How to Entertain Gluten-Free Guests with Ease (and Flavor!)

Hosting friends and family is one of life’s greatest joys—but when a guest is gluten-free, it can feel a little intimidating at first. It’s hard to know where to begin and what you can and can’t include on your dinner menu. Don’t worry! With a few simple swaps and a little planning, you can serve a meal that’s inclusive, delicious, and stress-free. Whether it’s a small get-together, or a big Thanksgiving feast, these tips (and a simple recipe) will help you entertain with confidence.

Step 1. Start with Smart Planning

Before your event, ask your gluten-free guest (or guests) a few questions to understand their needs. Some people are sensitive to even trace amounts of gluten, while others can handle cross-contact as long as the main ingredients are gluten-free. Most guests will appreciate that you asked rather than assumed!

Once you know their comfort level, review your planned menu and identify where gluten might sneak in. Think sauces, dressings, marinades, and seasonings—these can all contain hidden gluten. Check labels or opt for simple, whole ingredients to keep things safe and easy. You can even send your guest a quick message with what you’re planning to make so they can confirm it works for them or offer suggestions.

Step 2. Focus on Naturally Gluten-Free Foods

Fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and most dairy products are naturally gluten-free. Build your menu around these staples, and add flavor with herbs, spices, and safe sauces. Think roasted vegetables, hearty salads, and grilled proteins—all easy and naturally free of gluten. Try out this simple and delicious Grilled Romaine with Vegan Caesar Dressing recipe on our website. Made with our Vegan Oat Bread Crumbs, it’s the perfect appetizer to start the night off right. 

Step 3. Make Simple Gluten-Free Swaps

You don’t have to reinvent your favorite recipes—just make a few easy substitutions! And lucky for you, we are your one-stop shop for all things allergen-free that taste like the real thing.

• Swap in our gluten-free Dinner Rolls for a warm, soft side that everyone will enjoy (and the best part is no one will guess they’re gluten-free!).

• Add crunch and flavor to salads or soups with our Italian Herb Croutons.

• Use our Italian Herb Bread Crumbs for casseroles, meatballs, or crispy toppings.

These swaps let you serve familiar, crowd-pleasing dishes without the worry. Here’s a quick and cozy side dish that’s perfect for entertaining:

Easy Gluten-Free Herb Stuffing

Ingredients:

• 1 bag Italian Herb Croutons (or 4 cups cubed Vegan Oat Bread)

• 3 tbsp butter (or vegan butter)

• 1 cup diced onion

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 2 cups gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp dried sage

• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onion and celery until soft.

3. Stir in herbs, salt, and pepper.

4. In a large bowl, combine croutons with the sautéed mixture. Add broth gradually until the bread is moist but not soggy.

5. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and fragrant.

Serve warm and enjoy a side dish that everyone—gluten-free or not—will love!

Step 4. Avoid Cross-Contamination

Even a crumb of gluten can cause a reaction for some people with celiac disease. Keep gluten-free foods separate from gluten-containing items, use clean utensils and cutting boards, and wash your hands frequently if you’re serving both. Consider labeling dishes so everyone knows what’s gluten-free. A small tag or place card can go a long way toward helping guests relax and enjoy the meal. 

Step 5. Keep Dessert Simple

Fruit-based desserts, flourless chocolate cakes, or homemade puddings are easy gluten-free crowd-pleasers. These Vegan Pumpkin Pie Squares are the perfect Thanksgiving sweet treat, and they’re made with our gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Or, if you want to keep things simple, pair your favorite ice cream with our Cinnamon Crisps for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Entertaining gluten-free guests doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few smart swaps, attention to detail, and the help of Outside the Breadbox, you can serve a meal that feels just as welcoming and delicious as any other. Because the best gatherings aren’t about what’s missing—they’re about sharing good food and good company. Stock up for your gluten-free holidays here: https://bit.ly/3X0wJt1