Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

If you’re looking to elevate your holiday table or enjoy a warm, comforting side dish any time of year, Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect choice. This beloved dish, known for its rich flavors and indulgent toppings, is a must-try recipe that is sure to impress family and friends. Inspired by the signature dish from Ruth’s Chris Steak House, this homemade version captures the same sweet and savory essence with a few simple steps. Here’s how you can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen.

What Makes Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Special?

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole stands out for its combination of creamy sweet potatoes and a sweet, crunchy topping made with brown sugar and pecans. The balance of textures—from the smooth and buttery sweet potatoes to the caramelized, nutty topping—creates a symphony of flavors in every bite. It’s a perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the sweet potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
• Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth and creamy.

2. Make the Sweet Potato Mixture:

• Add the granulated sugar, milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt to the bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
• Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

3. Prepare the Topping:

• In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Mix until it forms a crumbly texture.
• Stir in the chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor.

4. Assemble and Bake:

• Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the sweet potato base. For an extra touch of sweetness, add a layer of mini marshmallows on top (optional).
• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, allowing the sweet and savory flavors to shine.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: For the best results, select firm, fresh sweet potatoes that are not too large. This will ensure a creamy texture and balanced flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato base and topping a day in advance. Assemble the dish and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Customize Your Topping: Feel free to experiment with the topping ingredients. For example, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup to enhance the sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a standout dish that can be served as a side for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. Its combination of creamy sweet potato goodness, topped with a sweet, crunchy, and nutty layer, makes it irresistible. The mini marshmallows add an extra layer of sweetness that kids will love, while the pecans give a satisfying crunch that adults will appreciate.

Conclusion

This Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is an easy way to bring the upscale restaurant experience to your dining table. With a mix of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans, this dish is sure to become a holiday tradition and a beloved favorite among friends and family. Prepare it for your next gathering, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!

Serving and Storage Tips for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Serving Tips

1. Presentation: Serve the casserole in the baking dish for a rustic look or transfer it to a serving dish for a more elegant presentation. You can garnish it with a few extra chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.
2. Serving Temperature: This dish is best served warm to fully enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture. Let it cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking before serving to prevent it from being too hot.
3. Pairing Suggestions: Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with savory main dishes like roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib. It’s also a great complement to other holiday sides such as green bean casserole or cranberry sauce.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: You can freeze the sweet potato casserole for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating: To reheat, allow the casserole to thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from browning too much. If desired, add a few extra mini marshmallows or a sprinkle of brown sugar before reheating to refresh the topping.

Tips for Refreshing the Dish

• Add a Fresh Topping: For a fresh touch, sprinkle a little extra brown sugar and pecans on top before reheating.
• Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep in mind that the topping may not stay as crisp as when reheated in the oven.
• Serving After Storage: If serving leftovers, let the casserole come to room temperature for a few minutes before placing it in the oven to reheat. This ensures more even heating and prevents it from drying out.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole long after the initial serving, keeping it just as delightful as when it was freshly made.

1. Can I make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the sweet potato base and the topping separately, then assemble the casserole in the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes and bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. What can I use as a substitute for pecans in the topping?

If you’re not a fan of pecans or need an alternative due to allergies, you can use other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. For a nut-free version, you can skip the nuts entirely or use a mixture of crushed graham crackers or oats for a similar texture.

4. Can I add more marshmallows to the casserole?

Yes, you can definitely add more mini marshmallows to the topping if you love that extra touch of sweetness. For best results, add marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking or broil the casserole for a minute or two until the marshmallows are golden brown. Just be careful not to burn them!

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