Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe: If you’ve ever dined at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you know the experience is about more than just steak. This iconic restaurant chain is famous for its sizzling beef served on buttered plates, but what often surprises first-timers is how much attention their side dishes receive. Among all the sides, one stands out as a true star—the Sweet Potato Casserole. It’s not just a side; it’s almost a dessert in disguise, with a velvety sweet potato base topped with a crunchy pecan crust.
This casserole has gained a cult following because it perfectly blends comfort and elegance. While mashed sweet potatoes can often be bland or overly sweet, Ruth’s Chris strikes the right balance. The creaminess of the potato mixture harmonizes with the buttery pecan topping, creating a texture and flavor contrast that’s simply irresistible.
What makes it truly special is its versatility. You’ll find it on holiday tables—especially Thanksgiving and Christmas—but it’s also an excellent choice for Sunday family dinners or potluck gatherings. Its rich, inviting flavor turns any meal into a memorable feast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is simple enough to follow yet luxurious enough to impress your guests.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need—from the ingredients and tools to a clear, step-by-step method that ensures your casserole tastes exactly like the one at Ruth’s Chris. By the end, you’ll not only have a copycat recipe but also a dish that could easily steal the spotlight from the main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s be honest—there are countless sweet potato casserole recipes floating around the internet. So, why should you stick with the Ruth’s Chris version? Here’s why:
First, it offers the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The sweet potato mixture isn’t cloyingly sweet, thanks to the careful use of sugar and butter. The topping provides a satisfying crunch, balancing out the creaminess underneath. Unlike marshmallow-topped casseroles, this version feels more sophisticated, making it perfect for both family-style dinners and formal occasions.
Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Even people who usually skip sweet potato dishes find themselves going back for seconds of this one. The combination of flavors appeals to adults and children alike, making it an excellent side for large gatherings.
Third, it’s easy to make ahead of time. You can prepare the sweet potato base and topping separately a day before your event, then assemble and bake it fresh. This is a huge win for anyone juggling multiple holiday dishes.
Finally, it’s comfort food at its finest. Imagine scooping into the casserole and getting a bite of creamy, buttery sweet potato followed by the crunchy, nutty topping—it’s like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe bridges the gap between a hearty side dish and a decadent dessert, giving you the best of both worlds.
In short, this casserole is more than just food—it’s a memory maker. Once you serve it, don’t be surprised if your guests start requesting it year after year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sweet Potato Mixture
To recreate the authentic Ruth’s Chris experience, you’ll need:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 5 medium sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Substitution Options:
- Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Cut back on sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish.
- Swap butter with ghee or vegan butter if necessary.
These ingredients create the rich, custard-like base that makes this casserole famous.
For the Crunchy Topping
The signature of this casserole is its pecan crust, which requires:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
Alternatives to Consider:
- For a nut-free version, substitute rolled oats or crushed graham crackers.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
The topping is what sets this dish apart from the rest. It gives a delightful crunch with every bite, making the casserole irresistible.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Large pot (for boiling sweet potatoes)
- Potato masher or electric mixer (for mashing)
- Mixing bowls (one for the potato base, one for the topping)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
- Spatula and whisk
Optional but Helpful Tools:
- Food processor (for an ultra-smooth potato mixture)
- Hand mixer (for quicker blending)
- Oven thermometer (to ensure even baking)
Having everything ready before you start will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1 – Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
The foundation of this dish is the sweet potatoes, so getting them right is crucial. Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly, then peel and cut them into chunks for faster cooking. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, which usually takes about 15–20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily slides through the pieces.
Once cooked, drain the water completely. Excess moisture can make the mixture watery, so let the potatoes sit for a few minutes to steam dry. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture later.
If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider roasting the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars, giving the casserole a deeper, richer taste. Simply wrap them in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about an hour, then scoop out the soft flesh.
At this stage, your sweet potatoes are ready to be mashed and turned into the luscious base that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 2 – Mashing and Mixing
Now that your sweet potatoes are soft and tender, it’s time to transform them into a smooth, velvety base. Place the cooked potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Using a potato masher or electric hand mixer, mash until there are no lumps left. The smoother the mash, the creamier your casserole will taste.
Next, add in the melted butter, sugar, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Each ingredient plays a role here:
- The butter adds richness.
- The sugar balances the natural earthiness of the potatoes.
- The cream brings a luxurious texture.
- The eggs act as a binder, ensuring the casserole sets properly.
- The vanilla enhances sweetness and adds warmth.
Mix everything until well combined. You should end up with a silky, custard-like mixture that’s fragrant and flavorful. If you prefer a lighter texture, whip the mixture for a couple of extra minutes with a hand mixer—this adds air and makes the base fluffier.
Pro tip: Taste the mixture before baking. If you like it less sweet, reduce the sugar slightly. If you want more depth, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Once satisfied, set the bowl aside while you prepare the topping.
Step 3 – Preparing the Topping
The topping is what makes this dish legendary. It’s not just any crust—it’s a buttery, nutty, caramelized layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweet potatoes.
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, softened butter, and chopped pecans. Use a fork or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The pecans should be coated in the buttery sugar blend but still chunky enough to provide a satisfying crunch.
This topping is versatile, too. Want to make it a little more festive? Add shredded coconut or a dash of cinnamon. Hosting someone with nut allergies? Swap pecans with rolled oats or crushed graham crackers—it won’t be exactly the same, but it will still deliver that golden crunch on top.
The key here is balance. You want just enough topping to cover the surface of the casserole without overwhelming it. Too much, and it may turn overly sweet; too little, and you’ll miss the signature crunch. A nice, even layer is the secret to perfection.
