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Some dishes are more than just food—they’re a celebration of flavor, nostalgia, and comfort. The Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is one such culinary masterpiece, beloved for its decadent balance of silky smooth sweet potatoes and a delightfully crunchy pecan topping. Whether you’re reminiscing about a dinner at Ruth Chris Steakhouse or searching for a standout recipe for your holiday table, this copycat version promises to deliver all the indulgence of the original dish right in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating a sweet potato casserole that’s sure to impress. You’ll learn what makes this dish so special, the exact ingredients to use, and the secrets to nailing the perfect texture and flavor. Plus, we’ll share tips for customizing the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
What Makes Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole So Irresistible?
If you’ve ever dined at Ruth Chris Steakhouse, you know the Sweet Potato Casserole isn’t your typical side dish. This dish has earned a reputation as one of the most memorable items on their menu—and for good reason.
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The casserole expertly balances the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with just the right amount of sugar, butter, and vanilla.
- The Show-Stopping Topping: A crunchy, caramelized pecan crust elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Its buttery, nutty flavor provides a delightful contrast to the creamy sweet potato base.
- A Versatile Dish: While it’s traditionally served as a side dish, its dessert-like quality means it can easily double as a sweet ending to your meal.
- Crowd Appeal: This casserole is a hit with all ages and occasions, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or even casual weeknight dinners.
By following this copycat recipe, you can bring the same magic to your table without ever leaving your home.
Ingredients for Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
To recreate this iconic dish, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for both the sweet potato base and the signature pecan topping.
Sweet Potato Base Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes | 3 cups (mashed) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter (melted) | 1/2 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs (beaten) | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Pecan Topping Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
| Butter (melted) | 1/3 cup |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Casserole
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Cooking the Potatoes: Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly. You can either boil or bake them. Baking enhances their natural sweetness by caramelizing their sugars, while boiling is quicker.
- Mashing the Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and soft, peel them and mash them until smooth. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to achieve a creamy texture.
2. Mix the Sweet Potato Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
3. Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and chopped pecans. Stir until the ingredients form a crumbly texture. This topping will add the perfect crunchy contrast to the creamy base.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Use nonstick spray or butter to grease a baking dish. Evenly distribute the sweet potato mixture after pouring it into the plate.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping generously over the sweet potato layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
5. Bake to Perfection
After preheating the oven, bake the dish for twenty-five to thirty minutes. The topping should turn golden brown and slightly crispy, while the sweet potato layer remains creamy.
Before serving, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to cool for ten or so minutes.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (sometimes labeled as yams in the U.S.) for the best flavor and texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the sweet potato base, mix just until the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar in the base or topping slightly.
- Add a Twist: For a fun variation, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato base for a warm, spiced flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole goes well with many other foods. Consider serving it alongside:
- Roast Turkey or Chicken: A perfect complement to the savory flavors of poultry.
- Glazed Ham: The sweet and salty combination is irresistible.
- Green Beans or Brussels Sprouts: Add a fresh, green side to balance the richness of the casserole.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 290 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! The dish can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time. Assemble the sweet potato base and topping in the dish, then cover and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake according to the recipe.
3. How Can I Make a Nut-Free Version?
If you have a nut allergy or are serving guests with dietary restrictions, replace the pecans with crushed graham crackers or oats for a nut-free topping.
4. What Other Variations Can I Try?
For an extra layer of flavor, add shredded coconut to the topping or a swirl of maple syrup to the sweet potato base.
Conclusion
With this copycat Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe, you can bring the flavors of a high-end steakhouse straight to your table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or simply treating yourself to a little indulgence, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most beloved recipes from Ruth Chris Steakhouse—all from the comfort of your home.
We’d love to hear from you! Share your experience making this recipe in the comments below. And for more restaurant-inspired recipes, be sure to explore Frish Recipes.