There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole to bring a taste of home to your holiday table. With its silky mashed sweet potatoes and a perfectly crunchy topping, this dish is the ultimate side for any gathering.
I first discovered this recipe when searching for a gluten-free option that everyone could enjoy. After a few experiments, it quickly became a family favorite, with guests asking for the recipe every year. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!
Why You'll Love This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole
Get ready to add a new classic to your repertoire. This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole has all the rich, cozy flavors of the original but caters to those avoiding gluten.
First off, it’s made with simple, naturally gluten-free ingredients. From the sweet potatoes to the pecan topping, there’s no need to hunt down specialty items—everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
It’s a crowd-pleaser for every dietary preference. Whether you're serving someone with celiac disease or simply aiming for healthier options, this casserole checks all the boxes without sacrificing flavor.
The texture is unbeatable. The sweet potato base is whipped to fluffy perfection, while the nutty topping provides just the right amount of crunch.
And let’s not forget how easy it is to make! You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for stress-free holiday cooking.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this casserole lies in its combination of wholesome, flavorful ingredients. Here's a closer look at the key players:
Sweet Potatoes: These are the heart of the dish, providing a naturally sweet, creamy base. For the best flavor, choose medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin.
Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener enhances the sweetness of the potatoes without being overpowering. It also adds a touch of warmth and depth.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. If you prefer dairy-free, substitute with a plant-based butter alternative.
Eggs: These help bind the casserole and give it a light, airy texture. For an egg-free version, a flaxseed or chia seed egg works well as a substitute.
Pecans: For the topping, chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You can also try walnuts if preferred.
Almond Flour: This gluten-free flour gives the topping structure and a slight nuttiness, complementing the pecans perfectly.
No special equipment is needed, but a hand mixer or stand mixer will make whipping the sweet potatoes effortless.
How to Make This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole
Creating this comforting casserole is a straightforward process. Let’s break it down step by step:
Start by boiling or roasting sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. If boiling, peel them first; if roasting, the skins will slide off easily once they’re cooked.
Mash the sweet potatoes until smooth and creamy. For an ultra-silky texture, use a hand mixer or food processor. Mix in maple syrup, butter, and eggs, along with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased casserole dish. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer.
Prepare the topping by combining chopped pecans, almond flour, a touch of brown sugar or coconut sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the sweet potatoes.
Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp. Let it cool slightly before serving.
This dish can be made ahead and reheated just before serving, making it perfect for a busy holiday schedule.
Storage Options
This casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or advance prep.
If storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors develop even more after a day, so don't be afraid to enjoy it as a make-ahead dish.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil to prevent the topping from burning, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:
For a nut-free version, replace the pecans with gluten-free oats or crushed gluten-free pretzels for a crunchy topping.
Looking for a vegan option? Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use a flaxseed or chia egg in place of regular eggs.
If you’re craving extra sweetness, add a sprinkle of mini marshmallows on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a classic twist.
Prefer a savory spin? Reduce the maple syrup and add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the sweet potato base.
Experiment with the spices—ground ginger or allspice can add a festive flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes.
No matter how you adapt it, this Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole will bring warmth, flavor, and smiles to your table.
PrintGluten Free Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole is a mouthwatering blend of creamy sweet potatoes and a nutty pecan topping. A must-have dish for gluten-free holiday tables, it's naturally sweetened and packed with flavor. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
Topping Ingredients:
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp almond flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil (or butter)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Boil sweet potatoes until tender, peel, and mash in a bowl.
- Mix mashed sweet potatoes with almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Spread in the prepared dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix pecans, almond flour, coconut sugar, and melted coconut oil for the topping.
- Sprinkle the topping over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until topping is golden and crisp.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For added crunch, sprinkle extra pecans on top.
- Substitute coconut oil with butter if not strictly dairy-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅙ of casserole
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 85mg
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