15 Family Gluten Free Dinner Ideas
Dinner time is a special moment for families to come together and share a meal. With the rise of gluten-free dietary needs, it can be challenging to find recipes that are both delicious and safe for everyone to enjoy.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 gluten-free dinner ideas that are perfect for families. From classic comfort foods to international dishes, these recipes are not only tasty but also offer a range of health benefits, including high protein and low carb options. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered.
Chicken Alfredo (GF Pasta) Approx. 550 calories | 35g protein
Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for dinner, and its high protein content makes it a great option for a weeknight meal. With gluten-free pasta, you can enjoy the creamy sauce and tender chicken without worrying about gluten. It’s also a low-carb option, making it a great choice for those watching their carb intake.
Ingredients
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
* 1 cup gluten-free pasta
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 cloves garlic
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter and cook the chicken until browned.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and chicken, and serve hot.
Homemade Gluten-Free Pizza Approx. 400 calories | 20g protein
Homemade gluten-free pizza is a fun and easy dinner idea that’s perfect for families. With a gluten-free crust, you can enjoy your favorite toppings without worrying about gluten. This recipe is also low in calories and rich in fiber, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can customize the toppings to suit your family’s tastes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
* 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/2 cup pizza sauce
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* Toppings of your choice (e.g. pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour and olive oil.
3. Roll out the dough and place it on a baking sheet.
4. Spread the pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and your desired toppings.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Baked Chicken Tenders Approx. 300 calories | 30g protein
Baked chicken tenders are a tasty and healthy dinner option that’s perfect for families. With gluten-free breading, you can enjoy crispy and tender chicken without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in protein and low in calories, making it a great option for a weeknight meal. You can serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun and interactive dinner.
Ingredients
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
* 1 cup gluten-free breading
* 2 eggs
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the gluten-free breading and panko breadcrumbs.
3. In a separate dish, beat the eggs.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Mac & Cheese (GF) Approx. 500 calories | 20g protein
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and its high carb content makes it a great option for a cold winter’s night. With gluten-free pasta, you can enjoy the creamy sauce and tender noodles without worrying about gluten. It’s also a great option for a special occasion meal, such as a birthday or holiday dinner.
Ingredients
* 1 pound gluten-free macaroni
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 cups milk
* 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
* 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the gluten-free macaroni according to package instructions.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter and whisk in the milk.
3. Add the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and stir until melted.
4. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, and serve hot.
Taco Night Platter Approx. 600 calories | 30g protein
Taco night is a fun and interactive dinner idea that’s perfect for families. With gluten-free tacos, you can enjoy your favorite toppings without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can customize the toppings to suit your family’s tastes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 packet of gluten-free taco seasoning
* 8-10 gluten-free tacos
* Shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and other toppings of your choice
Instructions
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the gluten-free taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
3. Warm the gluten-free tacos according to package instructions.
4. Assemble the tacos with the cooked ground beef and your desired toppings.
Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes Approx. 700 calories | 40g protein
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion meal, and its high protein content makes it a great option for a weeknight dinner. With gluten-free breadcrumbs, you can enjoy the tender meatloaf without worrying about gluten. It’s also a great option for a cold winter’s night, as the mashed potatoes provide a warm and comforting side dish.
Ingredients
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
* 1 egg
* 1/4 cup ketchup
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar
* 2-3 large potatoes
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, gluten-free breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, and brown sugar.
3. Mix well and form into a loaf shape.
4. Place the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk.
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks Approx. 400 calories | 30g protein
BBQ chicken drumsticks are a tasty and easy dinner idea that’s perfect for families. With gluten-free BBQ sauce, you can enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in protein and low in calories, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can serve it with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or baked beans, for a fun and interactive meal.
Ingredients
* 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
* 1/4 cup gluten-free BBQ sauce
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss to coat.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Shepherd’s Pie Approx. 600 calories | 30g protein
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, and its high carb content makes it a great option for a cold winter’s night. With gluten-free gravy, you can enjoy the tender meat and creamy mashed potatoes without worrying about gluten. It’s also a great option for a special occasion meal, such as a birthday or holiday dinner.
