Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that captures the essence of comfort food with its rich, creamy texture and delightful sweetness. This casserole features velvety sweet potatoes, blended seamlessly with a hint of cinnamon and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel that adds a satisfying contrast. It’s the perfect dish for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in, offering a taste of indulgence that feels like a warm hug.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe for its luxurious flavor profile and ease of preparation. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes is enhanced by the addition of brown sugar and vanilla, creating a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. It fits well within many dietary lifestyles, especially those that celebrate seasonal ingredients. Plus, this casserole can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it a stress-free addition to any meal plan.
Tips and Tricks
- Perfect Sweet Potatoes: Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes. For the best texture, steam or boil them until fork-tender before mashing.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the sweet potato mixture.
- Pecan Topping: Toast the pecans before adding them to the topping mixture to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Make it Creamy: Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip the sweet potatoes for an ultra-creamy consistency.
Make Ahead Tips
Prep this casserole a day in advance! You can steam or boil the sweet potatoes and mash them, then store them in the refrigerator. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. The dish can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecan topping and replace it with a simple marshmallow layer for a sweet twist.
- Add Spice: Incorporate spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free.
How to Serve
Serve your Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole warm, straight from the oven. For an elegant presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a protein of choice, or a fresh green salad to balance out the rich flavors of the casserole.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a lightly chilled Riesling or a bourbon cocktail would complement the sweet flavors beautifully. As for side dishes, consider serving it alongside honey-glazed carrots or a savory stuffing. For dessert, a classic pumpkin pie would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze the casserole; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last in the freezer for about three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch casserole dish is ideal.
- Mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer for smooth sweet potatoes.
- Peeler and Knife: For prepping sweet potatoes.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this casserole vegan, substitute dairy products with coconut milk and use a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that the brown sugar is vegan-friendly as some brands use bone char in processing. For nut-free options, leave out the pecans and consider using crushed graham crackers for a topping.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, add some freshly grated ginger or even some roasted apples for a seasonal twist. During the spring, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected savory flavor that complements the sweet potatoes.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use canned sweet potatoes? Yes, you can, but fresh sweet potatoes provide better flavor and texture.
- What if I don’t have brown sugar? You can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for a similar effect.
- How long should I bake it? Bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes or until heated through and the topping is golden brown.
How To Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe
Ruth's Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that captures the essence of comfort food with its rich, creamy texture and delightful sweetness.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter (or vegan alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and chop sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil or steam them until fork-tender.
- Drain and mash the sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Add brown sugar, milk, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mashed potatoes. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, flour, and granulated sugar. Mix well. - Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 280Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 5mgSodium 54mgCarbohydrates 42gFiber 4gSugar 25gProtein 4g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort that can elevate any dining experience. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to make it your own with variations and personal touches that reflect your taste. Happy cooking!
