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    Gluten Free Enchilada Skillet

    These easy gluten free skillet enchiladas are made with ground beef and lots of cheese. I prefer to use my cast iron skillet, but any casserole pan will work. This recipe has the best homemade enchilada sauce!

    Skillet Enchiladas are the ultimate one pan comfort food, bringing together the bold flavors of a traditional enchilada recipe in a faster, easier format.

    Perfect for busy nights, this easy weeknight dinner skips the rolling and filling while still delivering all the cheesy beef enchilada goodness you love. This recipe uses rich, savory ground beef, homemade enchilada sauce, and melty cheese all together in one sizzling skillet.

    a cast iron skillet of gluten free enchilada skillet next to a bowl of sour cream

    While the meat, garlic and onions are cooking I make the enchilada sauce in my blender. It's so easy! You just put all of the ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Then, when the meat is done add the sauce and stir together.

    Since you are making your own sauce you can control the heat level of this dish. I like my food moderately spicy and that's how I made this recipe, but if you prefer more or less spice you can add more or less chipotle chilis to your sauce.

    If you're looking for more gluten free Mexican inspired recipes try my Gluten Free Taco Casserole, my Gluten Free Walking Taco Casserole, Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole, or my Instant Pot Mexican Style Beef & Rice.

    You can find all of my meal recipes here: Gluten Free Meal Recipes

    two white plates with servings of gluten free enchilada skillet next to a bowl of sour cream
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Ground Beef
    • Yellow Onion
    • Minced Garlic
    • Gluten Free Corn Tortillas
    • Monterey Jack Cheese
    • Cheddar Cheese
    • Chicken Broth
    • Tomato Sauce
    • Chipotle Chilis in Adobo Sauce
    • Chili Powder
    • Ground Cumin
    • Garlic Powder
    • Onion Powder
    • Sea Salt
    • Ground Black Pepper

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.

    In the cast iron skillet (or whatever oven safe skillet you cook with) add the ground beef. Cook until there is only a little pink remaining. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are just starting to become translucent. Remove from heat.

    In your blender make the enchilada sauce by adding the chicken broth, tomato sauce, chipotle chilis with sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Blend until the ingredients are combined.

    Add the sauce to the meat mixture and stir together.

    Remove a little over half the meat and sauce mixture from the pan.

    In the pan over the remaining meat mixture layer five corn tortillas and half of the cheese. Add all but a cup of the remaining meat mixture to the pan. Then layer with five corn tortillas and the other half of the cheese reserving some cheese for the topping.

    Add the last of the meat mixture and the remaining cheese to the top of the pan.

    Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. The cheese will be melted and the mixture will be boiling slightly.

    Supplies

    Storage

    After the skillet enchiladas have cooled completely store them in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Healthy Mexican Street Corn Salad
    • Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole
    • Gluten Free Walking Taco Casserole
    • Gluten Free Taco Casserole

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Gluten Free Enchilada Skillet


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    5 from 1 review

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: 6 servings 1x
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    These easy gluten free skillet enchiladas are made with ground beef and lots of cheese. I prefer to use my cast iron skillet, but any casserole pan will work. This recipe has the best homemade enchilada sauce! 


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 1 ½ pounds Ground Beef
    • 1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped
    • 2 Tablespoons Minced Garlic
      Gluten Free Homemade Enchilada Sauce Recipe
    • 10 - 6 inch Gluten Free Corn Tortillas
    • 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
    • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded


    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.

    In the cast iron skillet (or whatever oven safe skillet you cook with) add the ground beef. Cook until there is only a little pink remaining. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are just starting to become translucent. Remove from heat.

    In your blender make the enchilada sauce by adding the chicken broth, tomato sauce, chipotle chilis with sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Blend until the ingredients are combined.

    Add the sauce to the meat mixture and stir together.

    Remove a little over half the meat and sauce mixture from the pan.

    In the pan over the remaining meat mixture layer five corn tortillas and half of the cheese. Add all but a cup of the remaining meat mixture to the pan. Then layer with five corn tortillas and the other half of the cheese reserving some cheese for the topping.

    Add the last of the meat mixture and the remaining cheese to the top of the pan.

    Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. The cheese will be melted and the mixture will be boiling slightly.

