Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Add a little restaurant flair to your holiday table! This recipe beautifully recreates the ever-popular Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, right down to the praline-style topping. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any festive occasion, this dish combines sweet potatoes and rich toppings to create a comforting side that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes with a crispy praline topping creates a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or an everyday dinner, this casserole fits perfectly on any table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its sweet flavor and unique texture make it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
• Restaurant-Quality: Enjoy the taste of a gourmet dish at home without needing advanced culinary skills.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. The right equipment can simplify the process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Casserole dish
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to better results. Using proper measurements helps achieve the desired sweetness and texture in your casserole.

Ingredients

Add a little restaurant flair to your holiday table! This recipe beautifully recreates the ever-popular sweet potato casserole from Ruth’s Chris Steak House, right down to the praline-style topping.

For the Praline Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ packed cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans (or coarsely chopped walnuts)

For the Sweet Potato Base:

• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (fully cooked)

How to Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Position oven racks so that casserole dish can sit in center of oven. Lightly grease bottom and sides of casserole dish with neutral cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Praline Topping

1. Add ¼ cup unsalted butter to a small microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave butter in 15-second increments, stirring well between each, until melted but not burnt. Carefully remove bowl from microwave.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine ¾ packed cup brown sugar, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans, and melted butter. Stir until ingredients form a crumbly mixture. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Sweet Potato Base

1. Crack 1 large egg into a large mixing bowl. Whisk vigorously until well-beaten.
2. In another small microwave-safe bowl, add another ¼ cup unsalted butter. Microwave in 15-second increments until melted but not burnt; let cool slightly after removing from microwave.
3. To the large bowl with beaten egg, add melted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes. Stir until fully combined into a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Assemble Casserole

Transfer the sweet potato mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle praline crumble over top of the sweet potato layer evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place casserole dish in preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the sweet potato layer is hot and praline topping is browned. If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Serve

Once ready, carefully remove from oven and let rest for about 10 to 20 minutes before serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, perfect for sharing with family and friends!

How to Serve Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful addition to any meal, especially during festive occasions. The rich flavors and sweet praline topping make it a favorite among guests. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

For the Holiday Feast

• Pair with Roast Turkey: This casserole complements the savory flavors of roast turkey beautifully, providing a sweet contrast.
• Serve alongside Green Beans: Crisp green beans add freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy texture of the casserole.

As a Comfort Food Side

• Enjoy with Beef Stew: The sweetness of the casserole pairs wonderfully with hearty beef stew, making for a cozy meal.
• Accompany with Grilled Chicken: Grilled chicken adds a lighter protein option that works well with the richness of the sweet potatoes.

For Potluck Gatherings

• Offer at Family Gatherings: This dish is always a hit at family get-togethers, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the table.
• Use as a Side for Barbecue: The sweet potato casserole can act as a delightful counterpoint to smoky barbecue dishes.

How to Perfect Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Creating the perfect Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time.

• Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Freshly cooked sweet potatoes yield better flavor and texture than canned options.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Adjust Sugar Levels: Taste your sweet potato mixture before baking; you can adjust sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven fully; an accurate temperature is crucial for even baking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 10-20 minutes after baking helps set its structure and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole pairs well with various dishes. Here are some great side options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a slightly bitter note that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
2. Creamed Spinach: A classic side that offers creaminess and depth, enhancing the overall meal experience.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with the casserole’s texture.
4. Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins offer a comforting side that works harmoniously with the casserole.
5. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy gratin adds richness and balances the sweetness of the sweet potato dish.
6. Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the casserole while adding color and nutrients to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Using inaccurate measurements can alter the texture and flavor of your casserole. Always use proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Boldly skipping the butter melting step: Failing to melt the butter can result in uneven mixing. Make sure to microwave it correctly and allow it to cool slightly before adding.
• Boldly over-mixing sweet potatoes: Over-mixing can lead to a gummy texture. Stir gently until just combined for a smooth consistency.
• Boldly neglecting the oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may cause uneven cooking. Always preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit before baking.
• Boldly not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow resting time after baking for better slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.
• item Cover with plastic wrap or foil to preserve freshness.

Freezing Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

• item Freeze in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• item Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
• item Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350° Fahrenheit, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute increments until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole.

How do I make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole healthier?

You can substitute some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or reduce the amount of butter used without compromising taste.

Can I prepare Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

What should I serve with Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole?

This dish pairs well with roasted chicken, turkey, or even as part of a holiday buffet spread alongside other side dishes.

Can I customize Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in different nuts or sprinkle with mini marshmallows for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful addition to any meal, especially during holidays. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it appealing to all palates. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or spices for a unique twist. Try it out, and enjoy this restaurant-quality dish at home!