Delmonico Potatoes

Delmonico Potatoes is a classic American side dish that has stood the test of time. Known for its rich, creamy texture and golden, cheesy crust, this recipe is said to have originated in the mid-19th century at Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City. The dish was created as an indulgent and luxurious accompaniment to the restaurant’s famous steaks, and it has since become a staple in both home kitchens and upscale dining establishments.

At its core, Delmonico Potatoes is a gratin-style casserole that combines tender, diced or shredded potatoes with a velvety cream sauce, butter, and cheese. The dish is baked until bubbling and golden brown on top, making it irresistible with its creamy interior and crispy crust. While traditional recipes call for simple ingredients like cream and cheddar cheese, variations often incorporate ingredients like breadcrumbs, Parmesan, or even bacon for added flavor and texture.

Whether you’re looking to elevate a holiday dinner, serve a crowd-pleasing side dish at a potluck, or simply indulge in comfort food at its finest, Delmonico Potatoes is the perfect recipe. Its combination of rich, creamy flavors and crisp, golden topping makes it an unforgettable addition to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Indulgent: Delmonico Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food with its creamy, cheesy texture and buttery, golden crust.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or cooking a casual family meal, this dish fits any occasion.
• Versatile: This recipe can be customized with different cheeses, herbs, or additional ingredients like bacon or caramelized onions.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The rich, decadent flavors of this dish make it a guaranteed hit at potlucks, gatherings, and family dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples like potatoes, cream, butter, and cheese, this recipe is both affordable and easy to prepare.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance and bake it just before serving, making it ideal for entertaining.
• Golden, Cheesy Perfection: The crispy, golden topping is irresistible, adding both flavor and texture to the dish.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately 1 cup)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 6 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes or shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish)

For the Cream Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and dice the potatoes into ½-inch cubes or shred them using a box grater or food processor. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
3. Cook the potatoes for 8-10 minutes, or until just tender but not falling apart. If using shredded potatoes, skip this step and proceed directly to assembling the dish.
4. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly while you prepare the cream sauce.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
2. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in ½ cup of cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Layer the cooked (or raw shredded) potatoes evenly in the prepared dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring every piece is coated. Gently stir to combine if needed.
3. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. If desired, add a layer of breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
2. If the topping isn’t golden enough, broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve warm.

Ingredient Background

• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor, while Russet potatoes create a fluffier consistency.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold, tangy flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory note. You can also experiment with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
• Roux: A mixture of butter and flour, the roux is the foundation of the cream sauce, ensuring a smooth and thick consistency.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional, but they create a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
• Herbs and Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika enhance the flavor of the dish without overpowering the cheese and cream.

Technique Tips

• Par-Cook the Potatoes: Boiling the diced potatoes ensures they cook evenly and prevents them from becoming dry or undercooked in the oven. For shredded potatoes, skip this step as they cook faster in the cream sauce.
• Whisk the Sauce Constantly: To achieve a smooth, lump-free sauce, whisk continuously while adding the milk and cream to the roux.
• Layer for Maximum Flavor: Stir the sauce into the potatoes for even distribution, then add a generous cheese topping for that golden, bubbly finish.
• Broil for a Golden Crust: A quick broil at the end of baking enhances the color and texture of the cheese topping.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Delmonico Potato Casseroles: Divide the mixture into individual ramekins for an elegant, single-serving presentation. Bake as directed.
• Stuffed Delmonico Potatoes: Hollow out baked potatoes, mix the filling with the cream sauce and cheese, and stuff it back into the potato shells. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly.
• Skillet Delmonico Potatoes: Assemble and bake the dish in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
• Use a sharp cheddar for maximum flavor, as milder cheeses may get lost in the creamy sauce.
• For an extra-rich sauce, replace half the milk with additional heavy cream.

Recipe Variations

• Bacon Delmonico Potatoes: Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce or sprinkle it on top before baking for a smoky twist.
• Vegetable-Loaded Delmonico Potatoes: Mix in sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the cream sauce for a hint of heat.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute cauliflower florets for the potatoes to create a keto-friendly version of this classic dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover Delmonico Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the topping from burning.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use low-fat milk and cheese to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing creaminess.
• Replace some of the potatoes with steamed cauliflower for a lighter dish.
• Use olive oil instead of butter to make the dish slightly healthier.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Pair Delmonico Potatoes with roasted meats like prime rib, turkey, or glazed ham for a holiday feast.
• Serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette for a well-balanced meal.
• Add crusty bread or dinner rolls to complete a cozy, comforting dinner.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish (glass or ceramic) for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Medium saucepan for preparing the cream sauce.
• Whisk for a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use pre-shredded potatoes?
Yes, pre-shredded hash brown potatoes can save time and work well in this recipe. Thaw and drain them before use.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving.

Q3: Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Fontina can be used for a different flavor profile.

Q4: Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the roux.

Q5: How do I prevent the dish from becoming too runny?
Make sure to cook the cream sauce until thickened and avoid overcooking the potatoes before assembling the casserole.

Q6: Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes, the dish is delicious without breadcrumbs. However, they add a nice crunch if you prefer a crispy topping.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two smaller ones. Adjust baking time as needed.

Q8: Can I add protein to this dish?
Certainly! Cooked chicken, ham, or sausage can be mixed into the casserole for a heartier dish.

Conclusion

Delmonico Potatoes is a timeless dish that combines creamy, cheesy potatoes with a golden, crispy topping for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or weeknight dinners, this versatile recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, this indulgent side dish is guaranteed to become a favorite at your table. Try it today and savor the rich, satisfying flavors of this iconic recipe!

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