Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

Delmonico Potatoes are a timeless side dish that brings elegance and comfort to the table. With their creamy cheddar cheese sauce, warm spices, and tender shredded potatoes, this casserole has roots in 19th-century New York but continues to impress modern palates. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, attending a potluck, or just need a hearty addition to your family meal, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of flavor and texture.

What Makes Delmonico Potatoes Special?

This dish originated from the renowned Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City during the 1800s. Known for introducing fine dining to America, Delmonico’s helped shape culinary standards that still influence restaurants today. Their Delmonico Potatoes became a standout for their rich, creamy base and elegant presentation.

While variations of this recipe exist, the modern interpretation often includes shredded potatoes layered in a velvety cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Its appeal lies in its simplicity, make-ahead convenience, and the deep flavor that develops during baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the casserole the night before and bake it fresh the next day.
• Comforting and Elegant: Creamy, cheesy, and lightly spiced with mustard and nutmeg.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or special dinners.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the cheese, add herbs, or adjust seasoning to your taste.

If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent side dish that’s still elegant enough for a dinner party, Delmonico Potatoes should be at the top of your list.

Tools You’ll Need

To prepare Delmonico Potatoes with ease and precision, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• 8×8 inch casserole dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plastic wrap
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• The 8×8 inch casserole dish ensures the potatoes bake evenly and develop a golden top.
• A saucepan is needed to heat and combine the dairy and spices.
• A whisk helps keep the cheese sauce smooth and lump-free.
• Plastic wrap is essential for the overnight refrigeration process, allowing flavors to meld.

Preparation Tips for Success

• Use high-quality pre-shredded potatoes like Simply Potatoes for convenience.
• Stir the cheese sauce constantly to avoid curdling or graininess.
• Let the sauce cool slightly before pouring it over the potatoes to maintain texture.
• Refrigerating the casserole for at least 12 hours helps the flavors deepen and the consistency firm up.

Ingredients

Here’s a clear list of what you’ll need to make Delmonico Potatoes:

• 1 bag (20 oz) Simply Potatoes (pre-shredded)
• ¾ cup milk (any preferred type)
• ¾ cup whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided into 6 slices
• Paprika, for sprinkling

Optional Additions

• Fresh thyme or parsley
• Minced garlic or caramelized onions
• Substitute other cheeses like Gruyère or fontina

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the baking dish
   Generously butter an 8×8 inch casserole dish. Spread the shredded potatoes evenly in the dish.
2. Make the cheese sauce
   In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the milk, cream, salt, mustard, black pepper, and nutmeg. Heat until the mixture is just shy of boiling, stirring frequently.
3. Melt in the cheese
   Reduce the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar until smooth and fully melted.
4. Assemble the casserole
   Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the potatoes. Let it cool for a few minutes. Then dot the top with butter slices and sprinkle with paprika.
5. Refrigerate overnight
   Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
6. Bake and serve
   Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap and bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.

Notes

• Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
• Reheat in the oven for best results.
• This dish can be frozen after baking. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Delmonico Potatoes

This rich, creamy casserole is hearty enough to stand out but flexible enough to accompany a variety of main courses. Serve Delmonico Potatoes hot, directly from the baking dish, allowing the cheesy top to remain intact and golden.

Ideas for Presentation

• Garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives for color contrast.
• Sprinkle a bit more paprika on top before serving to enhance appearance and flavor.
• Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant plating during dinner parties.
• Use a sharp-edged spatula for clean, square servings from the dish.

These potatoes are often featured during holidays, but they work just as well at brunches, family dinners, and potlucks. Their versatility is part of their enduring popularity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Getting Delmonico Potatoes just right depends on technique and timing. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to fix them:

1. Using Cold or Raw Potatoes

Using raw or cold potatoes straight from the fridge without letting them come to room temperature can result in uneven baking. Always bring pre-shredded potatoes to room temperature before assembling the dish.

