac and Cheese

Gluten Free Mac and Cheese Zucchini Boats

Your childhood favorite just became healthier and more fun with these gluten free mac and cheese zucchini boats!

Prep:
5
min
cook:
25
min
total:
30
min
Author:

Ingredients
  • 4 medium zucchinis
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 12 oz. gluten free pasta
  • 3 Tbsp. butter
  • 1/4 c. milk
  • 1 c. shredded cheese (+ 1/2 c. for sprinkling on boats)
Instructions
  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  • Slice each zucchini in half. Next, use a small spoon to scoop out part of the center/seeds. Brush the inside with olive oil. Then, season with salt and pepper. Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Bring a medium pot filled halfway with water to a boil. Add the pasta and 1/2 tsp. of salt. Allow to boil until pasta is tender, about 7-12 minutes (depending upon size and package directions.) Use a mug to remove up to 1/2 cup of the water. Next, turn off the heat and drain the pasta. Return the pasta to the warm pot.
  • Add the butter and milk to the pasta and begin to stir. Then add the cheese and pasta water, until desired cheesy consistency is reached. Stir occasionally until the zucchini is ready.
  • Remove the zucchini from the oven and set oven to high broil. Spoon mac and cheese into each zucchini boat. Top with additional shredded cheese. Broil for 3-5 minutes, until cheese is brown and bubbly.

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