    Notes

    I like to use my cast iron skillet for this recipe. You can use whatever pan you have available and then use a oven safe 9x13 casserole pan to layer the enchiladas into.

    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 10 minutes
    • Category: Dinner
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: Gluten Free, Mexican

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    Top Tip

    To reheat place a serving on a plate and then cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30 second intervals until the enchiladas are hot.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are corn enchiladas gluten free?

    As long as the packaging on the corn enchiladas is marked gluten free you should be safe. Don't just assume because they are supposed to be corn enchiladas that they didn't either add flour with gluten or process them in the same facility with gluten.
    It's always important to check the packaging to make sure it states they are actually gluten free corn tortillas!

    How do I make gluten free enchiladas?

    Making gluten free enchiladas is really easy! It's about sourcing ingredients that are marked gluten free first and then putting this delicious dish together.
    Fry your hamburger with the onion and garlic until it's done. As you are frying the hamburger you can add the broth, tomato sauce, chilis and spices to your blender to make the sauce.
    Add the sauce to your cooked burger mixture and stir together. Next layer the burger mixture, tortillas and shredded cheese into your skillet (or casserole dish). Repeat this step and then bake for 10 minutes at 400 degrees.

    Gluten Free Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

    This easy recipe for gluten free cheesy tator tot casserole is like having a delicious cheeseburger! I use hamburger to make this the best casserole without cream soup. If you are looking for an easy way to use ground beef this delicious casserole is perfect.

    a cast iron pan of gluten free cheesy tater tot casserole next to two white plates of casserole

    This casserole is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With ground beef as the base, it's a great dinner recipe that's filling and satisfying.

    The cheesy topping and crispy tater tots create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free ground beef recipe, a cozy comfort food option, or an easy dinner to feed a crowd, this gluten-free tater tot casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

    If you are looking for more dinner recipes try my Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole, my Gluten Free Cowboy Baked Beans, my Gluten Free Walking Taco Casserole or my Gluten Free One Pot Hamburger Helper Copycat.

    You can find all of my meal recipes here: Gluten Free Meal Recipes

    two white plates of gluten free cheesy tater tot casserole
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Ground Beef
    • Yellow Onion
    • Tomato Paste
    • Diced Tomatoes
    • Beef Broth
    • Spicy Brown Mustard
    • Dried Mustard
    • Worcestershire Sauce
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • Cheddar Cheese
    • Monterey Jack Cheese
    • Tater Tots

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.

    In your cast iron or regular skillet cook the ground beef until only a little pink remains. Add the chopped onion and cook until the onion is just starting to become translucent.

    Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, spicy brown mustard, dried mustard, worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir all the ingredients together until they are blended.

    Remove the skillet from heat and place the frozen tater tots on top in an even layer.

    Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the tater tot layer.

    Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes.

    Supplies

    Storage

    Store the leftovers in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Gluten Free Enchilada Skillet
    • Gluten Free Sloppy Joe Casserole
    • Gluten Free Taco Casserole
    • Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
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    Gluten Free Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    4 from 1 review

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 45 minutes
    • Yield: 7 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    This easy recipe for gluten free cheesy tator tot casserole is like having a delicious cheeseburger! I use hamburger to make this the best casserole without cream soup. If you are looking for an easy way to use ground beef this delicious casserole is perfect.


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 1 ½ pounds Ground Beef
    • 1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped
    • 1 - 6 ounce can Tomato Paste
    • 1 - 14.5 ounce can Diced Tomatoes
    • ½ cup Beef Broth
    • 1 Tbsp. Spicy Brown Mustard
    • ½ tsp. Dried Mustard
    • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce
    • 1 ½ tsp. Sea Salt
    • 1 tsp. Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
    • 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese, shredded
    • 1 - 32 ounce bag Tater Tots

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.

    In your cast iron or regular skillet cook the ground beef until only a little pink remains. Add the chopped onion and cook until the onion is just starting to become translucent.

    Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, spicy brown mustard, dried mustard, worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir all the ingredients together until they are blended.

    Remove the skillet from heat and place the frozen tater tots on top in an even layer.

    Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the tater tot layer.

    Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes.

