There’s nothing quite like the sweet, earthy aroma of sweet potato casserole filling your kitchen during the holidays. This classic dish is elevated with a luscious topping of crunchy pecans and gooey marshmallows, making it the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence.

I first experimented with a gluten-free version of this recipe a few years ago when my sister was diagnosed with celiac disease. It quickly became a family favorite, and now we can’t imagine celebrating Thanksgiving or Christmas without it. Trust me, you won’t miss the gluten in this creamy, dreamy side dish!

Why You'll Love This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole

Get ready to add a new star to your holiday table! This gluten-free sweet potato casserole is easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and sure to become a staple for your festive meals.

First, it’s completely gluten-free without compromising on flavor or texture. The buttery topping is made with gluten-free flour, so everyone at the table can enjoy it without hesitation.

It’s also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy holiday prep.

The texture and taste? Absolutely divine. The sweet potatoes are velvety smooth, and the combination of crunchy pecans with fluffy marshmallows creates a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

Finally, it’s versatile enough to suit various preferences. Whether you like a marshmallow topping, a nutty crunch, or a combination of both, this casserole can be customized to make everyone happy.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few carefully selected ingredients, you’ll create a dish that tastes like a million bucks.

Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Opt for fresh, large sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Roasting them enhances their natural sweetness, but you can also boil them for a quicker prep.
Brown Sugar: Adds warmth and depth to the sweet potatoes, complementing their natural flavor. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount slightly.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the flavor. Make sure it’s softened to blend easily with the sweet potato mash.
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the topping! Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur measure-for-measure flours work perfectly here.
Pecans: These add a delightful crunch to the topping. Chop them coarsely for a rustic texture.
Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are the go-to option for that golden, melty layer. For a cleaner option, you can choose vegan marshmallows.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings out the flavors and adds a touch of indulgence.

You won’t need any special equipment, just a potato masher or hand mixer for the sweet potatoes and a baking dish for assembly.

How to Make This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Casserole

Making this casserole is easier than you think! With just a little prep and some oven time, you’ll have a side dish that wows every guest.

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by washing and peeling 4 large sweet potatoes, then cut them into chunks. Boil or roast them until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and transfer to a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mash and Flavor the Sweet Potatoes

Mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Stir in ½ cup of brown sugar, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices as desired.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of gluten-free all-purpose flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, and ½ cup of chopped pecans. Mix until it resembles a coarse crumble. Sprinkle this mixture over the sweet potatoes.

Step 5: Add Marshmallows (Optional but Recommended!)

Top the casserole with 1 cup of mini marshmallows, distributing them evenly over the pecan topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and the topping is crisp. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving – this dish is best enjoyed warm!

Storage Options

This casserole is perfect for making ahead or saving leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigerator: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole (before adding the marshmallows) in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes. If you’re using marshmallows, add them during the last 5 minutes of reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Nut-Free Option: Swap the pecans for crushed gluten-free graham crackers or omit them altogether for a marshmallow-only topping.
Vegan-Friendly: Use a dairy-free butter alternative and vegan marshmallows to make this casserole completely plant-based.
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or ground ginger to the sweet potato mash for extra warmth and holiday vibes.
No Marshmallows? No Problem!: Create a simple streusel topping by mixing gluten-free oats with the pecan crumble.
Savory Option: Skip the marshmallows and brown sugar, and mix in shredded cheese and chopped herbs for a savory twist.

With this gluten-free sweet potato casserole, your holiday table will shine brighter than ever. Its creamy, comforting base and irresistible topping are guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to be a hit year after year. Enjoy!