My Favorite Gluten Free Pastas (and Exactly How I Use Them)

If you’ve been gluten free for any amount of time, you know the struggle of finding good pasta. Not just pasta that’s acceptable, but pasta that actually holds up, has the right texture, and works for specific dishes. Over the years of recipe testing for Leah x Gluten Free, I’ve narrowed down a short list of gluten-free pastas that I truly love (and that my gluten eating family will happily consume) —and most importantly, that I trust for my recipes.

Not all gluten-free pasta is created equal. Some shapes work better for baked dishes, others shine in creamy sauces, and some are best kept simple. Below are my favorite gluten-free pasta brands and shapes, plus exactly how I like to use each one.

How did these pastas pass my test?

• Consistent cooking results

• Minimal breakage when mixing & stirring

• No gritty, cardboard like taste

• Reheats well for leftovers

Shop my gluten free pasta favorites here!

Banza Brown Rice Elbows – Homemade Macaroni & Cheese

This brown rice pasta is newer on the market and already becoming a gluten free community favorite! They even collaborated with the iconic Modern Bread & Bagel to make fried mac & cheese bites, so I knew it had to be good! When it comes to homemade mac and cheese, texture is everything. I want noodles that are sturdy enough to hold up to a thick cheese sauce without turning mushy, and Banza Brown Rice Elbows consistently deliver.

These elbows cook evenly and maintain their shape, which is key for creamy, stovetop mac and cheese or even a baked version. They still taste great the next day, making them a great option for leftovers too. If you’re making a classic gluten-free mac and cheese for family dinner or a holiday side dish, this is the pasta I reach for every time.

Best for:

• Stovetop mac and cheese

• Baked mac and cheese

• Creamy, cheesy sauces

Jovial Spaghetti – Spaghetti & Meatballs

Jovial spaghetti is a staple in my pantry. It has a great bite and a neutral flavor that works beautifully with simple red sauces. This is my go-to for classic spaghetti and meatballs because it cooks up al dente and doesn’t clump or break easily -- it really is so easy to get a perfect cook every time. Whether you’re using homemade meatballs or store-bought, this pasta holds up well under sauce and reheats better than most gluten-free spaghetti options.

Best for:

• Spaghetti and meatballs

• Marinara-based dishes

• Simple olive oil or garlic sauces

Rummo Rigatoni – Baked Ziti

If you’re making a baked pasta dish, you need something sturdy—and Rummo rigatoni absolutely shines here. The ridges help grab sauce, and the pasta holds its shape even after baking. I love using this for baked ziti or any casserole-style pasta dish because it doesn’t turn soft or grainy in the oven. I'll also use it in my Lasagna Soup if I can't find gluten free lasagna noodles. Overall, Rummo has become a favorite for many pasta dishes, especially since it seems to be the most affordable gluten free pasta in grocery stores near me.

Best for:

• Baked ziti

• Pasta bakes

• Hearty meat or vegetable sauces

Jovial Farfalle – Pasta Salad

For pasta salad, shape and texture matter more than you might think. Jovial farfalle (bowties) are perfect because they hold dressing well and stay firm even after chilling -- I swear these noodles do not break!

This is my favorite gluten-free pasta for summer pasta salads (you'll see them featured in my protein pasta salads -- Caesar & Chipotle), with lots of mix-ins like veggies, herbs, cheese, or protein. It doesn’t absorb too much dressing or become soggy in the fridge, which is a huge win for make-ahead meals.

Best for:

• Pasta salad

• Cold pasta dishes

• Picnic and potluck recipes

Bionaturae Penne – Penne alla Vodka

When I want a creamy, restaurant-style pasta dish, I reach for Bionaturae penne. This pasta has a smooth texture that pairs perfectly with rich sauces.

It’s my top choice for penne alla vodka because it holds sauce beautifully without overpowering the dish. The penne stays tender but not mushy, which is crucial for cream-based sauces.

Best for:

• Penne alla vodka

• Creamy tomato sauces

• Dairy-based pasta dishes

Goodles – Favorite Boxed Mac & Cheese

Sometimes you just want something quick, nostalgic, and easy—and Goodles is hands down my favorite boxed gluten-free mac and cheese. It’s creamy, comforting, and actually tastes like classic boxed mac and cheese. Cue the nostalgia! Perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or when you’re craving comfort food without the extra effort.

Best for:

• Quick meals

• Comfort food cravings

• Easy gluten-free dinners

DeLallo Gluten-Free Orzo – Soups, Salads & Sides

Gluten-free orzo can be hard to find, but DeLallo’s version is a pantry must-have. I love using this orzo in soups, cold salads, and simple side dishes. It cooks quickly and works well in lighter recipes where you want something delicate but satisfying.

Best for:

• Soups

• Orzo salads

• Simple side dishes

Final Thoughts

Finding the right gluten-free pasta often comes down to using the right shape for the right recipe. These are the brands and styles I consistently rely on in my own kitchen—and the ones I use when developing recipes for Leah x Gluten Free.

If you’re new to gluten-free cooking or just looking to upgrade your pasta game, starting with these trusted options will make a huge difference in both flavor and texture.

Shop my gluten free pasta favorites here!

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