Ever wondered how to make Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole at home? This dish is famous for its creamy texture and sweet brown sugar pecan topping. Can you get that restaurant taste in your kitchen? As a professional writer, I’ll share the secrets to this holiday favorite.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the origins of the Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole recipe
- Learn the essential ingredients and techniques for the perfect sweet potato base
- Master the art of creating a decadent brown sugar pecan crust
- Uncover the pro’s tips for assembling and baking the casserole
- Explore make-ahead and storage options for your homemade version
The Story Behind Ruth’s Chris Famous Sweet Potato Side Dish
At Ruth’s Chris Steak House, the sweet potato casserole is a favorite. It’s a side dish that has won over many customers. This dish is a key part of the restaurant’s tradition of serving top-quality sides with their USDA Prime steaks.
Origin of the Restaurant’s Signature Recipe
Sweet potatoes are a staple in the Americas, unlike yams from Africa and Asia. The first marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole recipe was published in 1917. Ruth’s Chris Steak House made their own version, adding a pecan crust that everyone loves.
The recipe for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a mix of brown sugar, flour, pecans, and sweet potatoes. It also includes sugar, salt, egg, and butter. Baked at 350°F for 30 minutes, it turns out creamy and golden.
Why This Side Dish Became a Customer Favorite
The Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is loved for its taste and how well it goes with their steaks and seafood. It’s sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy. This makes it a favorite side dish at Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
Its popularity also comes from Ruth’s Hospitality Group’s focus on quality ingredients and history. Started by Ruth Fertel in 1965, the company now has 66 locations across the U.S. They share their famous sweet potato casserole with customers everywhere.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Sweet Potato Casserole
To make the ultimate sweet potato casserole, you need the right ingredients. Whether you’re making Ruth’s Chris Steak House’s famous recipe or your own, knowing the key ingredients is crucial. This ensures the perfect mix of flavors and textures.
The baked sweet potatoes are at the heart of this dish. You’ll need about 3 pounds of peeled and cubed sweet potatoes, which is 3-4 large ones. After cooking and mashing, they become the creamy base of the casserole.
The recipe also includes white sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs to sweeten the sweet potatoes. Butter and brown sugar add richness and a crunchy topping. Flour and chopped pecans complete the brown sugar pecan crust, making it irresistible.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed | 3 pounds (3-4 large sweet potatoes) |
| White sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Butter, melted | 1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make Ruth’s Chris famous sweet potato casserole. Get ready to wow your guests with this beloved holiday dish.
How to Prepare Sweet Potatoes for the Base
Getting your sweet potatoes ready is key to making Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole. You can bake, boil, or microwave them. Each way gives different results.
Baking Method
Baking sweet potatoes brings out their sweetness and makes them creamy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake them for 60 minutes, or until they’re soft. Then, peel and mash them for the casserole.
Boiling Method
Boiling is quick if you’re in a hurry. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Boil them in salted water for 30 minutes, or until soft. Drain and mash for the casserole.
Microwave Method
For a fast option, microwave the sweet potatoes. Pierce them with a fork and microwave on high for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Let them cool, then peel and mash.
Choose any method to get about 2 1/2 pounds of mashed sweet potatoes. Or, use 3 (15-ounce) cans of sweet potatoes for a shortcut.
Creating the Creamy Sweet Potato Filling
The secret to Ruth’s Chris’ famous sweet potato casserole is in the mix of mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, and special ingredients. Start with tender, roasted sweet potatoes for this rich, velvety base.
First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Prick the sweet potatoes a few times with a fork. Then, bake them for 45-60 minutes until they’re fork-tender. After cooling, peel the skins and mash the sweet potato flesh until it’s smooth and creamy.
In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer to beat the mix for 3-4 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. For even more creaminess, add a splash of milk or half-and-half cream.
Next, add the eggs one at a time while beating the mix. This step makes the filling rich and custard-like, perfect for the creamy sweet potato filling.
“The key to Ruth’s Chris’ signature sweet potato casserole is the velvety smooth, creamy sweet potato base. It’s the foundation that allows the other flavors to shine.”
With the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, vanilla, and eggs mixed together, you’re almost there. You’re on your way to making the famous mashed sweet potatoes that make this dish a favorite.
