Having to go gluten-free around the holidays can be very disheartening, gluten seems to be in everything! However, there are some simple adjustments that can be made to traditional fare to make them gluten-free. Subbing out these ingredients is fairly simple.
Cross contamination is always an issue if you are not in a strictly gluten-free household. I often offer to bring a gluten-free version of a holiday dish. I bring it along to the host’s house with separate serving utensils to share.
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1. Classic Stuffing
Traditional stuffing contains bread, which as we know, has gluten. For a gluten-free version, swap regular bread with a gluten-free loaf, like a rustic gluten-free sourdough or baguette.
Toast the gluten-free bread cubes to achieve a better texture before mixing in your favorite herbs, broth, and veggies. Don’t over mix. Gluten-free bread likes to turn to mush.
Gluten-Free Recommendation:
2. Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a holiday classic that brings warmth and flavor to any festive table. For those eating gluten-free, finding a cornbread that holds up for stuffing can be a challenge—but not anymore! This recipe ensures a sturdy, flavorful gluten-free cornbread that stands up beautifully when transformed into stuffing. Remember to toast your gluten-free cornbread cubes to prevent crumbling and handle gently; over-mixing can turn your stuffing into mush. With a little care, you’ll have a deliciously hearty and satisfying gluten-free stuffing for your holiday spread!
Gluten-Free Cornbread for Stuffing
Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten-free cornmeal
- 1 cup gluten-free all purpose flour blend, with xantham gum, if your mix does not include xantham gum, add 1 tsp of xantham gum.
- 1 TBS baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs at room temp
- 1 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar added, rested for 10 minutes)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch square or round baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free cornmeal, gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, do not over mix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cornbread cool completely, then cut it into cubes. Toast the cubes in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until dried.
Notes
Tips for Stuffing:
- The drier the cornbread cubes, the better they will absorb the flavors of your stuffing mix.
Gluten-Free Recommendation:
- Don’t want to make your own stuffing? Trader Joe’s sells gluten-free version of Cornbread Stuffing.
3. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole traditionally uses canned cream of mushroom soup and fried onions, which can contain gluten. There are now gluten-free cream of mushroom soups and gluten-free french fried onions (buy these as soon as you seem them in the store they sell out very quickly!)
Gluten-Free Recommendations:
- Progresso Cream of Mushroom Soup
- Great Value Gluten Free Cream of Mushroom
- Full-Circle Market French Fried Onions
4. Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Enjoy all the deliciousness of Pumpkin Pie without the crust. This way, you can savor even more of the smooth, spiced pumpkin goodness. This is what makes this holiday favorite so irresistible.
Gluten-Free Recommendations:
- Make pumpkin pie filling using the recipe on the can of Libby’s Pure Pumpkin. Bake it in a cute dish.
- Libby’s has a crustless pumpkin pie on their website!
- Tip: You can sub the evaporated milk with lactose free evaporated milk, if needed.
7. Gluten-Free Pie Crusts
While crustless pumpkin pie is an easy go-to, you can also make your own gluten-free pie crust. Use a mix of gluten-free flours and butter. Alternatively, you can use a premade mix. This way, you can enjoy any kind of pie you desire.
Gluten-Free Recommendations:
- Glutino Gluten Free Pie Crust Mix
- Gluten-Free King Arthur’s Pie Crust Mix
- Tip: Keep the pie dough very cold. Sometimes, these crusts just will not roll out. Don’t stress, just press them into the pie dish.
- Mi-Del Gluten Free Graham Style Pie Crust
- Frozen Wholly Pie Shells, Gluten Free, 9 Inch, 2 Pack
- I keep these in my freezer at all times for emergency pie situations!
8. Gravy
Gravy often contains flour as a thickener, making it a challenge for those eating gluten-free. The solution? Use cornstarch to thicken your gravy. Whisk the alternative thickener with cold water or broth before adding it to your gravy base to prevent clumping.
9. Sauces and Dressings
Many holiday sauces, like cranberry sauce, can contain gluten as a thickener or binder. Check labels carefully, or better yet, make your own.
Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all natural orange juice with no pulp
- 1 tbsp fresh orange zest optional
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and orange juice. If using, add the orange zest.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness if desired by adding a little more sugar. Simmer for an additional few minutes if adding more sugar.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce can be made up to a week in advance.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the holidays while eating gluten-free doesn’t have to be overwhelming or isolating. With a few thoughtful swaps, you can enjoy the season’s cherished dishes. A bit of planning helps you eat right alongside everyone else. Whether you’re preparing your own gluten-free versions of holiday classics, you are making room for everyone to feel included. By bringing safe dishes to share, you are ensuring enjoyment at the table.
General tips for holiday gatherings
- Plan Ahead: Communicate with hosts about your dietary needs ahead of time, and offer to bring gluten-free dishes.
- Watch Out for Hidden Gluten: Soy sauce, some broths, seasoning mixes, and even candies may contain gluten. Reading labels is key.
- Bring Your Own Utensils: Bringing separate serving utensils ensures your food stays gluten-free and avoids cross-contamination.
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