Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole: A Decadent Holiday Delight

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, a beloved dish that combines velvety mashed sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan streusel topping. This casserole is a standout addition to any holiday feast or special occasion, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that will leave your guests craving more.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Mixture:

• 3 cups (about 2 pounds) cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, well beaten
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Streusel Topping:

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or potato masher
• Medium mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Preparation for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by cooking the sweet potatoes until they are tender. You can boil, bake, or microwave them based on your preference. Once cooked, peel and mash the sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl until smooth.

2. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.

3. Combine the Sweet Potato Mixture

To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the granulated sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Use an electric mixer or potato masher to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

5. Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.

6. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.

7. Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

8. Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this decadent dish warm as a side or even as a dessert.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of creamy, sweetened mashed sweet potatoes and the crunchy, buttery pecan streusel creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of eggs helps bind the sweet potato mixture, giving it a light and fluffy consistency, while the pecan topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the casserole.

Tips for Perfect Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

• Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, often labeled as “yams” in supermarkets, for their natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Ensure Smooth Mashed Potatoes: For an extra smooth consistency, use a food processor to puree the cooked sweet potatoes before combining them with the other ingredients.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. If the topping begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Creative Variations

• Marshmallow Topping: For a traditional twist, add mini marshmallows on top of the pecan streusel during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Spiced Sweet Potatoes: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice into the sweet potato mixture for added depth of flavor.
• Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds in the streusel topping for a different nutty profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Sweet Potatoes: Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture. Blend just until the ingredients are combined and smooth.
• Skipping the Beaten Eggs: Beating the eggs before adding them ensures they incorporate evenly into the mixture, contributing to a light texture.
• Uneven Topping Distribution: Spread the streusel topping evenly to ensure each serving has a balanced amount of crunchy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet potato casserole pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib, making it an excellent choice for holiday dinners. It also complements other side dishes like green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and stuffing.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Individual portions can be microwaved for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the streusel topping separately up to two days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble the casserole and bake as directed.

Is it possible to freeze the casserole?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the sweet potatoes and the topping may change upon thawing.

Can I reduce the sugar content?

You can adjust the sugar to your preference. Reducing the granulated sugar in the sweet potato mixture or using a sugar substitute can help lower the overall sweetness while maintaining the dish’s flavor.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk.

What if I don’t have pecans?
If pecans are unavailable, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch.

Conclusion

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for special occasions or any time you want to treat your loved ones to a decadent dish. Its creamy texture, sweet and nutty flavor, and irresistibly crunchy topping make it a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or just craving a sweet and savory side, this casserole is guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

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