Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole – 5 Simple Steps

If you’ve ever dined at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you’ve likely enjoyed their famous Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping. This indulgent dish is a crowd-pleaser, often ordered as a dessert due to its sweetness and rich flavor. But what if you could recreate this restaurant-quality side dish at home? With this copycat recipe, you can bring the delightful sweetness and the crispy, buttery pecan topping straight to your own dinner table. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a casual family meal, this Sweet Potato Casserole is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

This Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is perfect for anyone who loves a decadent, sweet, and savory side dish. The combination of creamy, mashed sweet potatoes and a crunchy, nutty pecan topping creates the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s easy to prepare, and with a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious version of this beloved restaurant dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping:

• Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes create the best texture and flavor for this casserole. Avoid canned yams for the best results.
• Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds sweetness and depth to the casserole base.
• Half and Half: A blend of milk and cream that gives the sweet potatoes a smooth, creamy texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sweet potato mixture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the casserole from becoming too runny.
• Vanilla: A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and depth of the dish.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and helps bring out their natural flavor.
• Chopped Pecans: The star of the topping, adding a delicious crunch and nuttiness.
• Flour: Used in the pecan crumble to help bind the topping.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Warm spices that enhance the flavor of the pecan topping.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for alternatives or have dietary preferences, here are a few swaps:

• Swerve Brown Sugar: For a low-sugar version, swap out the brown sugar for a sugar substitute like Swerve.
• Almond Flour: You can use almond flour instead of regular flour in the topping for a gluten-free variation.
• Coconut Oil: Replace the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is simple and requires just a few steps:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Boil until fork-tender, about 14-18 minutes. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
2. Mash the Potatoes: Add brown sugar, half and half, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and salt to the sweet potatoes. Use a manual potato masher to mash until mostly smooth, leaving small lumps for texture.
3. Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, chopped pecans, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well mixed. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until the topping becomes crumbly.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to toast the pecans.
6. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. The result will be a beautiful, golden-brown top and creamy sweet potatoes underneath.

Tips & Tricks

• Achieving Creamy Potatoes: For the best texture, use a manual potato masher instead of a hand mixer. This helps prevent the sweet potatoes from becoming too mushy or gluey.
• Pecan Topping: If you prefer a crunchier topping, leave the casserole uncovered for the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the pecans to toast.
• Make Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and the pecan topping separately a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge and bake the casserole when ready.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is versatile and can complement a variety of main dishes. Here are some pairing ideas:

• Grilled Steak: Pair the casserole with grilled steak or kabobs for a hearty meal.
• Holiday Meals: Serve it alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib for a festive touch.
• Make it a Dessert: Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist that turns this casserole into a dessert.

Storing and Freezing

• Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: You can also freeze this casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Health Benefits and Cultural Significance

Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making this casserole a nutritious addition to your meals. While it’s a rich and indulgent dish, it offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any holiday spread. The pecan topping adds heart-healthy fats and a satisfying crunch, making it both delicious and nutritious.

This Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is a fantastic way to bring a taste of Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse to your own kitchen. Whether you serve it as a side dish or dessert, it’s guaranteed to be the highlight of any meal!

Conclusion

This Copycat Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping is the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and crunchy texture, making it an unforgettable side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a comforting dish, this casserole will certainly be a hit with your family and friends. The combination of mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, vanilla, and a buttery pecan topping creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both decadent and satisfying. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can now recreate this restaurant favorite at home and enjoy it any time you wish!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Pumpkin Praline Bread Pudding: This comforting bread pudding is a perfect fall dessert, much like the sweet potato casserole. Its warm pumpkin flavor combined with a decadent praline topping is sure to please those who love rich, spiced dishes like Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole.
• Peach Baked Oatmeal: For a sweet, baked breakfast or dessert, this peach oatmeal dish features tender oats and a lovely fruity sweetness, much like the combination of sweet potatoes and pecans in the casserole. The comforting texture and subtle spices make it a great choice for those who enjoy cozy, flavorful recipes.
• Cheesy Sausage Wonton Cups: If you enjoy rich, flavorful dishes, these cheesy sausage wonton cups provide a savory bite that’s just as indulgent as sweet potato casserole with pecan topping. The crispy wontons, cheesy filling, and savory sausage create a delightful contrast that’s sure to satisfy.

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