Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole: A Celebration of Comfort

The holidays, for me, have always been synonymous with the aroma of warm spices and the comforting embrace of a well-loved casserole. While many dishes grace the festive table, there’s one that always calls me back – Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole. I remember a particularly chaotic Thanksgiving morning years ago, wrestling with recipe conversions and the overwhelming pressure of getting everything just right. Tripling the recipe felt like a monumental task, and the website’s original measurements were a dizzying puzzle. But as the rich, sweet scent began to fill the kitchen, all that stress melted away, replaced by the simple joy of creating something truly special for loved ones. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a testament to indulgence and tradition.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick look at what makes this recipe so special:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 18–24
• Yield: 1 (13×9 inch) casserole
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

This recipe calls for quality ingredients to create that signature rich and decadent flavor.

For the Sweet Potato Mixture:

• 9 cups mashed sweet potatoes (or 80 ounces canned yams)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 6 large eggs, well beaten
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted (equivalent to 1 ½ sticks)

For the Topping:

• 3 cups packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted (equivalent to 2 sticks)
• 3 cups pecans, finely chopped

Equipment Needed

To bring this delightful casserole to life, you’ll want to have the following on hand:

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• 13×9 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Lightly coat a 13×9 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Combine the Sweet Potato Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, well-beaten eggs, and melted butter. It’s important to add these ingredients in the order listed for optimal integration.
3. Whip to Fluffiness: Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the mixture thoroughly. The goal here is to create a light and fluffy sweet potato base. Continue mixing until the ingredients are well combined and the texture is airy.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Gently pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared 13×9 inch baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.
5. Initial Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Cooling and Refrigeration Option: After the initial 30-minute bake, the sweet potato mixture will be partially set. If you are preparing this casserole ahead of time, this is the point where you can cover the dish (once it has cooled slightly to prevent condensation from forming and making the topping soggy) and refrigerate it. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before proceeding with the topping.
7. Prepare the Topping: While the casserole bakes or while it’s cooling if you’re prepping ahead, prepare the delightful pecan topping. In a separate bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, melted butter, and finely chopped pecans. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined and form a crumbly mixture.
8. Add the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the prepared topping mixture over the surface of the partially baked sweet potato casserole. Ensure an even distribution for a consistent crunchy layer.
9. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato mixture is fully set.
10. Resting is Key: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to set for at least 30 minutes before serving. This crucial resting period allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to firm up, making it easier to serve and ensuring the perfect texture.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a chef, I always look for ways to elevate a dish and ensure perfection. Here are a few insights to make your Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole even better:

• Sweet Potato Perfection: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh sweet potatoes if possible. Roast them until tender rather than boiling, as this concentrates their natural sugars and yields a richer flavor. If using canned yams, ensure they are packed in water or light syrup, not heavy syrup, as this can make the casserole too sweet. Mash them thoroughly to avoid lumps.
• The Power of Melted Butter: When melting butter for both the filling and the topping, it’s important to use it while it’s still liquid. This helps to create a cohesive mixture and ensures even distribution of fat, which contributes to the dish’s rich mouthfeel.
• Topping Consistency: The topping should be crumbly. If it seems too dry, you can add another teaspoon or two of melted butter. If it’s too wet, a tablespoon more of flour can help. The goal is a texture that crumbles easily but holds together slightly.
• Make-Ahead Magic: As mentioned in the instructions, this casserole is a fantastic candidate for make-ahead prep. Baking it partially and then refrigerating it means all you need to do on the day of your gathering is add the topping and finish baking. This is a lifesaver during busy holiday seasons.
• Oven Variations: Ovens can be finicky! Keep an eye on the casserole during the final 10 minutes of baking. If the topping is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This sweet potato casserole is a star on any table, whether it’s a holiday feast or a comforting Sunday dinner.

Serving:
Serve the casserole warm, allowing it to set for the recommended 30 minutes before scooping. The warm, tender sweet potato base topped with the crunchy, nutty pecan crust is a delightful contrast in textures. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, or can stand on its own as a sweet and savory side.

Storage:
Leftover sweet potato casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole dish in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	738 kcal
Calories from Fat
Total Fat	31.5 g	48%
Saturated Fat	13.5 g	67%
Cholesterol	109.5 mg	36%
Sodium	969.9 mg	40%
Total Carbohydrate	109.7 g	36%
Dietary Fiber	6.3 g	25%
Sugars	79.5 g	318%
Protein	9.2 g	18%

(Note: The % Daily Value is based on a 2,000 calorie diet.)

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic recipe is divine, feel free to experiment:

• Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, omit the pecans from the topping. You can substitute with toasted shredded coconut or a sprinkle of granola for a delightful crunch.
• Spiced-Up Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the sweet potato mixture for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
• Bourbon Kiss: A tablespoon or two of bourbon or dark rum added to the sweet potato mixture can impart a subtle, sophisticated flavor.
• Lighter Topping: For a slightly less decadent topping, you can reduce the amount of butter slightly or use a combination of butter and a neutral oil like canola.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin instead of sweet potatoes?
A: While this recipe is specifically for sweet potato casserole, canned pumpkin can be used to make a similar dish. You would need to adjust the flavor profile as pumpkin is less sweet and has a different texture than sweet potatoes.

Q: How do I ensure my sweet potatoes are mashed smoothly?
A: After cooking your sweet potatoes (roasting or boiling until very tender), drain them thoroughly and mash them while they are still warm. Using a potato ricer or food mill will yield the smoothest texture.

Q: Is it necessary to let the casserole rest before serving?
A: Yes, allowing the casserole to rest is crucial. It helps the casserole set and firm up, preventing it from being too runny when served and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Q: Can I make the topping ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the topping mixture a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You may need to break up any clumps before sprinkling it over the casserole.

Q: My casserole seems a bit too sweet, is there anything I can do?
A: The sweetness is a hallmark of this dish. However, for future bakes, you could slightly reduce the sugar in the sweet potato mixture. Adding a pinch of salt can also help balance sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Ruth’s Chris-inspired Sweet Potato Casserole is a testament to the power of comfort food. It’s rich, decadent, and undeniably satisfying – a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe offers a rewarding experience, filling your home with an aroma that promises deliciousness. I encourage you to give this triple batch a try, share it with your loved ones, and savor every spoonful. It’s a recipe that truly deserves a place of honor on any celebratory table.