Step 4 – Assembling the Casserole
Now comes the fun part—putting everything together. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the sweet potato mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
Next, sprinkle the pecan topping mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes. Make sure it covers the entire surface, so every bite gets both creamy and crunchy layers. Don’t press it down too firmly; leaving it loose allows the topping to bake into a golden, crumbly crust.
At this stage, your casserole is ready for the oven. But here’s a great tip: If you’re making it ahead, you can stop here. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just bring it to room temperature and pop it in the oven. This makes it a lifesaver during the busy holiday season.
Step 5 – Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole on the middle rack and bake uncovered for about 30–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly caramelized.
As the casserole bakes, your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma of butter, toasted pecans, and sweet potatoes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is crisp and the edges of the sweet potato base start to bubble slightly.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This short resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes the dish easier to slice.
When you scoop into it, you’ll get the perfect balance of soft, creamy sweet potatoes with a crunchy, sweet topping. It’s rich, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable—just like the version served at Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
Tips for the Best Results
Making this casserole isn’t difficult, but a few extra touches can take it from “good” to “restaurant-worthy.” Here are some tried-and-true tips:
- Choose the right sweet potatoes – Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth skins. The orange-fleshed variety (often called yams in U.S. grocery stores) delivers the best flavor and color.
- Roast instead of boil (optional) – While boiling is faster, roasting caramelizes the natural sugars, giving your casserole a deeper, more complex flavor. If you have time, try roasting them whole at 400°F until soft.
- Don’t skip the salt – A little salt in the sweet potato mixture makes the sweetness pop. It balances the flavors, preventing the casserole from tasting like pure dessert.
- Make it ahead – This casserole is the ultimate make-ahead side dish. Prepare both the base and topping a day before, then assemble and bake just before serving.
- Use fresh pecans – Since the topping is such a big part of the dish, stale nuts can ruin the flavor. Fresh, crunchy pecans make a world of difference.
- Watch your oven – All ovens heat differently. Start checking around the 30-minute mark. The topping should be golden brown, not burnt.
These small steps ensure your casserole tastes just like—or maybe even better than—the one from Ruth’s Chris.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole shines brightest on holiday tables, but it’s versatile enough for many occasions. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Holiday feasts: It’s a natural companion to roast turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib. Its sweetness balances savory meats beautifully.
- Steak dinners: Just like at Ruth’s Chris, serve it alongside a perfectly cooked steak. The richness of the casserole pairs well with bold, meaty flavors.
- Casual family meals: Add it to Sunday dinner with roasted chicken and green beans. It elevates even the simplest meal into something special.
- Potluck gatherings: Since it travels well and can be reheated, it’s an ideal dish to share at family get-togethers or church suppers.
You can serve it directly from the baking dish for a rustic look, or transfer portions into ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Either way, it’s guaranteed to draw compliments.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), storing and reheating is easy.
- Refrigerator: Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. For individual servings, the microwave works fine, but the oven helps the topping regain its crunch.
Pro tip: If the topping softens in the fridge, add a sprinkle of fresh pecans before reheating to bring back that delightful crunch.
Variations of the Recipe
One of the best things about this casserole is its adaptability. You can stick with the classic version or put your own spin on it. Here are some fun variations:
- Marshmallow Topping: Swap the pecan topping with mini marshmallows for a nostalgic twist. Bake until gooey and golden brown.
- Savory Twist: Reduce the sugar in the base and add herbs like rosemary or thyme. This creates a side dish that leans more savory than sweet.
- Nut-Free Version: Use crushed cornflakes, oats, or graham crackers instead of pecans.
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs, and cream with coconut milk. The result is just as indulgent.
- Spiced Version: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice to the sweet potato mixture for a holiday-inspired flavor.
With these tweaks, you can customize the casserole to fit your family’s preferences and dietary needs while keeping the spirit of the original.
Nutritional Information
While this dish is indulgent, it’s worth knowing what’s inside each serving. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 10 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~370 |
| Carbohydrates | ~48g |
| Protein | ~4g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Fiber | ~4g |
| Sugar | ~25g |
Sweet potatoes themselves are nutrient-dense, packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. However, the butter and sugar make this more of a treat than an everyday dish. Still, for special occasions, it’s absolutely worth it!
FAQs about Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
1. Can I make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! That’s one of the best things about this recipe. You can prepare the sweet potato mixture and the topping separately, store them in the fridge overnight, and assemble just before baking. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed.
2. How do I keep the topping crunchy when reheating?
The key is to reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. A 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes usually does the trick. If the topping has softened too much, sprinkle on a few extra chopped pecans before reheating for added crunch.
3. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes will always taste better. If using canned, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid. You may also want to reduce the added sugar slightly, since canned sweet potatoes are sometimes packed in syrup.
4. What makes this recipe different from other sweet potato casseroles?
Most sweet potato casseroles use marshmallows on top, but Ruth’s Chris uses a pecan crumble topping. This makes it richer, more elegant, and less like dessert. The contrast of creamy sweet potatoes with a crisp, buttery topping sets it apart.
5. Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole (without baking) and freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Freezing after baking is also possible, but the topping may lose some of its crunch.
Conclusion
The Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s a showstopper. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy pecan topping, it strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. Whether you’re recreating the steakhouse experience at home or adding something special to your holiday menu, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.
It’s simple enough for beginner cooks yet sophisticated enough to serve at the fanciest dinner. Best of all, it’s flexible—you can make it ahead, customize it with variations, and even freeze it for later.
So, the next time you want to wow your guests, skip the plain old mashed potatoes and bring out this gem instead. Just be prepared—once your friends and family taste it, they’ll be asking for it year after year.
