There are few dishes that evoke the same level of nostalgia and comfort as a sweet potato casserole. It’s the kind of dish that graces holiday tables, special occasions, and even weeknight dinners with its sweet, creamy flavor and a touch of indulgence. If you’ve ever dined at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you’ve likely experienced their famous Sweet Potato Casserole an incredibly rich and decadent side dish that has garnered a cult following. Its perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a crunchy topping makes it stand out as a crowd favorite.
But what if I told you that you can recreate Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole in the comfort of your own kitchen? Yes, you can enjoy this luxurious side dish without leaving your home! This copycat recipe is easier to make than you might think, and once you try it, you’ll never want to settle for anything less.
In this article, I’ll show you exactly how to recreate the beloved Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, including step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and ideas for making it your own. You’ll also learn why this dish has become such a fan favorite and how you can make it a star at your next meal.
Why You’ll Love Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is not your typical casserole it’s indulgent, flavorful, and unforgettable. Here are just a few reasons why this dish has earned such a dedicated following:
- Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The combination of mashed sweet potatoes and brown sugar gives this casserole a rich, sweet flavor, but it’s never cloying. It’s just the right amount of sweetness to complement any main course.
- Creamy Texture: The sweet potatoes are whipped into a creamy, smooth consistency that melts in your mouth. This velvety texture is one of the reasons why it’s so popular at Ruth’s Chris and why it’s such a hit at any meal.
- Crunchy Topping: The casserole is topped with a buttery, brown sugar crumb topping that adds the perfect amount of crunch and a rich caramelized flavor. It’s that irresistible contrast between creamy and crunchy that makes this dish a standout.
- Versatile Side Dish: While it’s most commonly served during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, this casserole can be made year-round as a comforting side dish for family meals, special dinners, or even a weeknight treat.
- Impressive Presentation: The casserole’s golden, crunchy topping makes it look as stunning as it tastes. It’s a great dish to serve at family gatherings, dinner parties, or holiday feasts.
What Makes Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole So Special?
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole has earned its reputation as an unforgettable side dish for several reasons. Let’s break down some of the key components that make this dish so beloved:
- The Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish. They bring both natural sweetness and a silky texture that forms the base of the casserole. The secret to the perfect sweet potato casserole is in cooking the sweet potatoes just right soft, creamy, and ready to absorb all the other flavors.
- The Butter and Cream: To get that indulgent, creamy texture, Ruth’s Chris uses a generous amount of butter and cream in their recipe. This richness helps balance the sweetness of the potatoes, making every bite melt in your mouth.
- The Brown Sugar Topping: Perhaps the most distinctive feature of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is the buttery, crunchy brown sugar topping. This topping provides just the right amount of sweetness and crunch, giving each spoonful a satisfying contrast to the creamy filling.
- The Marshmallows (Optional): Some variations of the recipe include toasted marshmallows on top, which give the casserole an extra layer of sweetness and a bit of gooey texture. You can choose whether or not to add marshmallows, depending on your personal preference.
Ingredients for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole (Copycat Recipe)
To make a dish that rivals Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients. Don’t worry most of these are pantry staples, so you won’t have to make a special trip to the store!
For the Sweet Potato Casserole:
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for that rich, creamy base)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for sweetness and caramel flavor)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (for extra richness and smoothness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (to bring out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a warm, comforting spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a deeper flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for a caramelized, sweet topping)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (to help bind the topping and add richness)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for the perfect crumbly topping)
Optional:
- Marshmallows (for topping, if you prefer the marshmallow version of this casserole)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole at home.
Directions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into large chunks. Place the chunks in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and return them to the pot or place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Mash the Sweet Potatoes:
- Use a potato masher, fork, or hand mixer to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to mash them to your liking.
- Make the Sweet Potato Base:
- Add the melted butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir everything together until well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or spices as needed.
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Prepare the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and flour. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly, streusel-like topping. If you’re using marshmallows, you can skip this step and just reserve them for topping later.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. If you’re using marshmallows, you can sprinkle them on top of the casserole now or wait until the last few minutes of baking for that perfectly toasted finish.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potatoes, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. This topping will bake into a golden, crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweet potato base.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. If you’re using marshmallows, add them on top during the last 5 minutes of baking and bake until they’re lightly toasted.
- Serve:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This dish can be served as a side for any meal, especially during the holidays, and pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or turkey.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
- Don’t Overcook the Sweet Potatoes: Overcooking the sweet potatoes can result in a watery casserole. Be sure to check the texture with a fork after about 15-20 minutes of simmering. The potatoes should be soft and tender but not mushy.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth and well-blended casserole, make sure your butter and heavy cream are at room temperature before adding them to the sweet potatoes. This will help them incorporate evenly without creating lumps.
