If there’s one dish that captures the essence of comfort food, it’s the Sweet Potato Casserole from Ruth's Chris Steak House. This dish is more than just a side; it’s a heavenly combination of creamy, sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, nutty crust that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this casserole perfectly balances sweetness and nuttiness, making it an irresistible addition to any meal—especially during the holiday season.
Why This Recipe is Loved
This Sweet Potato Casserole recipe is adored for its simplicity and deliciousness. It seamlessly combines wholesome ingredients into a dish that feels both indulgent and nostalgic. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday feasts, it brings warmth and cheer to any occasion. Plus, it's easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Ingredients List
For the Crust:
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness and depth to the crust.
- ⅓ cup flour: Provides structure to the crust, helping it hold together beautifully.
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans preferred): Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sweet potatoes.
- ½ cup butter, melted: Acts as a binder and adds a rich, buttery taste to the crust.
For the Sweet Potato Mixture:
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a creamy texture. Canned sweet potatoes work wonderfully for convenience.
- 1 cup sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
- 2 eggs, well beaten: Binds the mixture together and adds richness.
- ¼ cup butter, softened (or ½ cup): Provides a luxurious mouthfeel and enhances the flavor of the sweet potato mixture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup brown sugar, ⅓ cup flour, 1 cup chopped nuts, and ½ cup melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed. Set this crust mixture aside; it will provide a delightful crunch on top.
Mix the Sweet Potato Filling: In another bowl, combine the 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes, 1 cup sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 beaten eggs, and ¼ cup softened butter. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combine in Baking Dish: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a buttered baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Top with Crust: Sprinkle the crust mixture evenly over the top of the sweet potato mixture. Make sure to cover it generously for that perfect crunch.
Bake: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the casserole to set for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole
- Use Fresh Sweet Potatoes: If you prefer, use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned for a more robust flavor. Just peel, boil, and mash them until smooth.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, feel free to reduce the sugar in the sweet potato mixture for a less sweet version.
- Add Spice: For a warm, cozy flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.
- Customize the Nuts: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work well too!
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Potato Casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as turkey or ham. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. For an added touch, garnish with mini marshmallows on top of the sweet potato mixture before baking for a fun twist that kids love.
Conclusion
In summary, Ruth's Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a must-try dish that balances simplicity with deliciousness. With its creamy sweet potato base and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. So, why wait? Bring this comforting, flavorful casserole to your table and enjoy the accolades from your friends and family!
This sweet potato casserole recipe not only satisfies the palate but also creates cherished memories around the dining table. Embrace the simplicity and flavor, and make it a regular feature in your culinary repertoire!