Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole with Buttery Pecan Crust

Name: Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (from 3–4 large sweet potatoes or 3 x 15 oz cans, drained); 1 cup white sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs, room temperature; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark); ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted; ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping); Optional: 2–3 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream; Optional spices: ½ tsp ground cinnamon, pinch of nutmeg or clove; Optional: Mini marshmallows for topping

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There’s a reason this ruth chris sweet potato casserole is a legendary side dish at Ruth’s Chris — it’s silky, sweet, and topped with a golden pecan crunch that tastes like dessert. If you’ve ever felt underwhelmed by sugary marshmallow-topped casseroles, this version restores the magic. Rich Southern roots, cozy holiday vibes, and a crowd-pleasing finish — all made simple for home cooks with optional shortcuts and expert tweaks.

Table of Contents

Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Ingredient Breakdown (With Origins or Substitutes)

Sweet Potatoes vs Yams: What’s the Difference?

Despite common labeling, most “yams” sold in the U.S. are actually sweet potatoes. True yams are native to Africa and much starchier, while sweet potatoes—especially the Jewel and Garnet varieties—are naturally creamy, sweet, and ideal for casseroles. According to the USDA, the terms are often used interchangeably on canned goods, but the flesh you’re likely using is a soft orange sweet potato.

Using Canned Sweet Potatoes or Yams

For a quicker prep, canned sweet potatoes (sometimes labeled as yams) are a great swap. Just be sure to:

Drain them thoroughly
Pat dry to remove excess syrup or moisture
Use about 3 cans (15 oz each) to get 3 packed cups of mashed sweet potato

This method keeps prep under 15 minutes and works beautifully in this Ruth Chris sweet potato casserole copycat recipe.

Butter: Salted or Unsalted?

Always use unsalted butter when baking casseroles like this — it gives you full control over the final flavor. The sweetness from the brown sugar and potatoes is more balanced when you’re not fighting extra sodium.

Brown Sugar: Light vs Dark

Both work, but dark brown sugar adds more depth due to its higher molasses content — enhancing those caramelized, almost toffee-like notes in the pecan crust. For a slightly milder flavor, use light brown sugar.

Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: Which Adds More Tang?

Cream cheese offers richness and a velvety mouthfeel — almost souffle-like.
Sour cream delivers a tangier, lighter flavor with a bit more lift in texture.

Both are optional, but if you’re after a restaurant-style fluffiness, adding 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese to the mash can level up the base.

Optional Spice Additions: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Clove

While the traditional Ruth’s Chris version keeps it simple, many home chefs enjoy warming it up with:

½ tsp ground cinnamon
A pinch of nutmeg or clove for extra depth
1 tbsp bourbon or maple syrup for a grown-up twist

These ingredients pair beautifully with sweet potatoes and boost the aromatic profile of the dish.

Pecans: Raw vs Toasted + Tips

For best results, lightly toast the pecans before adding to the topping mix:

Oven method: 350°F for 5–7 minutes
Skillet method: Medium heat, 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently

Toasting enhances both the aroma and the crunch, giving your casserole that elevated steakhouse finish.

Marshmallows (Optional Layer)

While not part of the original Ruth’s Chris version, mini marshmallows can be added for a nostalgic twist — especially if kids are involved. Simply sprinkle a handful on top during the last 5–7 minutes of baking for a gooey, golden topping.

Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole StepRuth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole-by-Step Preparation Instructions

How to Cook Sweet Potatoes: 3 Easy Methods

You’ll need 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes — here’s how to prep:

Boil (Traditional): Peel and cube 3–4 large sweet potatoes. Boil for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
Bake (More flavor): Roast whole sweet potatoes at 400°F for 45–60 minutes, then scoop out flesh.
Microwave (Quickest): Pierce whole sweet potatoes and microwave for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.

✅ Tip: Roasting brings out deeper caramel notes; boiling is faster but can reduce sweetness.

Tips for a Silky Filling (No Graininess!)

Use room-temperature butter and eggs to avoid curdling
For ultra-smooth texture, use an electric hand mixer or food processor
Don’t overmix — too much blending can make the filling gummy instead of fluffy

Make-Ahead Instructions (2 Ways)

Assemble unbaked: Prepare the mashed filling and pecan topping separately. Refrigerate up to 2 days. On the day of serving, bring to room temp, then bake.
Fully baked option: Make and bake the entire dish. Let cool, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Reheat covered at 325°F until warmed through.

This flexibility makes it perfect for holiday prep.

