Ruth’s Chris Inspired Sweet Potato Casserole Delight

Introduction

This sweet potato casserole is all about warmth, buttery sweetness, and a crunchy pecan crown that makes every forkful feel festive. It’s ideal for holidays but easy enough to bring comfort to a weeknight table. If you enjoy creative sweet potato dishes, try pairing this casserole with a savory twist like BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes for a full feel-good meal. The recipe is straightforward, uses simple pantry staples, and rewards you with glossy, golden results.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This version channels the indulgent spirit of a restaurant favorite while remaining approachable for home cooks. The base is velvety mashed sweet potatoes that are sweetened just enough to let natural flavors shine, while the brown sugar and pecan topping adds a toasty crunch. It comes together quickly, so you can focus on presentation instead of fussing over technique. The blend of butter, vanilla, and eggs creates a rich custardy texture that bakes into a tender, sliceable casserole. If you love mixing sweet and savory, you’ll find this pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or green vegetables, similar to flavors in our chicken and sweet potato bowls. It’s a reliable crowd pleaser for potlucks and family dinners alike.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a silky, slightly sweet interior that contrasts perfectly with a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping. The brown sugar in the crumble melts and pockets into the nuts, creating almost little shards of caramel that are irresistible against the creaminess below. Butter and vanilla round out the flavor, lending warmth without overpowering the sweet potato’s natural earthiness. This juxtaposition of smooth and crisp is what keeps people going back for seconds. Serve warm so the topping remains crisp and the filling retains its luxurious creaminess.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes (fresh preferred)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/3 cup melted butter

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 2-quart baking dish or a 9-inch square pan by greasing it with non-stick spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.
3. Transfer the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
5. Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the topping has turned golden brown.
7. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Use freshly cooked and well-drained sweet potatoes for the lightest, fluffiest texture. If your sweet potatoes were steaming while mashed, let them cool slightly so the eggs don’t scramble when mixed in. For extra depth, toast the pecans briefly in a dry skillet before combining with the crumble. If you like a touch of spice, stirring in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the base adds cozy warmth without changing the classic taste. Finally, don’t skip the 10-minute rest after baking — it helps the filling set so slices hold their shape beautifully.

Storage and Make Ahead

This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days when covered tightly. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven until heated through, covering loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. For a make-ahead approach, assemble the casserole and topping separately, refrigerate overnight, then bake from cold, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time. Leftovers also mash into a lovely breakfast hash when paired with roasted vegetables.

Final Thought

This Ruth’s Chris inspired casserole captures the best of sweet potatoes in a dish that looks and tastes special without being complicated. It’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or giving your weeknight spread an elegant upgrade. With a crunchy pecan top and a creamy center, it will likely become a new family favorite.

Conclusion

For a classic reference and inspiration, check out Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe – Food.com.

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