Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe for a Delicious Holiday Treat

Growing up in that white farmhouse nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, sweet potatoes were more than just a side dish—they were a chapter in our family story. I still remember Mama Lu’s skillet always warm, the air thick with the sweet, comforting aroma of those slow-cooked yams. This Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole brings me right back to those porch swing afternoons, where food wasn’t just nourishment but a way to gather, to heal, and to tell tales. It’s a dish that feels like home—simple, soulful, and full of heart. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast or just because you need a little comfort, this casserole carries that same warmth and love Mama Lu taught me to cook with.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

There’s something about Ruth Chris’s take on sweet potato casserole that’s both elegant and approachable—just like the way Mama Lu would transform humble ingredients into something unforgettable. This version is easy to put together, requiring no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, but it delivers the kind of rich, velvety texture and sweet-but-not-too-sweet flavor that makes you want to come back for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that bridges generations: your kids will love it, your parents will ask for the recipe, and you’ll find yourself making it year after year.

What I love most is how this casserole carries that same spirit of togetherness I grew up with. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or Sunday suppers, just like Mama Lu’s pot roasts and cornbread. Plus, it’s flexible enough to add your own twist—whether that’s a sprinkle of pecans or a dash of cinnamon, it’s a recipe that invites you to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (for a lighter option, use almond milk)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows (optional, but a nostalgic touch)
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)

If you’re short on fresh sweet potatoes, canned sweet potato puree can work in a pinch—but nothing beats the texture and flavor of the real thing, as Mama Lu would say, “fresh is best, child.” For the cream, I often use whatever we have on hand—sometimes it’s cream, sometimes milk, sometimes a splash of buttermilk if I’m feeling adventurous.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 280 per serving (1 cup)
• Protein: 3 grams
• Fat: 12 grams (mostly from butter and nuts)
• Carbohydrates: 38 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Sugar: 20 grams (from brown sugar and marshmallows)
• Sodium: 180 milligrams

These numbers can vary a bit depending on your choice of milk and whether you add marshmallows or nuts, but overall, this casserole is a comforting treat that brings a good balance of carbs and fats, with a little protein to round it out. Learn more: Ultimate Comfort Food Corn Pudding Casserole Recipe You Need to Try

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Steps to Create Your Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warm oven is just right to meld those flavors gently, much like Mama Lu’s slow Sunday roasts.
2. Place sweet potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or fork to mash until smooth but still a little rustic—Mama Lu never liked things too perfect.
4. Add softened butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the mashed potatoes. Stir everything together until silky and well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spices as you like—this is where your soul comes in.
5. Transfer the mixture to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This casserole is like a warm hug in a dish, so spread that love evenly.
6. Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top, followed by the chopped nuts if you’re using them. The nuts add a lovely crunch that reminds me of snacking on Mama Lu’s pecans on the porch.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the casserole is heated through. Keep an eye on those marshmallows—they go from toasted to burnt fast if you’re not careful.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to settle, much like the quiet moments after a long day in the kitchen.

Tips for Making the Best Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole

One of Mama Lu’s favorite sayings was,

“Cook with your heart, not just your hands.”

That wisdom has stuck with me in every kitchen I’ve been in, and it’s especially true for this casserole.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: They provide the best texture and sweetness. If you want a little extra depth, roast them instead of boiling for a smoky flavor.
• Don’t overmix: Keep some texture in your mash. Overworking sweet potatoes can make them gluey, and we want fluffy, tender bites.
• Butter matters: Use real butter if you can. It’s the kind of richness that makes this dish feel like a warm memory, not a shortcut.
• Marshmallows are optional: I know they’re classic, but if you prefer a less sweet, more savory version, swap marshmallows for extra nuts or a crumbly pecan topping.
• Spices can be adjusted: Cinnamon and nutmeg give that cozy flavor, but feel free to add a pinch of ginger or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole shines brightest when it’s part of a shared meal, much like those Sunday dinners Mama Lu held dear. Here are some ways I like to serve it:

• Alongside a juicy roast chicken or turkey, for a classic Southern-inspired feast.
• With collard greens or sautéed green beans, adding a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet richness.
• Paired with cornbread and a drizzle of honey butter, echoing those farmhouse table traditions.
• As a comforting side to glazed ham or pork chops, bringing out the natural sweetness in both.

When I first moved west, I’d make this casserole for friends who’d never experienced a true Southern sweet potato dish. Watching their eyes light up with that first bite reminded me that food is a bridge—between past and present, between strangers and friends.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like many of Mama Lu’s dishes, this casserole tastes even better the next day—flavors meld and deepen overnight. Here’s how to keep that magic alive:

• To store: Cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To freeze: Place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container, cover well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep moisture in.
• Tip: If the marshmallows lose their toastiness after reheating, pop the casserole under the broiler for a minute or two—watching closely so they don’t burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole?

The main ingredients for Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole?

The total time to make Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole?

Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe to me—it’s a way to hold onto the love and lessons Mama Lu passed down in that farmhouse kitchen. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, gather ‘round the table, and share stories just like we did on those summer evenings in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re making it for a holiday, a family dinner, or simply to comfort your soul, I hope it brings you the same warmth and togetherness that have always been at the heart of my cooking.

Remember, recipes aren’t just lists of ingredients and steps—they’re memories, passed on with a pinch of salt and a whole lot of soul. So take this Easy Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole, make it yours, and share it with the people you love. That’s what food’s really about.