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole: The Professional Method
To make your sweet potato casserole as good as Ruth’s Chris, you need some key techniques. These include the right mixing and controlling the temperature. These steps will give you the creamy filling and crunchy crust that everyone loves.
Mixing Techniques
The secret to a fluffy sweet potato filling is in how you mix it. After boiling or baking the sweet potatoes, beat the mixture for 3-4 minutes. This adds air, making the potatoes light and fluffy.
Temperature Control Tips
Temperature is key when making Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even baking. Keep an eye on it for 45 minutes, until the edges bubble and the streusel browns.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
The creamy texture of Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole comes from the sweet potato base. Make sure to mash the sweet potatoes well, removing lumps. This ensures a smooth filling that pairs well with the crunchy pecan topping.
By using these professional techniques, you can make your sweet potato casserole as good as Ruth’s Chris. Your guests will love the signature flavors of Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.
Making the Brown Sugar Pecan Crust
The brown sugar pecan crust is a key part of the Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole. It adds texture and flavor. The crunchy topping balances sweet and nutty notes, enhancing the creamy sweet potato filling.
To make the pecan streusel topping, mix 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of flour, and 1 cup of chopped pecans in a bowl. Add 1/4 cup of melted butter slowly. Stir until it’s crumbly.
Chill the topping in the fridge for 30 minutes before using. This keeps it crunchy during baking. When ready, sprinkle it over the sweet potato filling for a tasty contrast.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
| Melted butter | 1/4 cup |
The brown sugar and pecan topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweet potatoes. This pecan streusel topping makes the Ruth’s Chris casserole stand out. It’s a classic that diners love.
Assembly and Baking Instructions
Making Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a fun cooking adventure. Begin by pouring the creamy sweet potato mix into a greased baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly, reaching the edges for a perfect bake.
Layering Technique
Next, add the brown sugar pecan streusel topping. Sprinkle it over the casserole, covering it completely. This adds a crunchy texture and a sweet, caramelized flavor.
Baking Time and Temperature Guidelines
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, until it’s hot and bubbly.
- Then, bake for another 10-20 minutes, until the pecan topping is golden and the edges are crisp.
- Finally, let the casserole rest for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together beautifully.
By following these steps, you can make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole at home. It’s perfect for holiday meals or as a comforting side dish any time.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
Preparing the Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole ahead of time can save you a lot of stress. You can make the creamy sweet potato filling up to two days before. Just store it in the fridge without the crunchy pecan topping.
When it’s time to serve, reheat the potatoes for 10-20 minutes. Then, add the brown sugar pecan crust and bake as instructed.
The casserole can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
These storage tips ensure your Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole stays creamy and flavorful. Whether you make it ahead or save leftovers, it’s a convenient holiday dish.
FAQ
What is the origin of Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole?
Ruth’s Chris introduced this sweet potato casserole as a signature side. It quickly became a hit. People loved its sweet and savory mix, creamy texture, and crunchy pecans.
What are the key ingredients in Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole?
The main ingredients are sweet potatoes, white sugar, vanilla, eggs, butter, brown sugar, flour, and pecans. You’ll need 3 cups of mashed sweet potatoes, about 3-4 large ones.
What are the best methods to prepare sweet potatoes for the casserole?
You can bake, boil, or microwave sweet potatoes. Baking takes 60 minutes at 350°F. Boiling is about 30 minutes, and microwaving is 15-20 minutes. Peel and mash them after cooking.
How do you create the creamy sweet potato filling?
Mix mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, salt, vanilla, eggs, and melted butter. Beat it well for 3-4 minutes. Adding milk or half-and-half can make it creamier.
What are the professional techniques for making the perfect Ruth’s Chris sweet potato casserole?
Beat the sweet potato mix for 3-4 minutes to fluff it up. Use a 375°F oven. Make sure the sweet potatoes are mashed well and mixed smoothly with other ingredients.
How do you make the brown sugar pecan crust?
Mix brown sugar, flour, and pecans in a bowl. Add melted butter until it’s crumbly. Chill the topping in the fridge before baking to keep it crumbly.
How do you assemble and bake the casserole?
Put the sweet potato mix in a greased dish and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Sprinkle the pecan topping and bake for 10-20 minutes more. Let it set for 30 minutes before serving.
Can you make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead. Make the filling and refrigerate it for up to two days. Reheat the potatoes before adding the topping and baking. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
