Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Holidays: A classic side dish that feels festive and indulgent.
- Simple to Make: The recipe uses straightforward ingredients and easy steps.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans is always a hit.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness or add spices for a personal touch.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance to save time on busy days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Sweet Potato Base
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Less Sweet: Reduce sugar in the sweet potato base to 3/4 cup.
- Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the base for a warm, holiday-inspired twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute chopped pecans with oats or a nut-free crumble topping.
- Vegan Version: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative, eggs with flax eggs, and milk with almond or oat milk.
- Individual Portions: Bake in ramekins for a personal touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sweet potato base and topping separately, assemble, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh before serving.
2. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Absolutely. Just ensure they’re drained and mashed well before using.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
4. Can I add marshmallows to the topping?
Yes! Add mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
5. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The topping should be golden brown and crisp, and the base should be set but creamy.
6. What can I use instead of pecans?
Walnuts or slivered almonds work well, or opt for a nut-free crumble made with oats.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish or two separate dishes and adjust the baking time slightly.
8. What type of sweet potatoes are best?
Use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, like Garnet or Jewel, for their creamy texture and natural sweetness.
9. Can I reduce the sugar content?
Yes, adjust the sugar in both the base and topping to suit your taste.
10. Is this casserole served as a side dish or dessert?
Traditionally, it’s a side dish, but its sweetness makes it versatile enough for dessert too.
Conclusion
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Its creamy sweet potato base paired with a buttery pecan topping makes it a standout on the holiday table. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant classic or simply looking for a comforting side dish, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
PrintRuth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is a holiday favorite! With a creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or bringing a dish to share, this classic casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a less sweet version, reduce sugar in the base to 3/4 cup.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Substitute pecans with oats or a nut-free crumble for a nut-free version.
- Prepare ahead by assembling and refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American