Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

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Absolutely! Here’s a comprehensive and heartfelt version of the famous Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole—complete with everything you asked for: a beautiful introduction, history, ingredients, detailed methods, tips, why people love it, and a cozy conclusion. 🧡🍠

🍠 Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe

A timeless classic of comfort, love, and unforgettable flavor

🌟 Introduction:

The Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole has become one of the most beloved side dishes served at the upscale steakhouse chain, Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Though sweet potatoes are often relegated to Thanksgiving tables, this dish brings them into the spotlight—year-round. A creamy, buttery sweet potato base is crowned with a crunchy brown sugar and pecan topping, creating a contrast of textures and an indulgent, dessert-like quality. It’s no wonder so many people make this casserole the star of the meal, not just a side.

🏛️ A Little History:

Ruth’s Chris Steak House was founded in 1965 by Ruth Fertel, a single mother who mortgaged her home to buy a small steakhouse in New Orleans. Over time, the restaurant expanded into a national chain, known not only for its sizzling steaks but also for its unexpectedly addictive side dishes—chief among them, this sweet potato casserole.

While sweet potato casseroles have deep roots in Southern cooking (often with marshmallows on top), Ruth’s Chris elevated the concept with a pecan streusel topping, adding both a buttery crunch and a touch of elegance. It’s since become legendary—often copied, never beaten.

🛒 Ingredients:

Sweet Potato Mixture:

  • 3 cups mashed cooked sweet potatoes (about 3–4 medium sweet potatoes)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Pecan Crumb Topping:

  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened

🍽️ Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

  1. Cook sweet potatoes: Peel and cut into chunks. Boil in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain and mash until smooth.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Topping

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans.
  2. Cut in the softened butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish and smooth the top.
  3. Evenly sprinkle the pecan topping over the sweet potato mixture.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

❤️ Why People Love It:

  1. Dessert disguised as a side – It’s sweet enough to be dessert but served with the main meal!
  2. Perfect texture combo – Creamy base + crispy topping = satisfaction in every bite.
  3. Versatile – Pairs with turkey, ham, roast beef, or even a vegetarian holiday spread.
  4. Nostalgic – Brings cozy, homey vibes and holiday memories to the table.
  5. Crowd pleaser – It’s rare to find someone who doesn’t go back for seconds.

🔁 Formation & Variations:

  • Mini Casseroles: Make them in ramekins for individual servings—perfect for dinner parties!
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or a GF flour blend for the topping.
  • Nut-Free Option: Sub oats or crushed cornflakes for pecans for crunch without allergens.
  • Spiced Version: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or a pinch of clove to the base for a fall-inspired twist.

💡 Pro Tips:

  • You can make this a day ahead—just assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
  • Want it less sweet? Reduce sugar in the base to ½ cup and topping to ¾ cup.
  • Use roasted sweet potatoes for deeper, caramelized flavor.

💞 Lovers of the Dish Say:

“I order steak just for this side!”
— Tom, Nashville

“I served this last Thanksgiving, and now my family demands it every year.”
— Maya, New Orleans

“Tastes like fall in a bite. I could eat the topping by itself!”
— Liam, Chicago

🧾 Conclusion:

The Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a warm, sweet, memory-making experience that brings people together. Whether you serve it at your next holiday gathering, Sunday dinner, or just as a cozy autumn treat, it’s bound to become a tradition. It’s a dish for food lovers, for memory seekers, and for anyone who believes that sometimes, the side dish is the main event.

Enjoy, share, and savor every bite. 🧡🍽️

Would you like this as a printable PDF, or need help scaling it up for a crowd (like Thanksgiving for 20)?

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