This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate holiday side dish! Made with creamy, spiced sweet potatoes and topped with a gluten-free pecan crumble, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s ideal for Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this casserole is both gluten-free and full of rich, holiday flavors.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This sweet potato casserole is not just a dish; it’s an experience that combines the warmth of home cooking with the festive spirit of the holidays. The creamy filling made from sweet potatoes is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of maple syrup and the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg. The gluten-free pecan topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling. Whether you are gluten intolerant or just looking to add a healthy twist to your holiday table, this casserole will become a staple in your festive repertoire. It’s a dish that brings people together, making every gathering a little more special.
Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, the quest for the perfect side dish begins. You want something that not only complements the main course but also stands out on its own. Enter the Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole! This dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave your guests raving. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, it’s a dish that offers comfort and nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a holiday favorite!
Ingredients:
- For the Sweet Potato Filling:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup coconut milk (or milk of choice)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Salt to taste
- For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup gluten-free oat flour
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Cook Sweet Potatoes
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and mash them until smooth.
Step 3: Make Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Spread this sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare Topping
In another bowl, combine the chopped pecans, gluten-free oat flour, coconut sugar, and melted butter (or coconut oil). Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and crumbly. Sprinkle this pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato filling.
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Note:
Use coconut oil or vegan butter in the topping for a dairy-free version. If you prefer a sweeter dish, consider drizzling additional maple syrup on top just before serving. For an exciting twist, add mini marshmallows to the topping in the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
Suggestions for Presentation:
Serve this casserole in the baking dish for a rustic look, or transfer it to a beautiful serving platter for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few whole pecans for added visual appeal. Pair it with your favorite holiday main dishes for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Make the sweet potato filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake on the day of your gathering.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- This casserole can also be frozen. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 110mg
Conclusion
This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that embody the spirit of the holidays. Its creamy texture and crunchy topping create a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to enjoy a comforting meal, this casserole is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make a holiday classic that everyone will love!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free oat flour?
No, this recipe is specifically designed to be gluten-free. If you’re not gluten-sensitive, you could use regular flour, but it will change the texture. - What can I substitute for coconut milk?
You can use any milk of your choice, such as almond milk, soy milk, or regular cow’s milk, depending on your dietary preferences. - Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sweet potato filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble and bake it on the day you plan to serve it. - Is this casserole suitable for vegans?
Yes, by using coconut oil instead of butter and ensuring that all other ingredients are vegan, you can make this dish suitable for a vegan diet. - How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
