Sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel is more than just a dish on our holiday table; it’s a cherished tradition in my family. The debate over whether to top it with marshmallows or pecan streusel always sparks lively discussions, but in our household, we proudly stand as a team pecan streusel family!
My daughter and I can’t resist the irresistible combination of sweet potatoes and the crunchy pecan streusel, often finding ourselves devouring the entire pan without any assistance. On the other hand, my husband prefers to savor it as a dessert, savoring each delectable bite.
For each of us, this recipe holds a unique and special meaning. It has become much more than a holiday treat; we prepare it throughout the year because our love for it knows no bounds.
So, if you’re seeking a dish that will instantly become a beloved part of your holiday meals, look no further than this sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel. And remember, you don’t have to wait for the holidays to enjoy it; this delightful recipe can grace your table any time of year!
So, savor the flavors and the cherished moments this sweet potato casserole brings to your family gatherings. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weekday dinner, this dish will surely become a favorite that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds.
Enjoy!
Ingredients
Sweet Potato Filling
2 (29 oz.) cans of sweet potatoes (yams) – drained or 4 cups cooked sweet potatoes – sliced or cubed
¼ cup granulated sugar – ONLY if cooking the sweet potatoes.
½ tsp. salt
½ tsp. vanilla extract
2 eggs
6 Tbsp. butter – melted
Pecan Streusel
1 cup brown sugar
⅓ cup flour
1 cup chopped pecans
6 Tbsp. butter – melted
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350° F.
Coat a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Sweet Potato Filling
Place the sweet potatoes in a mixing bowl and either mash well by hand or use a hand mixer.
Add granulated sugar, salt, vanilla extract, eggs and 6 Tbsp. melted butter and mix well.
Spoon the sweet potato mixture into the prepared dish in an even layer.
Pecan Streusel
In a medium bowl, combine the remaining 6 Tbsp. melted butter, brown sugar, flour, and pecans. Stir well. It will be clumpy.
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the sweet potatoes.
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until sweet potatoes are hot and the topping is lightly browned.
If your topping browns too quickly, you can cover your dish with foil to complete the bake time.
Remove from oven, uncover if covered with foil.
Let sit for 10 minutes, then serve.
Notes
• Sugar: If you used canned sweet potatoes, they likely have sugar. I just drain and do not add any additional sugar to the filling. If I cook the sweet potatoes, I do add a little sugar. You can adjust the sugar to your taste, I prefer the filling to be less sweet to bring out the flavor of the sweet potatoes and then the streusel provides the sweetness.
• Nuts: The traditional recipe calls for chopped pecans in the streusel. If you do not care for pecans, you can use walnuts or leave out the nuts altogether. I will say that the nuts impart a flavor to the streusel that is incredible.
• Baking Sweet Potatoes: Wash sweet potatoes and poke holes in each. Bake at 400° F for 45-60 minutes – they should be very soft. Carefully cut in half and scoop the soft insides out with a spoon.
• Prepare in Advance: Assemble up to one day before you plan to bake it. Cover the baking dish with foil and store in the fridge until you’re ready to eat. Since it will be cold, you will need to add a little more bake time to compensate.
• Texture: For light and fluffy sweet potatoes, beat the sweet potatoes with a mixer. I prefer some texture so I mash by hand so there are small pieces of sweet potato left.
Conclusion:
Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole is a true holiday masterpiece that has earned a special place in my family’s hearts and on our holiday table. The debate over pecan streusel versus marshmallow topping may linger, but we are proud members of the team pecan streusel camp, savoring every crunchy and sweet bite.
This recipe holds a sentimental value for each member of my family. While my daughter and I could happily devour the whole pan at any time of the year, my husband delights in saving it as a decadent dessert. Its versatility and irresistible flavors have made it a year-round favorite, and we find ourselves indulging in it not just during the holidays, but whenever the craving strikes.
Embracing the essence of Ruth’s Chris, this sweet potato casserole has become a timeless tradition that brings joy and warmth to our gatherings. It’s a dish that transcends special occasions, making any meal feel like a celebratory event.
So, whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family dinner, or simply treating yourself to a delectable treat, Ruth’s Chris Sweet Potato Casserole will elevate the dining experience and leave you with unforgettable memories. This recipe is an invitation to savor the delights of the holiday season throughout the year and create cherished moments shared with loved ones.
Indulge in the richness of flavors and the spirit of togetherness that this sweet potato casserole brings to your table. From our family to yours, enjoy this irresistible and heartwarming dish that embodies the true essence of holiday feasting.