Ruth’s Chris Creamy Parmesan Potato Casserole
Introduction
If you’ve ever dined at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you know their side dishes are just as memorable as their sizzling steaks. This Creamy Parmesan Potato Casserole captures that indulgent steakhouse experience at home—rich, velvety, and deeply comforting. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something special.
Description
This casserole blends tender shredded hash browns with heavy cream, melted butter, tangy sour cream, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it delivers a creamy interior with a lightly crisp top. Each bite is smooth, savory, and decadently satisfying—perfect alongside steak, roast chicken, or holiday meals.
Ingredients & Quantity
4 cups shredded hash browns (thawed)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium casserole dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, heavy cream, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Potato casseroles are a staple of American comfort cuisine, especially in the Midwest and Southern United States. Dishes like “funeral potatoes” and cheesy hash brown bakes became popular in church gatherings and family celebrations.
Steakhouse-style potato dishes, however, elevate this tradition—transforming humble ingredients into luxurious sides. Restaurants like Ruth’s Chris Steak House helped popularize indulgent, cream-based potato sides served alongside premium cuts of beef, creating the now-iconic pairing of steak and creamy potatoes.
Optional Additions
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella for extra melt
1/2 cup sharp cheddar for deeper flavor
Crumbled cooked bacon
A pinch of smoked paprika
Caramelized onions
A crunchy breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter
Tips for Success
Fully thaw and drain hash browns to avoid excess moisture.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melt and flavor.
Season generously—potatoes require adequate salt.
For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Let the casserole rest before serving to allow it to set properly.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, serves 8)
Calories: 320–380
Fat: 25–30g
Carbohydrates: 18–22g
Protein: 7–9g
Calcium: High (from cream and Parmesan)
Values vary depending on exact brands and additions.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this is undeniably a rich side dish, balance makes all the difference:
Serve smaller portions alongside lean protein and vegetables.
Substitute half-and-half for part of the heavy cream.
Use light sour cream if preferred.
Pair with a fresh green salad to create contrast and balance.
Enjoying indulgent dishes occasionally—and mindfully—can be part of a well-rounded lifestyle.
Conclusion
Ruth’s Chris Creamy Parmesan Potato Casserole brings steakhouse elegance straight to your kitchen. Creamy, cheesy, and deeply comforting, it’s the ultimate side dish for special dinners, holidays, or whenever you want to impress.
Recommendation
Pair this casserole with:
Grilled ribeye or filet mignon
Roasted asparagus or green beans
A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon
Warm dinner rolls
This dish is guaranteed to earn rave reviews at your table.
And yes… it’s absolutely “Yummy.” 🥔🧀✨