    Notes

    If you don't have a cast iron skillet or oven proof skillet, pour the beef mixture into a 9x13 baking dish and then cover with tater tots and cheese.

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Dinner
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: Gluten Free

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    Top Tip

    Since going gluten free I don't eat a lot of burgers with buns. We don't live in an area that they are usually available and to be honest I just don't love gluten free buns. So, this casserole tasting like a delicious cheeseburger is perfect.

    This casserole goes together really quickly in one pan. If you don't have a skillet you can use in the oven it's easy to transfer the cooked ground beef mixture to a 9x13 baking dish. Either chose leaves you with a quick and delicious meal!

    Didn't find the answer you're looking for?

    Ask AI to answer based on this recipe:

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is tater tot casserole gluten free?

    Yes! This casserole is made gluten free by using tater tots that are gluten free. Most tater tots should automatically be gluten free, but that doesn't mean they aren't processed with other items that have gluten. Always read your labels and make sure your tater tots are gluten free!

    Can tater tot casserole be frozen?

    Yes. This casserole makes a great freezer meal. Simply put the dish together like you are going to bake it and freeze it instead. This recipe would be perfect to double and make one meal for dinner and one meal to freeze for later.

    Can this casserole be made ahead of time?

    Yes. You could cook the ground beef, onion, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, broth, mustards, worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper ahead of time. Then layer on the tater tots and cheese. Instead of placing the finished casserole in the oven you could let cool and then cover and refrigerate to cook the next night.

    Fearless Feasting: Easy Gluten Free Dinner Recipes for Swifties

    These easy gluten free dinner recipes are fan favorites! This gluten free comfort food is best prepared while listening to your favorite Taylor Swift album. These quick meal recipes would be perfect to serve at your next Swiftie gathering too.

    Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole in a 9x13 baking dish is one of my favorite gluten free dinner recipes.

    My favorite Taylor Swift song changes with my mood, but lately I've been loving Fortnight and of course Fearless (Taylor's Version). Let me know in the comments what your favorite Taylor Swift song is.

    Fearless Feasting: Easy Gluten Free Dinner Recipes for Swifties is a fun and flavorful tribute to fans of Taylor Swift who want to enjoy a cozy, stylish, and inclusive meal experience.

    Whether you're hosting a Taylor Swift dinner party, planning a Swiftie dinner night, or just looking for Taylor Swift-inspired food recipes to brighten your evening, this collection brings together comforting, creative, and accessible meals that suit both casual nights in and themed celebrations.

    Designed with flavor and fun in mind, the recipes are also perfect for those managing gluten sensitivity or celiac, making them both festive and inclusive.

    If you are looking for side dishes to go with these gluten free dinner recipes try my Chopped Wedge Layer Salad, my Black Beans and Corn Salad, my Pineapple Coleslaw or my Cucumber Salad with Vinegar Dressing.

    You can find all of my dinner recipes here: Gluten Free Meal Recipes

    Easy Gluten Free Dinner Recipes for Swifties

    Easy Ground Beef Nacho Casserole

    This easy ground beef nacho casserole recipe is perfect for weeknight meals. The recipe uses ground beef, tortilla chips and cheese to create a dinner the whole family will love. This nacho bake is ready to serve in under 30 minutes!

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Enchilada Skillet

    These easy gluten free skillet enchiladas are made with ground beef and lots of cheese. I prefer to use my cast iron skillet, but any casserole pan will work. This recipe has the best homemade enchilada sauce!

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

    This easy recipe for gluten free cheesy tator tot casserole is like having a delicious cheeseburger! I use hamburger to make this the best casserole without cream soup. If you are looking for an easy way to use ground beef this delicious casserole is perfect.

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Slow Cooker Hawaiin Meatballs

    This easy recipe for gluten free slow cooker Hawaiin meatballs is perfect for barbecues! The meatballs are made with ground beef, bbq sauce, and pineapple in your crockpot. They are sweet, tangy and perfect served over rice or as an appetizer.

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Walking Taco Casserole

    This quick recipe for gluten free walking taco casserole is made with ground beef, cheddar cheese and cream cheese. This is the best one pot Mexican casserole and is perfect for dinner. It is similar to a taco pie or taco bake and is topped with gluten free tortilla chips.

