Whether you want to eat delicious pasta on its own or add a delectable side to your favorite dish, shell pasta is a versatile meal that you wouldn’t want to miss.
However, this might be something someone with Celiac cannot enjoy due to worries that it might contain gluten.
While there are numerous pasta brands out there, knowing which ones are gluten-free and which of those will suit you the most can be a tough, time-consuming process.
There’s no need to worry though, because we have listed for you the best gluten-free products when it comes to taste, cost-effectiveness, healthy ingredients, and customer reviews.
Difference Between Regular Shell Pasta and Gluten-free Shell Pasta
Regular shell pasta is made from wheat flour or semolina and therefore contains that pesky gluten that you must avoid. In addition to that most products also tend to contain eggs, dairy, and a few other allergens that could be concerning as well.
Gluten-free shell pasta is made from alternatives like rice flour, chickpeas, tapioca, millet flour, and lentils so they do not contain gluten. Furthermore, most products also tend to avoid other potential allergens so that the majority of the customers can consume them.
Nutritionally both tend to be quite similar with regular shell pasta containing slightly more carbohydrates and dietary fiber.
However, gluten-free products are also able to achieve a perfect blend of ingredients such that they are not only rich in fiber and other healthy ingredients but have a very similar taste and texture that you won’t be able to tell that they’re gluten-free.
Best Gluten-Free Shell Pasta
1. Jovial Gluten-Free Shells
First on this list is a product that in addition to being gluten-free, is also free from a wide range of allergens and is kosher making it a perfect product for everyone to consume without any worries.
This product packs that familiar taste and texture that you are sure to enjoy. It cooks firm and has an appetizing flavor that tastes great with all types of sauces and toppings.
There are 6 servings per container with each serving containing 210 calories, 2 grams of total fat with no saturated or trans-fat, no cholesterol, 0 mg of sodium, 44 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of dietary fiber, and 5 grams of protein.
These are gluten-free, free from the top 8 allergens, non-GMO, kosher, glyphosate residue-free, and organic.
Pros:
- Kosher
- The majority of the customers enjoyed the taste and quality
- No saturated fat, trans-fat, cholesterol, or sodium
Cons:
- Some customers complained that the product arrived damaged on delivery
- Slightly expensive
Ingredients: Organic brown rice flour, water
Price: $7.99 for a 12 oz pack on Amazon
2. Tinkyada Brown Rice Pasta Grand Shell
If you’re looking for larger shells that have a good consistent texture and are also kosher then this product is for you. It also comes with cooking instructions on the container making them easy and convenient to use.
Couple this with your favorite sauce and you will have yourself a greatly satisfying meal that you will want to enjoy again.
There are 4.5 servings per container. Every serving contains 200 calories, 2 grams of total fat with 0 grams of saturated and trans-fat, 0.5 grams each of mono and poly-unsaturated fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 0 mg of sodium, 85 mg of potassium, 41 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of dietary fiber, and 4 grams of protein.
This product is kosher, gluten-free, and made in a dedicated rice pasta facility.
Pros:
- Low in saturated fat, trans-fat, and cholesterol
- Contains beneficial mono and poly-unsaturated fat
- No sodium
Cons:
- Relatively low in dietary fiber compared to other options
- Some customers complained that the product was crushed and unusable on delivery
- Expensive
Ingredients: Brown Rice, Rice Bran, Water
Price: $9.99 for an 8 oz pack on Amazon
3. Banza Shells Made from Chickpeas
This is another tasty product having that rich chickpea flavor that will not only provide you with a very likable taste but also a high amount of protein.
The product is also kosher and vegan so everyone can join in on the fun. Just simply follow the directions on the back and you will have a nutritious, healthy, and flavorful meal in just about 10 minutes that you will thoroughly enjoy.
Per container, there are 4 servings. Every serving provides 190 calories, 3 grams of total fat with 0 grams of saturated and trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 20 mg of sodium, 35 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of dietary fiber, and 11 grams of protein.
This product is gluten-free, vegan, low-carb, kosher, non-GMO, and high in protein.
Pros:
- Higher amount of protein compared to other options
- Vegan
- Kosher
Cons:
- Some customers didn’t like the texture, they complained it became too mushy on cooking
- The chickpea flavor might not be liked by everyone
Ingredients: Chickpeas, pea starch, tapioca, xanthan gum
Price: $26.99 for a pack of six 8 oz containers on Amazon
4. Ancient Harvest Shells Pasta
This pasta is made from the wonderful blend of corn and quinoa that provides you with a hearty plant-based pasta that in addition to being gluten-free, also packs the taste and texture of traditional, flour-based pasta.
You can get creative and mix them with your favorite cheeses, chickpeas, garlic, or tomato sauce to further enhance your experience. A versatile convenient pasta that you cannot go wrong with.
There are about 4 servings per container with each providing 200 calories, 2 grams of total fat with 0 grams of saturated and trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 0 mg of sodium, 42 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of dietary fiber, and 4 grams of protein.