Ingredients
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
* 2 tablespoons gluten-free gravy mix
* 2-3 large potatoes
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, and cook until thawed.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free gravy mix and water.
6. Pour the gravy over the meat mixture, and stir to combine.
7. Boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk.
8. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by spreading the mashed potatoes over the meat mixture.
Sloppy Joes (GF Buns) Approx. 500 calories | 25g protein
Sloppy joes are a fun and easy dinner idea that’s perfect for families. With gluten-free buns, you can enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of the sloppy joes without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can customize the recipe to suit your family’s tastes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar
* 4-6 gluten-free buns
Instructions
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the ketchup and brown sugar, and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
4. Split the gluten-free buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
5. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto the buns, and serve hot.
Chicken Pot Pie (GF Crust) Approx. 550 calories | 30g protein
Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion meal, and its high protein content makes it a great option for a weeknight dinner. With a gluten-free crust, you can enjoy the tender chicken and creamy filling without worrying about gluten. It’s also a great option for a cold winter’s night, as the warm and flaky crust provides a comforting side dish.
Ingredients
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
* 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 gluten-free pie crust
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken and mixed vegetables until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in the chicken broth and butter, and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
4. Roll out the gluten-free pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
5. Spoon the chicken mixture into the pie crust, and cover with the remaining crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Lasagna (GF Sheets) Approx. 600 calories | 30g protein
Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion meal, and its high carb content makes it a great option for a cold winter’s night. With gluten-free lasagna sheets, you can enjoy the tender noodles and creamy sauce without worrying about gluten. It’s also a great option for a weeknight dinner, as the leftovers can be reheated for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients
* 8-10 gluten-free lasagna sheets
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 cups marinara sauce
* 1 cup ricotta cheese
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the gluten-free lasagna sheets according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and marinara sauce, and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
5. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Assemble the lasagna by layering the cooked noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Beef Burgers (GF Buns) Approx. 500 calories | 30g protein
Beef burgers are a classic dinner idea that’s easy to make gluten-free. With gluten-free buns, you can enjoy the juicy burgers and crispy toppings without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can customize the recipe to suit your family’s tastes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 4-6 gluten-free buns
* Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and other toppings of your choice
Instructions
1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, and mix until just combined.
4. Form the mixture into patties, and grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Split the gluten-free buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
6. Assemble the burgers with your desired toppings, and serve hot.
Fish Sticks (GF Coating) Approx. 400 calories | 20g protein
Fish sticks are a fun and easy dinner idea that’s perfect for families. With a gluten-free coating, you can enjoy the crispy and tender fish without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in protein and low in calories, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun and interactive meal.
Ingredients
* 1 pound fish sticks
* 1 cup gluten-free coating mix
* 2 eggs
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the gluten-free coating mix and panko breadcrumbs.
3. In a separate dish, beat the eggs.
4. Dip each fish stick into the eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the coated fish sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Fried Rice (GF Soy Sauce) Approx. 500 calories | 15g protein
Fried rice is a tasty and easy dinner idea that’s perfect for families. With gluten-free soy sauce, you can enjoy the savory and umami flavor without worrying about gluten. This recipe is high in carbs and fiber, making it a great option for a healthy dinner. You can customize the recipe to suit your family’s tastes, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
* 2 cups cooked rice
* 1 tablespoon gluten-free soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cooked rice, and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
4. Add the gluten-free soy sauce, and stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is crispy and golden brown.
Chili with Cornbread (GF) Approx. 600 calories | 30g protein
Chili with cornbread is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make gluten-free. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion meal, and its high protein content makes it a great option for a weeknight dinner. With gluten-free cornbread, you can enjoy the tender and crumbly bread without worrying about gluten. It’s also a great option for a cold winter’s night, as the warm and spicy chili provides a comforting side dish.
Ingredients
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup diced tomatoes
* 1 cup kidney beans
* 1 cup gluten-free cornbread mix
* 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a large pot, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, diced tomatoes, and kidney beans, and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbly.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free cornbread mix and olive oil.
5. Pour the cornbread mixture into a greased skillet or baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve the chili over the cornbread, and enjoy hot.