    Get The Recipe

    Easy Gluten Free Tamale Pie

    This easy gluten free tamale pie recipe is the perfect ground beef casserole for weeknight dinners! It is a one pan comfort food meal made in a cast iron skillet. The seasoned beef mixture is topped with delicious homemade cornbread.

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Sloppy Joe Casserole

    This easy recipe for gluten free sloppy joe casserole is made with pasta and hamburger. This is the best, homemade deep dish dinner and is super cheesy! I combine macaroni noodles and ground beef then it all gets baked. It is super simple!

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Taco Casserole

    This easy recipe for gluten free taco casserole is layered with tortillas and ground beef. After assembling you bake this healthy dinner.

    Get The Recipe

    Instant Pot Beef and Vegetable Soup

    This healthy, gluten free beef and vegetable soup in made in the Instant Pot. This is the best recipe for a quick and hearty meal! Using frozen vegetables it's easy and inexpensive to make this soup.

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy

    This easy recipe for gluten free salisbury steak with mushroom gravy is made with ground beef. It's a simple homemade meal that is low carb and keto friendly. This gravy recipe is also perfect served with mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner.

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese

    This easy recipe for gluten free instant pot chili mac and cheese is perfect for weeknight dinners. It's a cheap and simple homemade meal with ground beef, beans and pasta. This healthy instant pot pasta recipe is sure to become your families new favorite supper!

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free One Pot Hamburger Helper Copycat

    This easy, homemade gluten free one pot hamburber helper copycat recipe is perfect for weeknight meals! It uses ground beef, gluten free macaroni noodles and cheese. This one skillet burger casserole is so simple and quick for dinner.

    Get The Recipe

    Gluten Free Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole

    This easy recipe for gluten free chicken parmesan pasta casserole is a perfect weeknight meal. It's oven baked with gluten free penne pasta and marinara sauce. This gluten free pasta recipes is cheesy and delicious!

    Get The Recipe

    Supplies

    These are some of my favorite supplies for making delicious gluten free dinners recipes. Having the right kitchen tools can really help cut down on prep time and makes cooking easier.


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Classic Margarita Mocktail
    • Gluten Free Vanilla Cake
    • Strawberry Daiquiri Mocktails
    • Gluten Free Triple Chocolate Brownies

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 25% off your first order!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does gluten stay on wooden spoons?

    Since wood has fibers and can hold small particles of leftover food even after the wooden spoon is washed gluten can stay on the spoon. If you don't have a strictly gluten free kitchen it would be best to use stainless steel or coasted spoons.

    Gluten Free Sloppy Joe Casserole

    This easy recipe for gluten free sloppy joe casserole is made with pasta and hamburger. This is the best, homemade deep dish dinner and is super cheesy! I combine macaroni noodles and ground beef then it all gets baked. It is super simple!

    a cast iron skillet of gluten free sloppy joe casserole next to two white plates of casserole and a small bowl of salt and a small bowl of black pepper

    This Gluten-Free Sloppy Joe Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of a sloppy joe with the comforting texture of a casserole.

    Made with ground beef, this recipe offers a quick and easy weeknight dinner option that is both satisfying and gluten-free.

    It is perfect for families looking for a filling meal that accommodates dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor. With simple steps, this casserole is a great way to enjoy a familiar favorite in a new form.

    I know there are several brands of gluten free macaroni noodles to choose from, but I really like the Great Value brand from Walmart. They are inexpensive, hold together well and taste good. All wins!

    If you are looking for more easy beef recipes try: 10 Easy Gluten Free Beef Recipes

    a cast iron skillet of gluten free sloppy joe casserole next to two white plates of casserole and a small bowl of salt and a small bowl of black pepper
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Gluten Free Elbow Pasta
    • Ground Beef
    • Yellow Onion
    • Carrots
    • Minced Garlic
    • Tomato Paste
    • Diced Tomatoes
    • Tomato Sauce
    • Water
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • Worcestershire Sauce
    • Spicy Brown Mustard
    • Dried Mustard
    • Brown Sugar
    • Cheddar Cheese

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.

    Heat a pot of water to boiling and cook the elbow macaroni noodles. I like to eliminate 2-3 minutes from the packages cooking time so the noodles are el dente when I put them in the casserole. They will continue to cook when you bake the casserole.

