Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe Idea
Ruth chris sweet potato casserole recipe, a beloved side dish transforms humble sweet potatoes into an indulgent, creamy, and comforting treat perfect for holidays.
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric Mixer or Whisk
- Pastry blender or fork (for streusel topping)
- Potato masher or ricer
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- For the Pecan Streusel Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, melted butter, milk, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Step 3: Assemble the Casserole: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Step 4: Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sweet potato mixture is heated through.
- Step 5: Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm. Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. To toast the pecans before adding them to the streusel, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350F (175C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
Notes
Variations
- Ingredient Swaps:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. Ensure the plant-based butter melts and behaves similarly to dairy butter for best results in the streusel.
- For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour in the streusel with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- To reduce the sugar content, decrease the amount of granulated and brown sugar by 25-50% or substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol, adjusting to taste.
- Regional Twists:
- Add a hint of citrus zest (orange or lemon) to the sweet potato mixture for a brighter, more complex flavor profile, typical in Mediterranean-inspired variations.
- Incorporate a touch of maple syrup or molasses into the sweet potato base for a deeper, richer sweetness, reminiscent of New England-style cooking.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sweet potato mixture for a subtle spicy kick, reflecting Southwestern influences.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- For a vegan version, replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
- To lower the fat content, reduce the amount of butter in both the sweet potato mixture and the streusel topping, or use a light butter alternative.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the pecans in the streusel with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Serving Suggestions
The ruth chris sweet potato casserole is traditionally served as a side dish during Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. It complements roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib. It can also be served as a dessert. Consider pairing it with savory elements to balance its sweetness. Reheating before serving is recommended to enhance its flavors and textures. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for added visual appeal.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, the sweet potato casserole should be stored properly. Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through. Covering the casserole with foil during reheating can prevent the topping from burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the sweet potato casserole be made ahead of time? The sweet potato casserole can be fully assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the streusel topping just before baking to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Question 2: How do you prevent the streusel topping from burning? Covering the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking can prevent the streusel topping from burning. Remove the foil during the final few minutes to allow the topping to crisp up.
- Question 3: Can frozen sweet potatoes be used for this recipe? Yes, frozen sweet potatoes can be used. Ensure they are completely thawed and drained of any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
- Question 4: How can the casserole be reheated? The sweet potato casserole can be reheated in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave.