Rich, velvety, and crowned with a buttery pecan streusel topping, this Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole is everything you want in a holiday side dish. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or a comforting weekend dinner, this recipe brings restaurant-level flavor into your home kitchen.


The base is silky smooth sweet potatoes whipped with butter, sugar, and vanilla, while the topping adds that irresistible crunch of brown sugar and pecans. It feeds a crowd, looks impressive on the table, and tastes like pure southern comfort with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Casserole
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich and indulgent but easy to make. The balance between the creamy sweet potatoes and the caramelized pecan topping is a texture and flavor match made in heaven. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for prep-ahead occasions.
What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?
Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Garnet or Jewel are perfect. They’re naturally sweet and mash easily, giving that creamy consistency you want. Avoid white sweet potatoes, as they’re starchier and less flavorful for this specific dish.
Ingredients for the Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole

Each component plays a key role in the irresistible final product:
- Sweet potatoes (3 cups mashed): The star of the show, providing rich texture and natural sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Enhances the sweet flavor of the potatoes.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and warmth.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind the mixture and add richness.
- Butter, melted (1/2 cup): Adds creamy flavor and smooth texture.
For the Topping:
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Creates a caramel-like layer when baked.
- All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Helps create the crumble topping.
- Butter, softened (1/3 cup): Binds the streusel ingredients.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
How To Make the Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and boil sweet potatoes until fork tender. Drain and mash until smooth. You should end up with 3 cups of mashed sweet potatoes.
Step 2: Make the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 2 eggs, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Pour and Smooth
Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1/3 cup flour, and 1/3 cup softened butter until crumbly. Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the sweet potato base. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.
How to Serve and Store Your Casserole
This casserole yields 12 servings, making it a great option for potlucks or family dinners. Serve it warm straight from the oven for maximum delight.
To store, let it cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.
What to Serve With Sweet Potato Casserole?
Herb-Roasted Turkey
The savory herbs and juicy meat pair perfectly with the sweet casserole.
Classic Green Bean Casserole
Add a creamy and crunchy vegetable dish to balance the sweetness.
Cranberry Sauce
A tart and vibrant side that cuts through the richness.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Double up on comfort with another creamy favorite.
Stuffing with Sausage
Savory, hearty stuffing complements the sweetness with spices and texture.
Fresh Garden Salad
A light, crisp counterpoint to the heavier textures.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits are great for sopping up any leftover casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I Freeze Sweet Potato Casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze after assembling (without baking). Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Is This Dessert or a Side Dish?
Technically a side dish, but sweet enough to flirt with dessert status. You decide!
Can I Use Canned Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, but be sure they are not in syrup and drain them well. Fresh gives the best flavor and texture.
What If I Don’t Like Pecans?
No problem. Try walnuts, almonds, or leave out the nuts entirely and just use the brown sugar topping.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use walnuts instead? Maybe add a hint of cinnamon? I love seeing your twists on classic dishes. Ask questions or share tips—let’s keep our kitchens creative.
Conclusion
This Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole brings that fine-dining touch to your holiday or weeknight table. It’s easy, make-ahead friendly, and never fails to impress. Whether it’s a Thanksgiving must or a comfort food craving, this dish delivers every time.
Hungry for more comfort food? Check out these delicious recipes from Meals We Share:
- Rainbow Smoothie Bowls
- Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas
- Mini Frittata Muffins
- Tropical Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
For more sweet and savory ideas, visit my Pinterest board here: Meals We Share
Best Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 casserole (serves 12)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich, buttery, and topped with a sweet crunchy pecan streusel, this Ruth’s Chris Copycat Sweet Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish. Perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners, it brings restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. This easy recipe is a classic that balances sweetness and creaminess, making it ideal for your Thanksgiving menu or as an anytime indulgent side. Add it to your collection of easy dinner ideas and crowd-pleasing food ideas for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup softened butter
1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. Peel and boil sweet potatoes until fork tender. Drain and mash until smooth. You should end up with 3 cups of mashed sweet potatoes.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
3. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, flour, and softened butter until crumbly. Stir in chopped pecans.
5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the sweet potato base.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crisp.
Notes
You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and bake it fresh before serving.
For a nut-free version, skip the pecans and just use the brown sugar topping.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato base for extra warmth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/12 of casserole
- Calories: 342
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 165mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
Keywords: sweet potato casserole, holiday sides, easy recipe, Ruth’s Chris copycat