    In a cast iron skillet or frying pan cook the carrots for 5-6 minutes to soften them. Poor them into a bowl and reserve.

    In the skillet cook the ground beef until most of the pink is gone. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is just starting to become translucent. Add the carrots to this mixture.

    With the beef mixture on medium low heat add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, worcestershire sauce, spicy brown mustard, dried mustard, brown sugar and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir and cook until simmering.

    If you are using a frying pan that is not oven proof you will need to pour the mixture into a 9x13 baking dish.

    Add the macaroni noodles to the beef mixture and stir them in. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

    Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes.

    Let cool slightly and then serve.

    Supplies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you freeze gluten free sloppy joe casserole?

    Yes! This recipe is perfect for a freezer meal. You can freeze it before you put it in the oven to melt the cheese. So, make the entire casserole in your freezer container (I like to buy these at the dollar store), cover it tightly and freeze for up to a month.

    It's perfect to make two of these at the same time so you have one for dinner and one for a quick freezer meal later. You can later take the dish out of the freezer and defrost in your fridge to cook it that night or the next day.

    What goes well with gluten free sloppy joe casserole?

    I love a salad with this casserole. Just a simple iceberg wedge salad with ranch or my recipe for Seven Layer Salad would be perfect too. You could also purchase a pre-made bag salad to make this dinner even easier.

    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Gluten Free Slow Cooker Meatloaf
    • Gluten Free Taco Pasta Bake
    • 10 Easy Gluten Free Beef Recipes
    • Gluten Free Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!


    Print
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    Gluten Free Sloppy Joe Casserole


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 45 minutes
    • Yield: 7 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    This easy recipe for gluten free sloppy joe casserole is made with pasta and hamburger. This is the best, homemade deep dish dinner and is super cheesy! I combine macaroni noodles and ground beef then it all gets baked. It is super simple!


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 8 ounces Gluten Free Elbow Pasta
    • 1 ½ pounds Ground Beef
    • 1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped
    • 1 cup Carrots, chopped
    • 1 Tbsp. Minced Garlic
    • 1 - 6 ounce can Tomato Paste
    • 1 - 14.5 ounce can Diced Tomatoes
    • 1 - 15 ounce can Tomato Sauce
    • ⅓ cup Water
    • 2 tsp. Sea Salt
    • 1 tsp. Coarse Ground Black Pepper
    • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce
    • 2 Tbsp. Spicy Brown Mustard
    • ½ tsp. Dried Mustard
    • 1 Tbsp. Brown Sugar
    • 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded

    Instructions

    Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.

    Heat a pot of water to boiling and cook the elbow macaroni noodles. I like to eliminate 2-3 minutes from the packages cooking time so the noodles are el dente when I put them in the casserole. They will continue to cook when you bake the casserole.

    In a cast iron skillet or frying pan cook the carrots for 5-6 minutes to soften them. Poor them into a bowl and reserve.

    In the skillet cook the ground beef until most of the pink is gone. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is just starting to become translucent. Add the carrots to this mixture.

    With the beef mixture on medium low heat add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, salt, pepper, worcestershire sauce, spicy brown mustard, dried mustard, brown sugar and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir and cook until simmering.

    If you are using a frying pan that is not oven proof you will need to pour the mixture into a 9x13 baking dish.

    Add the macaroni noodles to the beef mixture and stir them in. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.

    Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes.

    Let cool slightly and then serve.

    • Prep Time: 25 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: Casserole
    • Method: Baking
    • Cuisine: Gluten Free

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    Top Tip

    This is one of those great dinner for nights I forget to make anything. I can't be the only one that thinks there is leftovers or gets so consumed in their day that suddenly it's almost dinner time and there is nothing to eat. Right?!

    The Best Old Fashioned Chicken Salad

    This easy old fashioned chicken salad is the classic creamy chicken salad recipe you are going to want to keep on hand all week long. Tender shredded chicken breast, crisp celery, and finely diced green onion get tossed in a simple homemade mayo dressing seasoned with white vinegar, dried dill, and dried tarragon for a rich and flavorful chicken salad that tastes like something your grandmother used to make. Made without grapes and completely gluten free, keto, and low carb friendly, this is the kind of easy make ahead lunch recipe that works for everything from gluten free sandwiches and wraps to lettuce cups, salad bowls, and gluten free crackers.

