Ruth's Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

This creamy Ruths Chris sweet potato casserole tops my holiday table every year and always disappears before the meal is over It is buttery rich with a crunchy brown sugar pecan topping and tastes like a comforting hug in casserole form

I made this casserole on a whim one Thanksgiving and it instantly became everyones favorite even my picky uncle asks for seconds

Ingredients

• Mashed sweet potatoes: give that natural sweetness and creamy texture Choose sweet potatoes that feel heavy and have smooth skin to avoid fibers
• Granulated sugar: brings out the flavors without overpowering Make sure it is fresh and lump free
• Melted butter: creates rich flavor Go for real unsalted butter for the best results
• Eggs: bind the casserole for a fluffy yet structured bite Use large eggs at room temperature for easier mixing
• Vanilla extract: adds warmth and rounds out the flavors Pure vanilla makes a difference here
• Milk: keeps the base luscious Whole milk works best or use a splash of cream for extra richness
• Chopped pecans: provide that signature crunch Choose fresh pecans and avoid any that have a bitter or stale smell
• Brown sugar: brings caramel notes Look for moist clumpfree brown sugar for best results
• Allpurpose flour: helps the topping become crisp Use freshly opened flour to avoid any off odors

StepbyStep Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a 9by13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking You want the casserole to slide out easily when serving

Mix the Sweet Potato Base:

In a large bowl combine the mashed sweet potatoes sugar melted butter beaten eggs vanilla and milk Whip this mixture until it is smooth and creamy free of any lumps This smooth texture is the key to an indulgent base

Spread the Base:

Evenly distribute the sweet potato mixture in your baking dish Use a spatula to level it out so everything bakes uniformly

Make the Pecan Topping:

In another bowl stir together chopped pecans brown sugar flour and melted butter until the mixture is crumbly Each piece of pecan should be well coated by the sugar and butter for even crunch

Add the Topping:

Gently sprinkle the pecan mixture over the sweet potato base covering every inch lightly patting so it adheres Do not press down too hard or it will lose its texture during baking

Bake the Casserole:

Place the dish in your preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp The edges should be bubbly Allow it to cool just enough so it sets before serving warm

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My favorite part of this dish is the buttery pecan topping which my grandmother always let me spoon on as a kid Every time I make this recipe it reminds me of giggling in her kitchen and sneaking bites before dinner

Storage Tips

Store any leftover sweet potato casserole covered in the refrigerator where it stays fresh for up to four days When ready to enjoy again reheat gently in a low oven for about fifteen minutes to restore the crunchy topping If you want to make ahead prepare the base and topping separately then combine and bake right before serving for maximum crispness

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a nutfree version swap the pecans for rolled oats and add a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds on top It still delivers a satisfying crunch For a dairyfree casserole use plantbased butter and unsweetened almond milk You can also reduce the sugar in the filling if your sweet potatoes are extra sweet naturally

Serving Suggestions

This casserole makes the perfect side for roasted turkey ham or even on its own as a vegetarian main course Leftovers are delicious at breakfast topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or paired with scrambled eggs The sweet and savory balance goes well with classic holiday flavors or simply as a comforting treat yearround

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Cultural and Historical Context

Sweet potato casserole is a beloved staple across Southern tables Traditionally it was a way to enjoy the harvest and stretch simple ingredients into something festive Ruths Chris made the dish famous by adding that decadent pecan crust which has become the gold standard for this side

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare the dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the sweet potato base and pecan topping separately, refrigerate overnight, then bake before serving for best texture.

→ Can I freeze leftover sweet potato casserole?

Leftovers freeze well. Cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze up to one month. Reheat gently in the oven for best results.

→ What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts or chopped almonds work well as substitutions for pecans, though flavor and texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I ensure a creamy sweet potato base?

Mash sweet potatoes thoroughly and mix with eggs, butter, and milk to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency before baking.

→ Is it possible to reduce the sugar content?

You may decrease the amount of sugar slightly or opt for a natural sweetener to adjust to taste without sacrificing flavor.