Sweet Potato Casserole – A Decadent Yet Balanced Holiday Favorite

This Sweet Potato Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, tender sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping. Inspired by classic restaurant-style casseroles, it’s a comforting dish that works beautifully for holiday dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave a sweet, cozy side. Sweet, nutty, and lightly spiced, this casserole strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Sweet Potatoes: Smooth, naturally sweet, and perfectly spiced.
Crunchy Pecan Topping: Adds texture and rich flavor.
Holiday-Ready: A showstopper for family dinners or gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: Pantry-friendly yet restaurant-quality taste.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes:

• 3 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes (about 3–4 medium sweet potatoes)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Topping:

• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

2. Prepare Sweet Potato Base
In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.

3. Make the Pecan Topping
In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and flour until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato mixture.

4. Bake
Bake for 25–35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

5. Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra pecans or a light drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 220
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 9g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 4g

Tips for Success

• Cook Sweet Potatoes Ahead: Boil or bake them in advance for faster assembly.
• Make It Extra Creamy: Use a potato masher or hand mixer for silky smooth texture.
• Add Spices: A pinch of ginger or allspice enhances the warm flavor profile.
• Topping Variations: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a small sprinkle of shredded coconut for extra sweetness.

Why This Recipe Works

The creamy sweet potatoes provide a naturally sweet, smooth base while the crunchy pecan topping adds contrast and indulgence. The spices and light brown sugar enhance flavor without being overly heavy, making this dish a balanced, comforting side that elevates any meal.

Ruth’s Chris–inspired Sweet Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines classic comfort with a touch of elegance. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced—ideal for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you want a sweet and nutty side dish that feels indulgent without being overwhelming.