    Cook the chicken in the Instant Pot and shred it right in your stand mixer and the whole thing comes together in no time.

    a white bowl of the best old fashioned chicken salad on top of baby spinach and arugula.

    What sets this old fashioned chicken salad apart from every other version out there is the combination of dried dill and dried tarragon in the dressing. That pairing gives the creamy mayo dressing a subtle herby depth of flavor that makes every single bite taste complex and special without requiring any complicated ingredients or techniques.

    This is the gluten free chicken salad recipe I make every single week for meal prep because it keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for three to five days and actually gets better the longer it sits as the flavors meld together overnight.

    Whether you are looking for a high protein gluten free lunch idea, a keto chicken salad for meal prep, or just the best old fashioned chicken salad recipe that the whole family will love, this is the one you have been looking for.

    If you are looking for more easy chicken recipes try my Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs, my Air Fryer Chicken Bites, my One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken or my Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs.

    You can find all of my salad recipes here: Gluten Free Salad Recipes

    a white bowl of the best old fashioned chicken salad on top of baby spinach and arugula.
    [feast_advanced_jump_to]

    Ingredients

    • Chicken Breasts
    • Chicken Broth
    • Celery
    • Green Onions
    • Mayonnaise
    • White Vinegar
    • Dried Dill Weed
    • Dried Tarragon
    • Sea Salt
    • Coarse Ground Black Pepper

    Instructions

    Add the chicken breasts and chicken broth to the bowl of your instant pot. Cook on manual for 8 minutes and let the steam release naturally. If you don't have an instant pot you can boil the chicken breasts in water on the stovetop until they are cooked completely through.

    Add the cooked chicken breasts to the bowl of your stand mixer and beat until shredded. Alternatively you can use forks to shred the chicken, but the mixer is so fast and easy. Let the chicken cool slightly.

    Add the shredded chicken, celery and green onions to a mixing bowl.

    In a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, dill weed, tarragon, salt and pepper.

    Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.

    Serve in a gluten free sandwich, on a gluten free wrap or over a bed of salad.

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    The Best Old Fashioned Chicken Salad


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    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 28 minutes
    • Yield: 6 servings 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
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    Description

    This easy old fashioned chicken salad is a classic creamy chicken salad made with shredded chicken breast, crisp celery, green onion, and a simple homemade mayo dressing seasoned with dried dill and tarragon. Made without grapes and completely gluten free, keto, and low carb friendly, this is the best make ahead chicken salad recipe for lunches all week long!


    Ingredients

    Scale
    • 3 large Chicken Breast, cooked and shredded
    • 1 cup Chicken Broth
    • 3 stalks Celery, finely diced
    • 3 Green Onions, finely diced
    • 1 cup Mayonnaise
    • 1 Tbsp White Vinegar
    • ½ tsp Dried Dill Weed
    • 1 tsp Dried Tarragon
    • ½ tsp Sea Salt
    • ¼ tsp Coarse Ground Black Pepper

    Instructions

    Add the chicken breasts and chicken broth to the bowl of your instant pot. Cook on manual for 8 minutes and let the steam release naturally. If you don't have an instant pot you can boil the chicken breasts in water on the stovetop until they are cooked completely through.

    Add the cooked chicken breasts to the bowl of your stand mixer and beat until shredded. Alternatively you can use forks to shred the chicken, but the mixer is so fast and easy. Let the chicken cool slightly.

    Add the shredded chicken, celery and green onions to a mixing bowl.

    In a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, dill weed, tarragon, salt and pepper.

    Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.

    Serve in a gluten free sandwich, on a gluten free wrap or over a bed of salad.

    If you made this recipe please leave a star rating and comment below. It helps other readers find this recipe and means so much to me.

    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 8 minutes
    • Category: Chicken
    • Method: Instant Pot
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

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    If you make this Old Fashioned Chicken Salad I would love to hear what you think! Leave a star rating and a comment below and let me know how you served it.

    Don't forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest boards so you can find it again every meal prep Sunday!

