Introduction
Ruth's Chris Steak House is renowned for its indulgent sweet potato casserole, a dish that has captivated diners with its rich flavors and comforting texture. This delightful recipe elevates sweet potatoes into a creamy, sweet side dish that's perfect for holiday gatherings or any family meal.
Creating a copycat version at home allows you to enjoy this favorite without dining out. By using quality ingredients and following a straightforward method, you can bring this wonderful taste to your kitchen. Let's dive into the components and preparation of this delectable casserole that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, providing a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture when cooked. They are rich in vitamins A and C, making them a nutritious choice. - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Granulated sugar balances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, enhancing their flavor while providing the sweetness this casserole is known for. - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
Brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like flavor that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying taste experience. - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Butter contributes to the creaminess of the casserole and infuses it with rich flavor. Using unsalted butter ensures that you have control over the saltiness of the final dish. - 1/2 cup milk
Milk helps to achieve the perfect creamy consistency, ensuring that the sweet potatoes blend smoothly and create a luxurious texture. - 2 large eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the casserole together while also adding richness and depth to the overall flavor. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, providing an aromatic quality that elevates the dish. - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the dish, making it even more comforting and inviting. It’s a classic spice that complements sweet potatoes exceptionally well. - 1/4 teaspoon salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish, balancing the sweetness and ensuring the casserole is fully flavored. - 1 cup mini marshmallows
Mini marshmallows are a signature topping that adds a sweet, toasted finish when baked, creating a pleasing contrast to the creamy sweet potato base.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the sweet potatoes by washing and peeling them.
Start by selecting firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Peeling them is essential for a smooth casserole, as the skin can add unwanted texture. After peeling, cut them into uniform chunks for even cooking.
Step 2: Boil the sweet potatoes until tender, about 20–25 minutes.
Boiling the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender helps them mash easily, which is crucial for achieving the desired creamy consistency. Keep an eye on them and check for tenderness to avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Drain and mash the sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
Mashing the sweet potatoes while they are still warm allows for a smoother blend. Use a potato masher or even a hand mixer for a velvety texture. Avoid lumps for a perfectly creamy casserole.
Step 4: Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes.
Incorporating these ingredients at this stage is crucial for ensuring an even distribution of flavor. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined, fluffy, and no streaks remain.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating the oven ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and helps in achieving that lovely golden crust on top. Timing is key for a well-cooked dish, so set this early in your preparation.
Step 6: Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased baking dish.
Choosing the right baking dish, preferably one that’s large enough to hold the mixture, will allow for even cooking. Greasing the dish prevents sticking and allows for easy serving.
Step 7: Top the mixture with mini marshmallows.
The marshmallows will create a delightful, gooey topping as they bake, adding sweetness and a contrast to the creamy base. Spread them out evenly for uniform cooking.
Step 8: Bake for 25–30 minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Keeping an eye on the casserole during baking is crucial; once the marshmallows begin to brown, you’ll know it’s ready. This step not only adds flavor but also a beautiful presentation.
Why Sweet Potatoes Shine in this Dish
Sweet potatoes bring a unique flavor and nutritional profile that sets this casserole apart from traditional potato dishes. Their natural sweetness lends itself perfectly to both savory and sweet applications, making them a versatile ingredient. This dish showcases the sweet potato's creamy volume and rich taste, ensuring that every bite feels indulgent while also being healthy.
The Perfect Balance of Flavor and Texture
Achieving the ideal mix of flavors is key to a successful sweet potato casserole. The interplay between the natural sweetness from the potatoes and the rich flavors of butter and sugars creates a harmonious dish. Topped with toasted marshmallows, the creamy center contrasts with the crunchy, caramelized exterior, ensuring a delightful experience from your first to your last bite.
Serving Suggestions for Your Casserole
This sweet potato casserole is a versatile side that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. It complements roasts, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. Consider serving it alongside traditional holiday dishes or as a comforting addition to weekly dinners. Its sweet profile also makes it a hit with both adults and children alike, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
What can I do if my sweet potato mixture is too thick?
If your sweet potato mixture is too thick, gradually add more milk until you reach the desired consistency. This will help ensure a creamy texture that’s easy to spread in the baking dish.
Can I substitute marshmallows with another topping?
Yes! If you prefer, you can top the casserole with a streusel made of brown sugar, oats, and pecans for a crunchy alternative that adds a different texture and flavor.
How can I enhance the flavor if it's tasting bland?
If the casserole lacks flavor, try adding a bit more cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for warmth. You can also incorporate a pinch of salt or additional sugar to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall taste.
What if my casserole is overcooked?
If overcooked, your casserole may dry out. To salvage it, consider adding a little more milk before serving to hydrate the mixture back to a creamier consistency.
Can I scale the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely! This recipe can be easily doubled. Just ensure that you use a larger baking dish and monitor the cooking time, as larger servings may need additional time to heat through.
What if I want to adjust the sweetness level?
You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking by reducing the amount of sugar or replacing some with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that this may alter the flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Ruth's Chris Sweet Potato Casserole copycat recipe allows you to recreate a beloved dish at home, perfect for any occasion. By using simple ingredients and following the right steps, you can achieve the delectable flavors reminiscent of the original.
Whether served at a holiday feast or a cozy family gathering, this casserole promises to be a standout dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of sweet potatoes in every bite.
Recipe Card
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.