Ruth’s Chris Steak House is renowned for its high-end dining experience, but one of its most beloved menu items isn’t a steak—it’s the Sweet Potato Casserole. This indulgent side dish is a perfect combination of creamy, mashed sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan topping, making it a must-have for special occasions, particularly during the holiday season.
Unlike traditional sweet potato dishes, which often rely on marshmallows, this casserole stands out for its perfectly balanced sweetness, buttery richness, and textural contrast. Whether you’re a fan of Ruth’s Chris or just looking to elevate your holiday table, mastering this recipe at home is easier than you think.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from the history of this iconic dish to a step-by-step recipe, tips for perfection, and even dietary-friendly variations. Let’s dive into the world of sweet potato decadence!
The History of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
Ruth’s Chris Steak House, founded in 1965 by Ruth Fertel in New Orleans, has become synonymous with luxurious dining. While the restaurant is best known for its sizzling steaks, it’s their Sweet Potato Casserole that has garnered a cult following among diners.
This iconic dish debuted as part of their menu to offer a hearty and indulgent side that could stand up to the richness of their steaks. Over time, it became a holiday favorite, celebrated for its blend of buttery mashed sweet potatoes and the crunchy, sweet pecan topping.
The casserole’s popularity has led to countless attempts to recreate it at home, and today, we’ll share a foolproof way to enjoy this signature dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Breakdown
The secret to the irresistible flavor of Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Let’s break them down:
1. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes provide the creamy, starchy base of the dish. Their natural sweetness intensifies when baked, making them ideal for this recipe. For the best results, choose fresh, medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skin.
2. Butter
Butter adds richness to the sweet potato mash and the pecan topping. High-quality unsalted butter is recommended for better flavor control.
3. Sugar
This recipe uses two types of sugar:
- Granulated Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramel-like notes to the crunchy topping.
4. Eggs
Eggs act as a binder, giving the casserole structure while keeping it light and fluffy.
5. Heavy Cream
A splash of heavy cream ensures the sweet potato mixture is creamy and indulgent. Milk can be used as a substitute for a lighter version.
6. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm, aromatic touch.
7. Pecans
Pecans form the signature topping, providing crunch and nuttiness that perfectly balances the creamy base.
8. Flour
Flour in the topping binds the pecans and sugar together, creating the irresistible crumble. Use gluten-free flour if needed.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Here’s the complete recipe to recreate Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole at home.
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Base:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and mash until smooth.
2. Mix the Sweet Potato Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
3. Make the Pecan Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the pecans, brown sugar, flour, and softened butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
4. Bake:
Bake the casserole for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp. Serve warm.
For a step-by-step visual guide, check out this helpful recipe resource from AllRecipes.
Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole at home is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is as good as (or better than) the original:
1. Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes
Canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh ones yield a creamier, more flavorful result. Bake or boil them until fork-tender for easy mashing.
2. Don’t Overmix
When combining the sweet potato mixture, avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.
3. Balance the Sweetness
Adjust the sugar levels to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the granulated sugar in the base or the brown sugar in the topping.
4. Prepare in Advance
You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh before serving.
5. Toast the Pecans
For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them into the topping.
Variations and Dietary Modifications
1. Vegan Version
- Replace Butter: Use plant-based butter alternatives.
- Substitute Eggs: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Swap Cream: Coconut milk or almond milk works beautifully.
2. Gluten-Free Option
Replace all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
3. Lower-Calorie Alternative
- Use reduced-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
- Cut the sugar by half or use a natural sweetener like stevia.
- Use less butter or replace it with unsweetened applesauce.
Serving Suggestions
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with many dishes:
- For Thanksgiving or Christmas: Serve alongside roast turkey, honey-glazed ham, or prime rib.
- For Everyday Meals: Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or a simple salad for balance.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for a festive look.
Part 8: Storing and Reheating
Storing Leftovers:
- Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tips:
- Assemble the casserole but skip baking. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 325°F oven until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Marshmallows Instead of Pecans?
Yes! If you prefer a more traditional sweet potato dish, replace the pecan topping with mini marshmallows. Add them during the last 10 minutes of baking.
2. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for best results.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
Milk, half-and-half, or non-dairy options like almond milk can work as substitutes.
4. Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?
Yes! The creamy sweetness appeals to kids, and you can adjust the sugar if needed.
5. Can I Double the Recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Use a larger baking dish or two separate dishes for larger gatherings.
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a dish that perfectly balances comfort and elegance. Whether you’re recreating it for a special holiday or simply indulging in a restaurant-style experience at home, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, it’s no surprise this dish has become a timeless favorite.
For more inspiration, check out the official Ruth’s Chris website or explore creative twists from Food Network’s Sweet Potato Recipes.