    Storage

    Store this old fashioned chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. Because this recipe is made with mayonnaise it is important to keep it properly refrigerated at all times and never leave it sitting out at room temperature for more than two hours. This is especially important if you are serving it at an outdoor gathering or summer cookout where temperatures can cause mayonnaise based salads to spoil quickly.

    Give the salad a good stir before each serving as the dressing may settle slightly as it sits. If the salad seems a little dry after a day or two in the refrigerator stir in a small spoonful of extra mayonnaise to freshen up the dressing before serving.

    This chicken salad is not suitable for freezing as the mayonnaise dressing will separate and the texture of the chicken and celery will become watery and unpleasant once thawed.

    Top Tip

    Make the chicken salad the night before you plan to serve it and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. This is not just a time saving tip it genuinely makes the chicken salad taste significantly better.

    As the salad sits overnight the dried dill and tarragon rehydrate and bloom in the mayo dressing and the flavors meld together into a much more cohesive and deeply flavored chicken salad than you would get if you served it immediately after mixing.

    Give it a good stir before serving and taste for seasoning as you may want to add a small pinch of salt or a tiny splash of white vinegar to brighten everything back up after chilling. The difference between freshly made and overnight chicken salad is remarkable and worth the extra patience every single time.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best way to cook chicken for chicken salad?

    The Instant Pot is my favorite method for cooking chicken for this recipe because it produces the most tender and juicy shredded chicken in just 8 minutes with no babysitting required. Simply add the chicken breasts and chicken broth to the Instant Pot, cook on manual for 8 minutes, and let the steam release naturally. If you do not have an Instant Pot you can boil the chicken breasts in water or broth on the stovetop until cooked completely through, about 15 to 20 minutes depending on the size of the breasts. Rotisserie chicken from the grocery store is also a wonderful shortcut that saves significant time and still produces a delicious chicken salad.

    How do I shred chicken quickly for chicken salad?

    The easiest and fastest way to shred cooked chicken is right in your stand mixer. Simply add the warm cooked chicken breasts to the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and mix on low speed for about 20 to 30 seconds until the chicken is perfectly shredded. This method shreds the chicken much more evenly and quickly than pulling it apart by hand and takes just seconds. Make sure the chicken is still warm when you shred it as cold chicken does not shred as easily or as evenly.

    Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

    Yes! Canned chicken is a convenient shortcut for this recipe when you do not have time to cook fresh chicken breasts. Drain the canned chicken very thoroughly before adding it to the bowl with the celery and green onion. Keep in mind that canned chicken has a softer texture than freshly cooked and shredded chicken so the finished salad will have a slightly different consistency. For the best flavor and texture fresh cooked and shredded chicken is always the preferred option but canned chicken works well in a pinch.

    Can I make this chicken salad without tarragon?

    You can but the dried tarragon is actually the secret ingredient that makes this old fashioned chicken salad taste so special and different from every other version. It adds a subtle herby depth of flavor that elevates the entire dressing without being overpowering or obviously identifiable. If you absolutely cannot find dried tarragon you can substitute a small amount of dried thyme or dried Italian seasoning as a mild alternative. I strongly recommend tracking down the tarragon though because it makes a genuinely noticeable difference in the finished recipe.

    What do you serve with old fashioned chicken salad?

    This chicken salad is incredibly versatile and works beautifully in so many different ways. I love serving it over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and satisfying gluten free lunch. It is also wonderful on gluten free crackers for a quick and easy snack or appetizer, in a gluten free wrap or sandwich, or stuffed into lettuce cups for a low carb and keto friendly option. For a summer gathering you can serve it as a dip with gluten free crackers and vegetables on a snack board which always goes over really well with a crowd.

    Is this chicken salad keto and low carb friendly?

    Yes! This old fashioned chicken salad is completely keto and low carb friendly. It is made without grapes, dried fruit, or any added sugars which means the carb count stays very low. The combination of shredded chicken breast, mayonnaise, celery, and green onion keeps this recipe high in protein and healthy fats while staying low in carbohydrates. Serve it in lettuce cups or over salad greens for a completely keto and low carb meal that is also gluten free and incredibly satisfying.

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    Welcome! I'm Elaine

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