Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

If you’ve ever dined at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you know that their Sweet Potato Casserole is a standout side dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. This recipe brings the same delicious, rich flavors to your table, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress. With a sweet, buttery base and a crunchy, nutty topping, this casserole is a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort foods or just looking for a new recipe to try, this Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This casserole comes together quickly with minimal prep time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and nuts creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or as a comforting side for any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about this unique take on sweet potatoes.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the sugar levels and nut types to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole requires some essential tools that make the process easy and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the casserole.
• Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth mixture when blending the sweet potato filling.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

• 1 cup brown sugar (reduce sugar to suit)
• 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (canned or freshly cooked, just drain if using canned)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs (well beaten)
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)

For the Topping

• 1/3 cup flour
• 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans preferred)
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)

How to Make Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Topping Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, chopped nuts, and melted butter. Mix until the ingredients are well blended and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, vanilla extract, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the sweet potato mixture into a buttered baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the prepared crust mixture evenly over the surface of the sweet potato mixture.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Allow the casserole to set for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole!

How to Serve Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside roasted chicken for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Pair with grilled turkey to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

For Brunch

• Include it in a brunch spread, serving with fluffy scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.
• Top with whipped cream or marshmallows for a sweet twist that’s perfect for morning gatherings.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Present it as part of your holiday feast, alongside glazed carrots and cranberry sauce.
• Include it in potlucks where it can shine as a comforting favorite among guests.

With Salads

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Add sliced pears or apples to the salad for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

To ensure your Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes provide a richer flavor compared to canned options.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to reduce the sugar based on your personal taste preference; this allows you to customize the dish.
• Mix thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even texture throughout the casserole.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to set after baking; this helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding different nuts or even coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste balances well with the sweetness of the casserole.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and savory, these mashed potatoes create a comforting combination on your plate.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with almonds add crunch and freshness.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots enhance the overall sweetness while providing vibrant color.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread muffins make an excellent accompaniment.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast against the richness of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole, it’s easy to stumble over some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Cold ingredients can cause the mixture to be lumpy.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are critical. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar and liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients.
• Overmixing the sweet potato mixture: Mixing too much can lead to a dense casserole. Blend until just combined for the best texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps flavors meld. Don’t rush this step for optimal taste.
• Neglecting topping distribution: Ensure an even layer of the nut topping. This guarantees every bite has that delicious crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: For a quick reheat, use a non-stick pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole.

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just cook and mash them before mixing into the recipe.

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour in the topping.

What nuts work best for Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole?

Pecans are preferred, but walnuts or almonds also add great flavor and texture.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day before and refrigerate, then bake it just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Ruth Chris’ Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that offers both comfort and elegance. Its rich flavors make it perfect for any gathering or family meal. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste!