Kid-Friendly Gluten-Free Dinner Ideas

Getting children to eat gluten-free can be one of the most challenging aspects of family life after a celiac diagnosis. Every favorite food - pizza, pasta, mac and cheese - seems to be off-limits. But every one of these favorites has a genuinely delicious gluten-free version.


Gluten-Free Pizza Night


Purchase a certified GF pizza crust from Udi's, Against the Grain, or Caulipower. Set up a topping bar with certified GF pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, and various toppings. Let each child build their own pizza.


Mac and Cheese


Cook Banza chickpea elbows or Barilla GF elbows al dente. For the cheese sauce: melt 2 tablespoons butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons GF flour, add 1.5 cups whole milk, stir until thick, then melt in 2 cups sharp cheddar. Season with salt and a pinch of dry mustard.


Taco Night


Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. Set up a taco bar with seasoned ground beef (use homemade GF seasoning), shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and lettuce. Taco night is naturally inclusive since everyone builds their own.


Homemade Chicken Nuggets


Dip chicken breast pieces in beaten egg, then coat in GF breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan. Bake at 425 degrees F for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping once. Serve with GF ketchup or honey mustard.


Rice Bowl Night


Cook a large pot of rice and set out toppings: teriyaki chicken made with GF tamari, edamame, shredded carrots, cucumber, avocado, and sesame seeds. Every family member customizes their own bowl.


Gluten-Free Spaghetti


Use rice or chickpea spaghetti with homemade meat sauce. Avoid overcooking and toss the drained pasta with sauce in the pan so it absorbs flavor.


Loaded Baked Potatoes


Potatoes are universally GF and endlessly customizable. Set out toppings including cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, broccoli, chives, and salsa. Let children load their own potato.


Keeping the Family Together


When one family member needs to eat gluten-free, consider making the whole family's dinner GF whenever practical. The small additional cost is worth it for the sense of normalcy and belonging it provides to a child managing this dietary restriction every day. 

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