Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole: A Heavenly Holiday Side Dish

The holidays are a time for togetherness, laughter, and of course, delicious food! And what better way to elevate your Thanksgiving or Christmas feast than with a truly unforgettable side dish? This Ruth’s Chris-style sweet potato casserole isn’t just a side; it’s a star, a symphony of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your guests wanting more. Forget the dry, bland sweet potato casseroles of your past. This recipe delivers a luxuriously creamy, intensely sweet, and perfectly spiced casserole, topped with a crunchy pecan crumble that’s simply irresistible. Imagine the warm, buttery sweetness melting in your mouth, the comforting spices mingling perfectly with the rich creaminess of the sweet potatoes, all crowned with a delightful, nutty crunch. This is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience, a taste of pure holiday magic. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this elevated take on a classic comfort food. This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect complement to your holiday roast, ham, or turkey.

Why You’ll Love This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

This isn’t your grandma’s sweet potato casserole (though we’re sure she’d love it too!). This recipe takes the classic dish to a whole new level of decadence. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Unbelievably Creamy Texture: The secret lies in perfectly cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, creating an unbelievably smooth and creamy base. No lumps, just pure, velvety goodness.
• Intense Sweetness and Flavor: The combination of granulated and brown sugars, along with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
• Perfectly Crunchy Topping: The buttery pecan crumble topping adds a delightful textural contrast, providing a satisfying crunch that perfectly balances the creamy sweetness of the casserole.
• Easy to Make: Despite its elegant presentation, this casserole is surprisingly easy to prepare. The simple instructions make it accessible to even novice bakers.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping ahead of time, making it a breeze to assemble and bake just before your meal. This is a huge time-saver during the busy holiday season.
• Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is always a hit, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates. It’s the perfect Thanksgiving or Christmas side dish.

Why You Should Try This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

In a world of countless sweet potato casserole recipes, this one stands out for its exceptional quality and ease. Here are compelling reasons to give it a try:

• Elevated Holiday Experience: Take your holiday meal from ordinary to extraordinary with this recipe. It’s the perfect way to impress your guests and make your celebration extra special.
• Restaurant-Quality Taste at Home: Enjoy the rich, decadent flavors of a high-end restaurant without the hefty price tag or the hassle of dining out. You’ll be making restaurant-quality dishes in the comfort of your own home.
• Unique and Memorable Flavor Profile: This recipe goes beyond the typical sweet potato casserole, offering a nuanced and unforgettable flavor combination that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other special gathering, this casserole is a guaranteed showstopper.
• Adaptable to Your Preferences: You can easily customize the recipe to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, spices, or sweeteners to create your perfect version.
• Share the Deliciousness: This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Your Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for baking success. Below, we’ve detailed everything you’ll need to create this magnificent dish.

Detailed List of Ingredients:

• Sweet Potatoes (3 lbs): Choose firm, well-shaped sweet potatoes for the best results. The quantity ensures a generous serving for a crowd.
• Unsalted Butter (2 sticks): Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the dish. The richness of the butter contributes significantly to the overall flavor and creaminess.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Provides sweetness and helps to balance the spices.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds depth of flavor and moisture to the casserole.
• Milk (1/2 cup, whole milk recommended): Whole milk adds richness and creaminess. You can experiment with other types of milk, but whole milk delivers the best results.
• Large Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the casserole.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth. Pure vanilla extract is always preferred.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): A classic sweet potato spice that adds warmth and depth.
• Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Complements the cinnamon and adds a subtle complexity.
• Ground Cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
• Salt (Pinch): Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): A key ingredient in the crunchy topping.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds texture and a delightful nutty flavor to the topping. If you have nut allergies, leave them out completely.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

• Large Pot: For boiling the sweet potatoes.
• Potato Masher or Electric Mixer: For creating a smooth and creamy sweet potato puree. An electric mixer significantly reduces preparation time.
• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: A standard size for this casserole. Ensure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking.
• Medium Bowl: For preparing the topping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing the ingredients.
• Whisk (optional): For whisking the eggs before adding them to the sweet potato mixture.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly baked Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole:

1. Boil the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. **Reduce heat to medium-low**, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces them. **Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly** before proceeding. This is crucial for preventing a watery casserole.
2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: While the sweet potatoes are still warm, mash them using a potato masher or an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy. **Avoid over-mixing**, which can make the casserole gummy. If using an electric mixer, start on a low speed and gradually increase to medium.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, melt the first stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter. Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. **Mix thoroughly** until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and pecans (if using). Pour in the melted second stick (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter and **mix with your fingers or a fork until the mixture is crumbly**. Don’t overmix; you want a coarse, crumbly texture for the topping.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. **Spread the mixture evenly**. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture. **Ensure the topping covers the entire surface**.
6. Bake the Casserole: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. **Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.** If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil.
7. Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. The flavors will also meld better during this cooling period.

Tips and Variations for Your Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

This recipe is quite adaptable, allowing you to make it your own. Here are some useful tips and variations:

• Ingredient Alternatives: If you’re out of pecans, walnuts work equally well. For a gluten-free version, substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in the topping. You can also experiment with different types of sweeteners, such as maple syrup or honey, to adjust the sweetness level.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and spice. A dash of allspice can also work wonders. Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to personalize your recipe.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), and the milk with plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk).
• Marshmallow Topping: For a classic twist, top the casserole with toasted mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving.
• Avoiding Common Mistakes: Ensure your sweet potatoes are completely drained before mashing to avoid a watery casserole. Don’t overmix the sweet potato mixture, and don’t overbake the casserole it should be warm and creamy throughout, not dry.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of the Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

While this recipe is undeniably indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. The addition of pecans provides healthy fats and antioxidants.

Note: The exact nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. These are approximate values.

• Calories (per serving): Approximately 350-400 calories
• Protein (per serving): Approximately 3-4 grams
• Fat (per serving): Approximately 18-22 grams
• Carbohydrates (per serving): Approximately 45-55 grams

Benefits of Sweet Potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. They are also a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and fiber, which aids digestion.

Benefits of Pecans: Excellent source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Also packed with antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals.

FAQs

Conclusion: Indulge in the Perfect Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests and family. The creamy texture, the rich sweetness, and the irresistible crunchy topping combine to create a truly unforgettable taste. Remember the tips and variations to customize this recipe to your liking. We encourage you to share your experience making this recipe in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this amazing recipe with your friends and family on social media! Happy baking and happy holidays!

For more delicious recipes and baking inspiration, check out our other amazing recipes on recipesebook.com and follow us on Pinterest for more recipe ideas!

Ruth's Chris-Style Sweet Potato Casserole

A decadent and creamy sweet potato casserole with a buttery pecan crumble topping, inspired by the classic Ruth's Chris restaurant style.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Sweet Potato Filling

• 3 lbs Sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
• 1 cup Unsalted butter melted
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup Packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Whole milk
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt

Pecan Crumble Topping

• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup Packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter melted

Equipment

• Large pot
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Medium bowl

Method

 

Instructions

1. Boil sweet potatoes: Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain well.
2. Mash sweet potatoes: While still warm, mash sweet potatoes until smooth using a potato masher or electric mixer.
3. Combine wet ingredients: Stir in melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Make topping: In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and pecans. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly.
5. Assemble casserole: Pour sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and casserole is heated through.
7. Cool: Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use maple syrup instead of some of the granulated sugar. You can also add a pinch of ginger to the sweet potato mixture for extra warmth.