Chilling the Pecan Crust Mixture

After mixing the brown sugar, flour, chopped pecans, and melted butter, chill it for at least 15 minutes. This step ensures the topping doesn’t sink into the filling and keeps that signature crunchy layer intact.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out

Cover casserole with foil and bake at 325°F for 15–20 minutes
Add a pat of butter or splash of milk before reheating to refresh moisture if needed
Uncover during last few minutes to crisp the topping again

Best Time to Serve & Pairing Ideas

Holiday Stars: Thanksgiving, Christmas & Easter

This dish is practically made for the holiday table. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas dinner, or a springtime Easter brunch, Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole brings a luxurious, celebratory feel to the meal. It’s also an easy make-ahead option when kitchen space is tight.

Creative Leftover Uses (Next-Day Breakfast or Bowl)

Leftovers are a gift with this casserole. Try:

Topping a warm slice with a fried or poached egg
Serving over quinoa or farro as part of a hearty veggie bowl
Reheating with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet brunch side

It holds beautifully and even shines at room temperature.

Suggested Pairings by Protein Type

Poultry:

Herb-roasted turkey
Lemon-thyme roasted chicken

Beef:

Garlic butter steak
Prime rib roast

Vegetarian:

Roasted Brussels sprouts
Mushroom Wellington
Baked acorn squash with wild rice stuffing

Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe — Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Rich with Buttery Pecan Crunch 5

Why You’ll Love It

A Sweet-Savory Classic with Southern Roots

Sweet potato casserole has deep roots in Southern American cuisine, evolving from humble harvest-time dishes to the beloved holiday staple it is today. Ruth’s Chris took that legacy and refined it — trading marshmallows for a caramelized pecan topping that bridges side and dessert beautifully.

Tastes Like Dessert, Served as a Side

With its silky-smooth texture and nutty, sweet crust, this casserole walks the line between side dish and indulgent treat. It’s not uncommon to see guests go back for seconds — or sneak a square after dinner alongside pie.

What Readers Say

“Sooo good! And I don’t usually like sweet potatoes… Made this for our family Thanksgiving and everyone raved!” – ★★★★★

“This is the one dish I must make every year. The crust is everything.” – ★★★★★

Social proof like this makes it easy to trust this dish as a reliable winner.

Low Effort, High Praise

Only 15–20 minutes of hands-on prep
Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
Serves 10–12 with ease

This is a recipe that rewards you far more than the work you put in.

Tips, Tweaks & Common Mistakes

Common Pitfalls (And How to Fix Them)

Watery texture? Drain canned yams well and pat dry before mashing.
Overly sweet? Reduce sugar by ¼ cup or use dark brown sugar for complexity.
Soggy topping? Chill the pecan crumble mix for at least 15 minutes before baking.

Texture Preferences: Fluffy vs. Dense

For a fluffier, souffle-like filling, blend with a mixer and add 1–2 tbsp cream cheese.
For a denser, rustic texture, mash by hand and leave some small chunks.

Small Dish vs. 9×13: Which Pan to Use?

A 2-quart dish yields a thick, indulgent layer (as served at Ruth’s Chris).
A 9×13 pan spreads it thinner — ideal for doubling or feeding a large crowd.

Adjust baking time slightly for deeper casseroles (add 5–10 minutes).

Allergy & Diet Variations

Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and coconut or almond milk.
Gluten-free: Omit the flour in the topping or sub with oat flour or almond meal.

These swaps still deliver flavor and texture without compromise.

Add-Ons to Make It Your Own

A splash of bourbon in the filling
A drizzle of maple syrup before baking
Mini marshmallows for a nostalgic twist
A dusting of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for warmth

FAQs

How Far in Advance Can I Make This?

You can prep this dish up to 2 days in advance:

Option 1: Prepare the filling and topping separately and refrigerate. Assemble and bake day-of.

Option 2: Fully bake, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat covered at 325°F until hot.

Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Casserole?

Yes — this casserole freezes well:

Freeze after baking and cooling completely

Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months

To reheat: Thaw overnight and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes

Can I Double This Recipe for a Crowd?

Absolutely. Use a 9×13 pan or two 2-quart dishes. Increase baking time slightly — aim for 35–40 minutes total until center is set and topping is crisp.

Does It Taste Better Fresh or Reheated?

Surprisingly, many say it’s even better the next day. The flavors meld and the crust crisps beautifully with a quick reheat — just cover with foil and warm gently.

What’s the Best Sweet Potato to Use?

We recommend:

Jewel sweet potatoes: Smooth, naturally sweet, orange-fleshed

Garnet yams: Slightly deeper color and earthier flavor

Avoid white-fleshed varieties — they’re starchier and less sweet.

Conclusion

This Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole blends creamy comfort with elegant flair — a sure hit whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself. Try this beloved copycat recipe and taste why it’s a steakhouse legend!

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