RUTH’S CHRIS SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

#### Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cubing the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the sweet potatoes for about **15–20 minutes** until they are fork-tender.

Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, drain the water and mash them with a potato masher until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use a hand mixer or stand mixer to achieve a fluffier consistency.

#### Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the **brown sugar**, **melted butter**, **milk**, **vanilla extract**, **salt**, and **cinnamon** (if using). Mix everything together until smooth. Add this mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes and stir until everything is fully combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor if desired. Once the filling is ready, transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

#### Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the **chopped pecans**, **brown sugar**, **melted butter**, and **cinnamon** (if using). Mix until the pecans are well-coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the sweet potato filling in the baking dish. The pecans will toast during baking, creating a deliciously crunchy topping.

#### Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about **25–30 minutes**, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through. The pecans will become beautifully toasted and the filling will set into a smooth, creamy texture.

#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best served warm, allowing the sweet and savory flavors to meld together perfectly.

You can serve **Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole** as a side dish alongside any main course, from roasted turkey or glazed ham to grilled steak. It also makes a great addition to a holiday table or a family dinner.

### Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Casserole

– **Roast the Sweet Potatoes**: For a deeper flavor, you can roast the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them. Simply cube them and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30–40 minutes, until they are soft and caramelized.

– **Use Fresh or Canned Sweet Potatoes**: Fresh sweet potatoes work best for this recipe, but canned sweet potatoes can be used in a pinch. If using canned, be sure to drain them thoroughly before mashing.

– **Make it Ahead of Time**: This casserole can be made a day ahead. Simply prepare the casserole, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 30–40 minutes, until it’s heated through and the topping is golden brown.

– **Add a Marshmallow Topping**: For a classic twist, add some mini marshmallows to the top of the casserole for the last 5 minutes of baking. The marshmallows will melt and brown, creating a sweet, gooey contrast to the crunchy pecan topping.

### Why You Should Make Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

**Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole** is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and comfort. The creamy sweet potato filling paired with the rich, buttery pecan topping makes this casserole the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s a dish that stands out on any table, whether you’re serving it for a special holiday or simply enjoying a comforting meal with family and friends.

Its ease of preparation, customizable nature, and ability to please a crowd make it a recipe worth mastering. Once you try this **Sweet Potato Casserole**, you’ll be hooked, and it might just become a new favorite tradition in your kitchen!