If you’re on the hunt for a truly comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish, look no further than Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe. This beloved casserole combines the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery, crunchy pecan topping that bakes to golden perfection. The balance of flavors and textures makes this dish a festive centerpiece for any holiday table or a delicious companion to your weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for special occasions and cozy family meals alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s adding creaminess, sweetness, or that irresistible nutty crunch that tops the dish.
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes: The creamy, natural base that brings vibrant color and heartwarming flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to enhance the potatoes without overpowering them.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and draws out the natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle warmth and depth to the filling.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Helps bind the mixture together for a smooth, firm texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and silky smoothness throughout the dish.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed (for topping): Brings a caramel-like sweetness and slight chew to the crunchy topping.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Creates the perfect crumbly texture for the topping to hold together.
- 1 cup chopped pecans (for topping): Adds crunch, nuttiness, and a lovely contrast to the soft casserole beneath.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping): Binds the topping ingredients and browns deliciously in the oven.
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Base
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, blend the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, beaten eggs, and melted butter. The goal is to create a smooth, silky mixture where every bite will feel indulgently creamy yet light.
Step 2: Spread the Sweet Potato Mixture
Once thoroughly combined, spread your sweet potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This gives you an even layer that will cook uniformly and support the topping perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir this until the mixture turns crumbly but holds together when squeezed. This topping is what gives the casserole its signature sweet, crunchy finish.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the pecan topping generously and evenly over the sweet potato layer. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is beautifully golden and the casserole is warmed through. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle and the topping to crisp up a bit. This little rest makes it even more delightful when you dig in.
How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra charm to your serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top. A dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of marshmallow fluff on the side can also elevate the sweetness and complement the crunchy topping beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is a stellar addition to holiday meals alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham. It pairs wonderfully with green beans, cranberry sauce, and buttery dinner rolls for a full, festive spread that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve portions in individual ramekins topped with pecan halves. You can also layer the casserole in a clear glass dish to showcase the vibrant orange filling beneath the golden pecan crust, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining its creamy texture and crisp topping when reheated properly.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days. Freeze the sweet potato base and topping separately for best results. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then assemble and bake as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, removing the foil in the last 5 minutes to refresh the topping’s crunch. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the topping soggy.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and mash to a smooth consistency before mixing the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this casserole vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, and use vegan butter alternatives. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying, just with a plant-based twist.
How can I reduce the sugar without compromising taste?
Try reducing the granulated sugar by a quarter or replacing some of it with natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup or honey. The vanilla extract and pecan topping help maintain a rich flavor even with less sugar in the filling.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potato base up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Add the topping just before baking for a fresh and crunchy finish.
What makes Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe stand out?
It’s the perfect harmony of creamy sweet potatoes infused with vanilla and eggs, topped with a buttery, nutty crust. This combination creates a comforting yet elegant side dish that elevates any meal it accompanies.
Final Thoughts
This Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays or just craving a cozy side, this recipe guarantees smiles with every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
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Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic American holiday side dish featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes blended with sugar, vanilla, eggs, and butter, topped with a crunchy, sweet pecan crumble. Baked until golden and warm, this comforting casserole is perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 3 large sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Sweet Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined without lumps.
- Assemble Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the dish, smoothing the surface for an even layer.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture, perfect for a crunchy topping.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish, covering the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly to allow the casserole to set before serving warm.
Notes
- You can prepare the sweet potato base a day ahead and refrigerate it; add the topping just before baking for convenience.
- For a lighter version, reduce the sugar in the filling or substitute granulated sugar with pure maple syrup.
