Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for the showstopper at your next holiday feast, look no further than the Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole. This iconic dish is more than just a side—it’s a silky, buttery layer of sweet potato topped with a golden, caramelized pecan crust that’s as magical as dessert yet right at home next to your Thanksgiving turkey. The flavors sing with warmth and comfort, while the irresistible texture contrast makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re gathering around the holiday table or bringing a touch of steakhouse indulgence to a cozy weeknight meal, this Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole always steals the spotlight.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the secrets to the magic of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role—sweet potatoes for earthy sweetness, a hint of vanilla for depth, eggs for a velvety base, and of course, that addictively crisp pecan topping. Gather these essentials and you’re on your way to a crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

• Mashed Sweet Potatoes (3 cups): Freshly cooked and mashed sweet potatoes create the foundation for both flavor and creamy texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the base and balances the natural earthiness of the potatoes.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the other flavors and prevent the dish from tasting flat.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a soft, rich aroma that sets this casserole apart from ordinary sweet potato sides.
• Large Eggs, beaten (2): Bind everything together for a luscious, custard-like filling.
• Unsalted Butter, melted (½ cup): Infuses the base with deep, luxurious richness.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup): Forms the molasses-kissed sweetness in the signature topping.
• All-Purpose Flour (⅓ cup): Helps the topping crisp to golden perfection as it bakes.
• Chopped Pecans (1 cup): Lend a nutty crunch and classic Southern flair to the casserole.
• Unsalted Butter, softened (⅓ cup): Ensures the topping bakes up crumbly and divine.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling and boiling your sweet potatoes until fork-tender, then mash them until smooth. For an ultra-velvety base, you can even puree them—this step makes a big difference if you aim for restaurant-style silkiness in your Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Stir everything together until you have a uniform, silky mixture. Pour it into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top so it’s ready for a perfect layer of topping.

Step 3: Mix the Pecan Topping

Grab a separate bowl and toss in the light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and softened butter. Use a fork or your fingers to crumble the mixture together. The goal is to end up with a textured, chunky topping that will bake into a crisp, nutty layer—the star of the Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole’s irresistible finish.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer, ensuring good coverage all the way into the corners. Slide the casserole into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The topping should be golden and wonderfully crisp, while the filling is puffed and set. Let your masterpiece cool just slightly before serving.

How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect dish, scatter a few more toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the top right before serving. If you’re feeling extra festive, a sprig of fresh rosemary not only adds color but also a subtle aroma that whispers of the holidays.

Side Dishes

This casserole is right at home beside classic holiday mains like roast turkey, glazed ham, or beef tenderloin. It also pairs beautifully with green beans, Brussels sprouts, or a crisp salad—the sweet, rich flavors provide the perfect counterbalance to savory or tangy sides on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole into individual servings by baking it in ramekins, or give it a rustic twist in a cast iron skillet. For a potluck, consider doubling the recipe and using a deep, oval casserole dish for that “wow” factor when you set it out on the buffet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole will keep its delightful texture and flavor for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer’s best friend. Let it cool completely, wrap it snugly, and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before baking—just add the pecan topping fresh before reheating, so you get that signature crunch.

Reheating

To bring your casserole back to life, reheat it in a 350°F oven (covered with foil to keep the topping from over-browning) until it’s warmed through. For smaller portions, a quick spin in the microwave works too—just watch so the topping stays crisp.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes work in a pinch—just be sure to drain them well and skip any extra syrup, as you want to keep sweetness balanced in your Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Easy fix—simply swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour for the topping. The rest of the casserole is already gluten-free, so everyone can dig in without worry.

Can I prep Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole ahead?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes holiday meal prep so much easier and lets the flavors meld beautifully.

What’s the best way to mash the sweet potatoes?

A potato masher works just fine, but for perfectly smooth results, use a hand mixer, food processor, or blender—especially if you’re aiming for that creamy, restaurant-style base in your Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! This dish scales up beautifully for larger crowds. Just bake in a larger or deeper dish, and you may need to add 5 to 10 more minutes to the bake time—watch until the topping is perfectly golden.

Final Thoughts

Give Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole a spot in your next big meal—whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a special treat. One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish is beloved by so many. Trust me, it’s bound to become your new go-to favorite side!

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