This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. Sweet mashed potatoes are enhanced with sugar, vanilla, and butter, then topped with a crunchy pecan and brown sugar streusel for the ultimate sweet and savory side dish. This casserole is a standout that feels like dessert but pairs beautifully with savory holiday dishes.
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Base:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes: Boiled, baked, or canned (well-drained) sweet potatoes can be used.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the dish and balances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, warm flavor.
- 2 eggs, well beaten: Helps bind the mixture and adds richness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Creamy texture enhancer.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and buttery flavor.
Streusel Topping:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the topping and creates a caramel-like flavor.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the topping.
- 1/3 cup butter, melted: Binds the topping ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 well-beaten eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
2. Assemble the Casserole
Butter a medium-sized baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches or similar). Pour the sweet potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
3. Make the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Mix the ingredients together until they form a crumbly texture.
4. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture in the baking dish.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Sweet Potato Casserole warm alongside:
- Roasted turkey or ham
- Savory stuffing or dressing
- Green beans or other vegetable sides
- Cranberry sauce for a classic holiday combination
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes are ideal for their sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- Mash Thoroughly: For a smooth base, ensure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed or pureed before mixing with other ingredients.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
- Pecan-Free Option: If you prefer, omit the pecans and substitute with rolled oats or crushed graham crackers for a nut-free topping.
Variations
- Marshmallow Topping: Swap the streusel for mini marshmallows for a classic sweet potato casserole variation.
- Spiced Sweet Potatoes: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the sweet potato mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Healthier Option: Reduce the sugar in the sweet potato base and use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole without the topping, freeze it, and add the topping fresh before baking. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, canned sweet potatoes (drained) work well. Use about 2 cups for this recipe.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with dairy-free butter and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.
3. What’s the best dish size for this casserole?
A 9×9-inch baking dish works perfectly, but you can also use a shallow 9×13-inch dish for a thinner casserole.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish (such as a 9×13-inch pan). Adjust baking time if necessary.
Conclusion
This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a holiday favorite that brings a rich, indulgent twist to classic sweet potatoes. Its creamy, smooth base and crunchy, caramelized pecan topping make it an irresistible addition to any table. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration, this casserole is sure to be a standout dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Enjoy this decadent, crowd-pleasing recipe that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors!
