There’s something magical about crisp autumn air drifting in through the kitchen window while a dish of cheesy goodness bubbles away in the oven. Cheesy Gluten Free Potato Casserole has become one of my most beloved comfort foods, not just for its rich, savory flavor, but for the memories it brings to life.
Back in Tuscany, Sunday lunches meant long tables full of family, where casseroles were never fancy but always deeply satisfying. After discovering my gluten intolerance, I had to rethink so many of those traditions. Rebuilding recipes from the ground up became a kind of culinary therapy. This casserole was one of the first I successfully transformed without losing any of the creamy, golden, stick-to-your-ribs warmth I grew up on.
Today, it’s a go-to in our house when the leaves start falling, and it always disappears fast. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, Sunday dinner, or just a cozy evening in, this dish delivers. And yes, this version is 100% gluten-free without compromising a single ounce of comfort.
Cheesy Gluten Free Potato Casserole
Equipment
- saucepan
- whisk
- mandoline or knife
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- oven
- foil
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1)
- 1 1/2 cups milk of choice (whole or unsweetened almond milk)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground mustard
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.
- Sprinkle in gluten-free flour and stir to coat. Slowly whisk in milk to form a smooth sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add paprika, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the potatoes evenly, pour half the cheese sauce on top. Repeat with remaining potatoes and sauce. Sprinkle parmesan on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until golden and potatoes are fork-tender. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
The Ingredients That Make It Irresistible
The heart of any good casserole is its base, and here, we keep it classic with tender potatoes, melty cheese, and a simple, flavorful sauce. Everything is gluten-free, with easy pantry staples that come together beautifully.
Ingredient List
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour (like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1)
- 1½ cups milk of choice (whole or unsweetened almond milk works great)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped chives or green onions for garnish
These simple ingredients shine when combined, and you can even prepare them ahead of time. Want to add a veggie twist? Thinly sliced zucchini or spinach layers fit right in here. This recipe also pairs well with cozy side dishes like Parmesan Garlic Cauliflower Bites or a bowl of Butternut Squash Soup Shooters.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheesy Gluten Free Potato Casserole
This is a forgiving, beginner-friendly recipe. Just follow each step and you’ll have a bubbling, golden masterpiece ready for the table.
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash, peel, and slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. You want them to cook evenly and layer well in the casserole.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the gluten-free flour over the onion mixture and stir until coated. Slowly whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened slightly. Stir in the paprika, ground mustard, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Then mix in the cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the sliced potatoes evenly, pour over half of the cheese sauce, then repeat. Finish with grated parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and the potatoes are fork-tender. Let it rest 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Cheesy Casserole Success
Making casseroles is all about balance: creamy vs. crispy, flavor vs. texture. These tips will help you hit the sweet spot.
- Use starchy potatoes: Russets yield a softer, creamier base, while Yukon Golds offer a buttery bite.
- Slice evenly: A mandoline makes quick, even slices which cook uniformly.
- Cheese variety matters: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor; mozzarella brings the stretch. Want extra tang? Mix in gruyère or fontina.
- Don’t skip resting time: Letting the dish sit before serving helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Double it: Feeding a crowd? This casserole scales up beautifully. It also reheats like a dream.
Try serving it alongside Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze for a complete fall-inspired dinner.
Variations to Make It Your Own
The base recipe is comforting perfection, but sometimes it’s fun to get creative. Here are a few twists that still keep it gluten-free and delicious.
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Top with crumbled turkey bacon, chopped scallions, and a dollop of sour cream. This variation turns your casserole into the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Add Protein
Mix in pre-cooked shredded chicken or crumbled ground turkey between layers to make it a full meal. It pairs well with fall salads or even a simple side of Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese with Hidden Veggies.
Vegetarian Upgrade
Add layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrients.
Spice It Up
Like a little heat? Stir diced jalapeños or red chili flakes into the sauce before layering.
For an extra dose of comfort, try this casserole next to Gluten-Free Chicken Noodle Soup or follow it up with something sweet like Gluten-Free Apple Crisp.
Storage and Reheating
Casseroles are the gift that keeps on giving. Here’s how to store and enjoy leftovers:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Let cool completely, slice into portions, and wrap well. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping or holiday make-ahead menus. It even makes a comforting brunch side next to eggs and greens.
FAQs About Cheesy Gluten Free Potato Casserole
Can I make this dairy-free as well?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese (like Daiya or Violife), and a thick unsweetened plant milk such as cashew or almond. The results are still creamy and satisfying.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.
Why use gluten-free flour instead of cornstarch?
Gluten-free flour gives a creamier, richer texture to the sauce. Cornstarch is an option, but the result may be slightly thinner.
How do I know when it’s done?
The top should be golden, and a fork should slide easily into the potatoes. If in doubt, test with a knife at the center of the dish.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Gluten Free Potato Casserole is everything a comfort food should be: warm, creamy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re new to gluten-free cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish fits beautifully into cozy fall dinners or special gatherings.
And for more hearty, gluten-free meal ideas, check out dishes like Cottage Mac and Cheese – Gluten Free or explore a lighter side with Mini Pumpkin Fritters.
Wherever you serve it, around a holiday table or on a regular weeknight, I hope it brings your home the same comfort and joy it brings to mine.