If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances creamy sweetness and that irresistible crunchy topping, then Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need on your table. This beloved casserole takes humble sweet potatoes and transforms them into a luscious, comforting side dish bursting with warm flavors and textures that everyone will rave about. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy family dinner, this recipe delivers that classic Southern-inspired goodness with an elegant touch that truly shines.

Ruth's Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but smart with ingredients that each play a vital role, from the natural sweetness of the potatoes to the rich, buttery crunch of the pecan topping. Every component enhances the casserole’s taste, texture, and inviting golden color, making it easy to create something truly scrumptious.

3 cups mashed sweet potatoes: The creamy base packed with natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the richness of the potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a subtle warm aroma that deepens the overall flavor profile.
2 large eggs (beaten): Helps bind the ingredients for that smooth and luscious texture.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and ensures the casserole is silky and moist.
1 cup light brown sugar (packed): For the topping’s warm caramel sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the topping, helping it turn golden and crisp.
1 cup chopped pecans: Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that makes each bite special.
1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the topping and adds a rich, buttery finish.

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out with beautiful edges after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Sweet Potato Base

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating that rich, velvety base that’s the hallmark of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe.

Step 3: Spread and Prepare Topping

Evenly spread the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and chopped pecans. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the topping forms coarse crumbs, giving you that perfect texture contrast between creamy and crunchy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato layer, then place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is heated all the way through. Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before serving so the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your casserole presentation with a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth and aroma. A few fresh rosemary sprigs can add a lovely pop of color and a subtle herbal note that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with hearty main dishes like roast turkey, glazed ham, or seared steaks. For a balanced plate, serve alongside crisp green beans or a vibrant mixed greens salad to keep textures fresh and flavors varied.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at your dinner table. Alternatively, scoop it into a decorative baking dish and top with pecan halves arranged in a pattern for a show-stopping centerpiece that invites compliments before the first bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and textures intact so you can enjoy every bit just as much the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes perfectly. Just assemble the casserole as usual but don’t bake it. Wrap it securely with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake according to the original instructions.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This prevents the topping from drying out while keeping the sweet potato base creamy and warm.

FAQs

Can I add spices to the sweet potato mixture?

Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg elevates the flavor and adds a cozy, aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness.

What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?

You can swap pecans for toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions to maintain that crunchy topping without the nuts.

Is this recipe suitable for making ahead for holiday meals?

Yes, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish! Prepare it the day before, refrigerate, and then bake fresh on the day of your celebration for optimal taste.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned ones in a pinch. Just ensure you drain them well and mash thoroughly before mixing.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The topping should be golden brown and crisp, and the filling should be hot and bubbly around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out warm.

Final Thoughts

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and the simple pleasures of good food shared with loved ones. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become a favorite that you reach for time and time again. So grab those sweet potatoes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to delight everyone at your table with this timeless classic!