If you’re searching for a cozy, irresistibly sweet side that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, you have to try the Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe. This classic Southern-inspired dish is a perfect balance of creamy mashed sweet potatoes and a crunchy, buttery pecan topping that delivers both texture and flavor in every bite. It’s a standout addition to any holiday feast or a comforting weeknight dinner, combining simple ingredients to create something truly special and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in achieving the rich, creamy texture and delightful crunch that makes this casserole a showstopper. From the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes to the toasty pecan topping, every element elevates the dish in its own way.
- Cooked sweet potato (3 cups): The creamy base that brings natural sweetness and vibrant color to the casserole.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to marry the flavors beautifully.
- Softened butter (¼ cup): Locks in moisture and creates a luscious mouthfeel in the potato mixture.
- Whole egg (1): Acts as a binder to hold everything together perfectly.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering the dish.
- Vanilla extract (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and complexity that’s surprisingly delicious.
- Light brown sugar (¾ cup): Brings a deep caramel flavor to the crumb topping.
- Chopped pecans (¾ cup): Provides a fabulous crunch and nutty aroma on top of the casserole.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Helps to bind the topping ingredients and maintain that perfect crispy texture.
- Melted butter (¼ cup): Gives the crumb topping its golden sheen and rich buttery taste.
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, make sure to grease a 2-quart baking dish or a 9-inch pan with non-stick spray—this simple prep step will keep your casserole from sticking and make serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Sweet Potato Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potato, granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring every bite is rich and perfectly blended.
Step 3: Spread Mixture
Spread the smooth sweet potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. This even layer ensures consistent cooking and sets the foundation for the delicious crumb topping.
Step 4: Prepare Crumb Topping
In another bowl, mix the light brown sugar, chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, and melted butter. Stir together until well blended; this crumbly mixture will toast beautifully in the oven, adding incredible texture.
Step 5: Add Crumb Topping
Sprinkle the pecan crumb topping evenly over the sweet potato layer. This is the lovely crispy crown that makes the dish so irresistible.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the assembled casserole into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling around the edges and a golden, lightly crisp topping—that’s your cue that it’s ready!
Step 7: Serve
After baking, let the casserole stand for 10 minutes. This rest time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, making each spoonful perfectly delicious.
How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your casserole with a few fresh pecan halves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of elegance and aroma. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup can add a delightful twist and extra sweetness if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with savory mains like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even simple grilled chicken. The creamy sweetness offers a lovely contrast to protein-heavy dishes and classic vegetable sides like green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This not only makes for a stunning presentation but also keeps each portion warm and delicious until served. Another fun idea is to layer it as a sweet potato parfait with whipped cream between layers for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick reheats during busy weeks.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either baked or unbaked. Wrap it securely with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it will stay good for up to 2 months, perfect for prepping holiday meals ahead of time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. To maintain the crispy topping, avoid microwaving, which can make it soggy—your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While fresh cooked sweet potatoes provide the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them well and mash thoroughly for the best results.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use flaxseed or chia seed eggs, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The pecan topping will still shine beautifully.
How can I prevent the topping from burning before the casserole is fully cooked?
If the topping browns too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with foil halfway through baking to protect it while allowing the inside to cook fully.
Can I prepare the casserole entirely ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated. Bake it the next day just before serving for fresh, warm goodness.
What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?
Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great nut-free alternatives that still provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
The Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a treasured comfort food that brings smiles to every table. Whether it’s your first time making it or you’re a longtime fan, this recipe offers a wonderful combination of ease and elegance that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and watch how it turns simple ingredients into a memorable, mouthwatering experience!
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Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic Southern comfort dish featuring creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a sweet, crunchy pecan crumble. This casserole balances smooth sweetness with a buttery, nutty topping, making it a perfect side for holiday meals or any cozy dinner gathering.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Mixture
- 3 cups cooked sweet potato (mashed)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup softened butter
- 1 whole egg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Crumb Topping
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ¾ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish or a 9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Sweet Potato Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, softened butter, egg, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread Mixture: Evenly spread the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, making sure it’s level for an even bake.
- Prepare Crumb Topping: In another bowl, blend together the light brown sugar, chopped pecans, all-purpose flour, and melted butter until well combined and crumbly.
- Add Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the prepared crumb topping evenly over the surface of the sweet potato layer, covering it thoroughly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to stand for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and the dish set.
Notes
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and well mashed for the smoothest texture.
- You can toast the pecans lightly before mixing for extra flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead; cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
- For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar in the sweet potato mixture as well.
- Use unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly if using salted variants.