- Customize the Topping: Feel free to customize the topping based on your preferences. If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can add more brown sugar or even drizzle caramel sauce over the top before baking. For a nut-free version, you can use crushed graham crackers or oats for the topping.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add the topping right before baking, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s ready to serve with minimal effort.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
- Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole: To make a vegan-friendly version of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream. For the sweetener, maple syrup or coconut sugar works beautifully as a natural alternative to brown sugar. The topping can be made with vegan-friendly ingredients like oat flour or crushed graham crackers for the crunch.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground chipotle pepper to the sweet potato mixture. The slight heat will create a delicious contrast with the natural sweetness of the potatoes and the brown sugar topping. You could also mix in some finely chopped jalapeños for a more pronounced kick.
- Marshmallow-Free Version: For those who aren’t fans of marshmallows or prefer a more classic, nutty topping, you can skip the marshmallows altogether and double down on the pecan or walnut topping. You could even make a sweet crumble with oats, butter, and cinnamon for a crunchy topping that’s a bit more rustic.
- Add-ins for Extra Flavor: To elevate the flavor profile, add 1/2 cup of orange juice to the sweet potatoes, or a teaspoon of ground ginger. These flavors will pair wonderfully with the cinnamon and nutmeg, giving your casserole a bright, aromatic kick that takes it to the next level.
- Cream Cheese Version: If you want your sweet potato casserole to be extra creamy and indulgent, add 1/2 cup of cream cheese to the mashed sweet potatoes. It will lend a slight tang and create an ultra-creamy texture, perfect for those who love a richer, more decadent casserole.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
While Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is undeniably indulgent, it still offers some nutritional benefits especially from the sweet potatoes themselves.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximately 1/10th of the casserole):
- Calories: 350-400 (depending on portion size and added ingredients)
- Protein: 3g (from the pecans and sweet potatoes)
- Carbs: 50g (mostly from the sweet potatoes and brown sugar)
- Fats: 18g (mainly from the butter, olive oil, and pecans)
- Fiber: 5g (thanks to the fiber-rich sweet potatoes)
- Sugar: 30g (primarily from the sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and topping)
Health Benefits:
- Sweet Potatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, sweet potatoes are known for their antioxidant properties. They also provide dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
- Pecans: A great source of healthy fats, pecans are packed with monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. They also contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help improve your overall health.
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon is rich in antioxidants and can help lower blood sugar levels, making it a healthy addition to this dish.
- Vegan Options: If you opt for a plant-based version, using coconut milk and coconut oil still provides healthy fats without the dairy, while keeping the casserole creamy and indulgent.
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole makes an excellent side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
- Roast Turkey or Chicken: This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family dinner, the sweet potato casserole complements roasted turkey, chicken, or even ham. The sweetness of the dish balances well with the savory flavors of the meat.
- Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier meal, serve the casserole alongside some grilled vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans. The freshness of the vegetables provides a contrast to the richness of the casserole, helping balance the flavors.
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to the sweet, creamy casserole. The acidity of the dressing helps cut through the richness, providing a perfect counterpoint to the sweet potatoes.
- Baked Ham: If you’re serving this casserole for a holiday meal, try pairing it with a glazed baked ham. The smoky, salty flavor of the ham complements the sweet, buttery flavor of the casserole perfectly.
- Mac and Cheese: If you’re craving extra comfort, why not pair this dish with creamy macaroni and cheese? The creamy, cheesy pasta complements the richness of the sweet potato casserole and creates a decadent spread for your guests.
- Biscuits or Cornbread: Light, fluffy biscuits or cornbread are great sides that will soak up the sweet potato casserole’s creamy sauce, making every bite even more satisfying. Serve with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
- Fried Chicken: For a truly indulgent meal, pair this casserole with crispy fried chicken. The rich, crunchy chicken and the velvety sweet potatoes create an irresistible combination.
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply assemble everything, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, add the topping, and bake according to the instructions. If baking from cold, you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! After assembling and cooling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. You can also bake it straight from the freezer, but you’ll need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different nut for the topping?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional in this casserole, you can easily substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely so they can spread evenly over the casserole.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with regular milk and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. This will mimic the acidity and texture of buttermilk.
Can I make this casserole spicy?
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sweet potato mixture. It will add a subtle spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
Cooking Notes and Final Tips
Chef’s Notes:
Sweet potato casserole is one of those dishes that gets better with time. The flavors meld beautifully, and the casserole’s texture improves after a day or two. If you have leftovers, they make an excellent snack or side dish for the next day.
Pro Tips:
- Test for Doneness: Pound the casserole lightly after baking. If it’s firm to the touch and the topping is golden brown, it’s ready. If it’s still too jiggly, let it bake a few more minutes.
- Topping Variations: If you prefer a lighter topping, consider using a combination of crushed graham crackers or oats and butter instead of the sugar and nuts.
- Add More Flavor: For an even more vibrant flavor, drizzle the casserole with maple syrup after baking. It adds an extra layer of sweetness that perfectly complements the dish.
Conclusion
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is truly a masterpiece perfectly balancing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes with the richness of the butter and cream, and topped with a crunchy, caramelized topping that makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for the holidays, a family dinner, or just because, this dish is bound to be a hit with anyone who tries it.
If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Let me know in the comments below, or share your photos on social media and tag me. Don’t forget to explore more of my delicious, family-friendly recipes and share the love of great food with your friends and family!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this delightful sweet potato casserole!