This product is gluten-free, non-GMO, and kosher.
Pros:
- Kosher
- No saturated fat, trans-fat, cholesterol, or sodium
- Most customers were satisfied with the taste
Cons:
- Contains corn
- Some complained that the texture was too rubbery
- Slightly expensive
Ingredients: Organic Corn Flour, Organic Brown Rice Flour, Organic Quinoa Flour
Price: $7.38 for an 8 oz pack on Amazon
5. Big Green Organic Food – Millet Shell
This organic pasta carries the benefits of millet while still maintaining a texture that is very similar to traditional shell pasta. If you’re vegan, then this product is exactly what you’re looking for.
It also comes with easy-to-follow cooking instructions at the back allowing you to make a flavorsome meal in just 10 minutes. Don’t forget to add your favorite sauces and toppings to greatly amplify the experience.
There are 4 servings per container with every serving consisting of 200 calories, 2 grams of total fat with no saturated or trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 0 mg of sodium, 36 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of dietary fiber, and 6 grams of protein.
This product is gluten-free, non-GMO, lectin-free, preservative-free, organic, and vegan.
Pros:
- Free from saturated fat, trans-fat, cholesterol, and sodium
- Relatively low in carbohydrates
- Vegan
Cons:
- Made from organic millet flour so the taste might be slightly different from other pastas
- Slightly expensive
Ingredients: Organic millet flour
Price: $6.99 for one 8.8 oz pack on Amazon
Also Check Out: G.F. Rotini Pasta Brands
6. Cybele’s Gluten-Free Shells
Are you looking for pasta that contains a large amount of protein for your muscles while still being plant-based and gluten-free? You don’t need to look any further because this product will meet all your requirements.
This product is also free from most allergens making it safe and enjoyable for everyone. The pasta has a hearty, clean flavor that pairs well with your favorite sauces.
Each container packs 4 servings. Each serving provides 200 calories, 1 gram of total fat with no saturated or trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 10 mg of sodium, 34 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of dietary fiber, and 15 grams of protein.
These shells are low in sodium, a good source of vitamin C, and free from dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.
Pros:
- Free from a wide range of allergens
- High in protein and dietary fiber
- Free from saturated fat, trans-fat, and cholesterol
Cons:
- Some customers weren’t satisfied with the taste
- Few customers complained that the pasta took longer to cook than what the instructions suggested
Ingredients: Green Lentil, Cauliflower & Parsnip
Price: $29.99 for a pack of six (8 oz each) on Amazon
7. Organic Shells by Chickapea
Another amazing product carrying the goodness of chickpea while being gluten-free as well as vegan and kosher. Just simply follow the cooking instructions on the side and you’re all set to enjoy a protein-rich meal that tastes, looks, and cooks like traditional pasta.
Make your pasta reach the next level with your favorite sauces, toppings, cheeses, and extras. Made with just three simple ingredients, this is pasta that you will certainly buy again.
There are 4 servings per container. One serving provides 210 calories, 2 grams of total fat including 0 grams of saturated and trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 0 mg of sodium, 34 grams of total carbohydrates, 6 grams of dietary fiber, and 13 grams of protein.
This product is gluten-free, organic, vegan, non-GMO, and kosher.
Pros:
- Kosher
- Vegan
Cons:
- There have been reports of the box being delivered damaged and unusable
- Few complained that the texture was chalky and falls apart too easily
Ingredients: Organic chickpea flour, organic yellow lentil flour, organic red lentil flour.
Price: $26.95 for six 8 oz packs on Amazon
8. Annie’s Gluten Free Rice Pasta & White Cheddar
If you’re someone who loves mac and cheese, then you have got to try this product. While being gluten-free, this shell pasta is able to achieve a deeply enjoyable taste that you can prepare in just 10 minutes.
You can use it as a side dish, in recipes like zucchini mac n cheese, or paired with chicken nuggets. Children love this product and so will you.
There are 2 servings per container. Every container provides 300 calories, 4 grams of total fat with 2.5 grams of saturated fat and 0 grams of trans-fat, 10 mg of cholesterol, 490 mg of sodium, 59 grams of total carbohydrates, less than 1 gram of dietary fiber, 7 grams of protein, and up to 60% of the requirement of vitamin B6.
This product is gluten-free and contains no artificial flavors.
Pros:
- Contains vitamin B6
- No trans-fat, with a slightly higher amount of protein
- Most customers really enjoyed the mac and cheese taste
Cons:
- Contains milk
- Contains saturated fat and cholesterol
- Higher amount of carbohydrates and sodium, and a lower amount of dietary fiber than other brands
Ingredients: Rice Pasta (white rice flour, brown rice flour), Dried Cheddar Cheese (cultured pasteurized milk, salt, non-animal enzymes), Whey, Butter (pasteurized cream, salt), Nonfat Milk, Salt, Sodium Phosphate, Silicon Dioxide (for anticaking).
