Ruth's Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe : Decadent Holiday Side

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe : Decadent Holiday Side offers a luscious, comforting dish, perfect for festive gatherings and memorable meals.

This delightful sweet potato casserole elevates a classic side dish into a truly indulgent experience. Featuring tender sweet potatoes blended with warm spices and topped with a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel, it’s a symphony of textures and flavors. The dish promises a harmonious balance of sweetness and nutty richness.

Imagine the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth sensation of the sweet potato base, punctuated by the satisfying crunch of the pecan topping. Aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg fill the air as it bakes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The contrasting textures and temperatures make each bite a delightful surprise.

Sweet potato casserole holds a special place in many American holiday traditions, often gracing Thanksgiving and Christmas tables. It represents warmth, comfort, and shared moments with loved ones. This version, inspired by Ruth’s Chris Steak House, takes the familiar classic to new heights of decadence and flavor.

The recipe is designed to be approachable for home cooks, with straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients. Its adaptable nature allows for customization based on personal preferences, such as adjusting the level of sweetness or adding different nuts to the topping. It is also perfect to make ahead of time for a stress-free holiday feast.

While the pecan streusel topping is a common variation, some versions incorporate marshmallows or other crunchy elements. Popular pairings include roasted turkey, ham, or other savory dishes, creating a well-rounded and satisfying holiday meal. Regional twists might involve adding a touch of maple syrup or bourbon for extra depth of flavor.

Ready to experience this holiday classic? Dive into the detailed recipe and create a memorable side dish that will impress your family and friends. Every step is crafted to achieve that perfect Ruth’s Chris experience at home.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: Holiday Recipes, Side Dishes
• Courses: Side Dishes
• Cuisines: American
• Keywords: Sweet Potato, Casserole, Pecan, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Holiday, Decadent

Estimated Cost: $18.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 8-10 people

Ingredients

Sweet Potato Layer

• 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Pecan Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
• Step 2: Mash and Mix: In a large bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
• Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, combine flour and brown sugar. Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped pecans.
• Step 4: Assemble and Bake: Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
• Step 5: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato mixture is set.
• Step 6: Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.

For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. To add a hint of spice, include a pinch of ground ginger in the sweet potato mixture.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 1/10 of the casserole):

Essential Cooking Equipment

The following kitchen tools and equipment are necessary for preparing this recipe:

1. Large pot for boiling sweet potatoes
2. 9×13 inch baking dish
3. Large mixing bowl
4. Potato masher or electric mixer
5. Pastry blender or fork (for cutting in butter)
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Oven

Variations

Numerous adjustments and adaptations can be made to personalize the casserole:

• Ingredient Swaps: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup or honey for a more natural sweetener. Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds in the topping. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
• Regional Twists: Incorporate a tablespoon of bourbon or rum into the sweet potato mixture for an added layer of flavor. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
• Dietary Adjustments: To reduce the sugar content, decrease the amount of sugar in both the sweet potato layer and topping. Gluten-free flour can be used in the pecan topping for individuals with gluten sensitivities. A lighter version can be made by reducing the amount of butter.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet potato casserole is ideally served warm as a side dish. It complements a variety of main courses, especially during holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or a vegetarian main dish. The casserole’s sweetness pairs well with savory flavors. It can also be offered as part of a buffet or potluck.

Storage Tips

To preserve freshness, the casserole should be stored properly. Leftover casserole can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350F (175C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. It can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can the casserole be made ahead of time?

  Answer: Yes, the sweet potato mixture and pecan topping can be prepared separately a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble before baking.

• Question 2: The pecan topping is browning too quickly. What should I do?

  Answer: Cover the casserole with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent the topping from burning.

• Question 3: Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

  Answer: While fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well before using.

• Question 4: How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

  Answer: Ensure the sweet potatoes are thoroughly drained after boiling. Also, avoid overmixing the sweet potato mixture.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe: Decadent Holiday Side is more than just a side dish; its a delightful experience. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, it brings comfort and joy to any holiday table.

Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply want a taste of nostalgia, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to adjust the sweetness, try different nuts, or add a splash of bourbon to make it your own. Your kitchen, your rules!

So, why not give this amazing casserole a try? We’re confident you’ll love it. After trying the recipe, dont forget to share your results and personal tweaks with us. We would love to know the ways you made this recipe even better.

Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out!