Price: $39.12 for a pack of twelve (6 oz each) on Amazon
Recommended: Top Gluten Free Gnocchi Brands
9. Whole Foods Market – Organic Gluten-Free Shells
These organic chickpea shells are filled with protein that is perfect for your muscles. Not only are they gluten-free, but also carry the additional benefit of being vegan.
Made from one simple ingredient, this pasta is a safe, reliable choice for you and your family.
It also comes with cooking instructions and a toothsome recipe at the back so you’re completely set to make a delightful weekend feast.
There are 4 servings per container. Every serving contains 230 calories, 3.5 grams of total fat with 0.5 grams of saturated fat and 0 grams of trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 5 mg of sodium, 37 grams of total carbohydrates, 8 grams of dietary fiber, and 12 grams of protein.
This product is gluten-free, organic, non-GMO, and vegan.
Pros:
- Vegan
- Higher amount of dietary fiber and protein
- Free from trans-fat and cholesterol
Cons:
- Contains saturated fat
- Some customers complained about a lack of texture and flavor
Ingredients: Organic Chickpea Flour.
Price: $3.69 for an 8 oz pack on Amazon
10. Gefen Gluten-Free Shells
This is a lovely kosher shell pasta that you and your family will greatly love. Plus if you’re looking for a delectable Passover meal, then this pasta is here to fulfill all your demands.
It also comes with cooking instructions and a yummy recipe at the back so you’re always ready to make a heavenly feast. You can always add your favorite sauces and toppings to make yourself a fine meal that will satisfy all your cravings.
There are about 4.5 servings per container with every serving containing 200 calories, no fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 210 mg of sodium, 49 grams of total carbohydrates, 1 gram of dietary fiber, and 2 grams of protein.
These shells are gluten-free and kosher.
Pros:
- Fat and cholesterol-free
- Kosher
Cons:
- Slightly expensive
- Slightly higher amount of sodium and carbohydrates compared to other brands
- Some customers complained that the product did not maintain its shape during cooking
Ingredients: Potato Flour, Potato Starch, Salt, Cellulose Gum, Beta Carotene.
Price: $9.99 for a 9 oz pack on Amazon
11. Manischewitz Gluten Free Shells
This is another great gluten-free shell pasta if you’re looking for a kosher option that is full of flavor and deliciousness. Even if you aren’t allergic to gluten, this pasta is something you will enjoy regardless.
A tasty picnic meal for kids and adults too. Take along a bowl of cooked pasta on outings, trips, or wherever you go, this product is suited for every occasion.
Couple this with any sauce that you like to add a delightful variation to your dish.
Per container, there are about 6 servings. Every serving contains 210 calories, with 1 gram of total fat, 1 gram of saturated fat and 5 grams of trans-fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 20 mg of sodium, 48 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of dietary fiber, and 2 grams of protein.
This product is gluten-free, cholesterol-free, and kosher.
Pros:
- Cholesterol-free
- Kosher
Cons:
- Contains saturated and trans-fat
- Contains egg
- Expensive
Ingredients: Tapioca starch, dehydrated potato flakes, modified potato starch, pasteurized egg whites, emulsifier (mono and diglycerides-palm oil), xanthan gum, turmeric
Price: $23.99 for a 12 oz pack on Amazon
12. LiveGfree Gluten-Free Deluxe Rice Shells & Cheese
Last on this list is a product for anyone who is craving cheese-flavored shell pasta that is also gluten-free. Not only that but even if you aren’t sensitive to gluten, this product will amaze you with its flavor and texture.
Made with 100% real cheese, this is a product that your family will become a fan of and would want to consume again and again.
Per container, there are 3 servings each of which contains 360 calories, 9 grams of total fat with 2 grams of saturated fat and 0 grams of trans-fat, 5 mg of cholesterol, 720 mg of sodium, 62 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of dietary fiber, and 7 grams of protein.
This product contains no gluten, eggs, nuts, soy, artificial flavors, preservatives, or synthetic colors.
Pros:
- Relatively higher amount of protein compared to other products
- No trans-fat
Cons:
- Contains milk
- Higher amount of calories, fat, and cholesterol compared to others
- More sodium and carbohydrates than other brands
Ingredients: Rice Pasta (White Rice Flour, Brown Rice Flour), Cheddar Cheese Sauce (Water, Cheddar Cheese [Pasteurized Milk, Cheese Culture, Salt, Enzymes], Canola Oil, Whey, Natural Flavors, Maltodextrin, Non-Fat Dry Milk, Salt, Sodium Phosphate, Contains 2% Or Less Of: Colors Added [Beta Carotene, Paprika Extract], Sodium Alginate, Mono And Diglycerides, Lactic Acid Sorbic Acid To Preserve Freshness, Xanthan Gum).
Price: $19.99 for a pack of two 12 oz boxes on Amazon