2. Overheating the Cheese Sauce

Cheese can break or turn gritty if heated too quickly. After the dairy mixture nears boiling, lower the heat before adding the cheddar. Stir gently and constantly until smooth.

3. Skipping the Refrigeration Step

The overnight rest in the refrigerator isn’t optional. It allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set properly. Skipping this step may result in watery or inconsistent texture.

4. Overbaking or Undercooking

Baking too long can cause dryness, while underbaking can leave the center cold. Bake uncovered until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges—usually around 45 minutes.

5. Not Seasoning Properly

Don’t skip the mustard and nutmeg. These add depth and warmth. Underseasoning leads to a bland result despite the richness of the cheese.

How to Make Delmonico Potatoes Perfect

With just a few expert touches, this dish can go from simple to spectacular.

• Use full-fat dairy: For the richest flavor, stick with whipping cream and whole milk.
• Choose high-quality cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers maximum flavor. Try a blend of cheddar and Gruyère for a more elevated version.
• Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and tastes better.
• Season in layers: Add a pinch of salt and pepper while building the cheese sauce, then adjust again before baking.
• Let it rest before serving: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Side Dish Pairings

Because Delmonico Potatoes are rich and creamy, they pair best with proteins and lighter vegetable sides that balance out the heaviness. Here are eight tried-and-true pairings:

1. Honey Baked Ham

The sweet and savory notes of baked ham complement the cheesy, spiced potatoes beautifully, making this a popular holiday pairing.

2. Roast Chicken

Simple roast chicken seasoned with herbs and garlic is a great match. The neutral flavor allows the potatoes to shine without overwhelming the plate.

3. Braised Beef Short Ribs

For a more luxurious meal, serve Delmonico Potatoes with slow-cooked beef. The deep, rich flavors are a perfect companion.

4. Grilled Asparagus

The crisp bite and slight char of grilled asparagus offer a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the potatoes.

5. Balsamic Glazed Carrots

These bring sweetness and acidity, balancing the dish while keeping the meal visually colorful.

6. Garlic Roasted Green Beans

Crunchy and full of flavor, green beans add freshness and texture.

7. Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing, crunchy croutons, and crisp romaine provide a refreshing bite next to the warm, cheesy casserole.

8. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft rolls are ideal for soaking up the extra sauce and completing the comfort-food experience.

Each of these pairings complements Delmonico Potatoes in texture and flavor, making them excellent choices for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Delmonico Potatoes

Here are some simple techniques that can elevate your Delmonico Potatoes and make them even more memorable.

• Use fresh, high-quality dairy: The richness of this dish depends on the quality of the milk and cream. Low-fat substitutes may reduce creaminess.
• Opt for aged cheddar: The sharper the cheese, the more intense and complex the flavor.
• Experiment with cheese blends: Gruyère, Fontina, or Havarti can be mixed with cheddar for a more nuanced flavor profile.
• Add aromatic enhancements: Caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or fresh thyme can deepen the overall taste.
• Toast the top: For an extra crispy finish, place the baked casserole under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Storage Instructions

Delmonico Potatoes are great for meal prep, leftovers, or freezing for later use. Proper storage ensures the texture and taste are preserved.

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Cool the casserole completely before refrigerating.
• Store in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
• Refrigerated leftovers will keep for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• You can freeze Delmonico Potatoes after baking and cooling.
• Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and use within 2 months for best results.
• For individual servings, portion the casserole before freezing.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, your goal is to bring back the creamy, smooth texture without drying it out.

Oven Reheating (Recommended)

• Preheat oven to 350°F.
• Place potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Optional: Add a tablespoon of milk or cream before reheating to restore moisture.

Microwave Reheating (For Convenience)

• Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish.
• Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap.
• Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until fully heated.
• Stir between intervals to distribute heat evenly.

Avoid reheating more than once to maintain the best texture and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Delmonico Potatoes different from au gratin?

While similar to au gratin potatoes, Delmonico Potatoes typically use pre-shredded or parboiled potatoes rather than thinly sliced raw ones. The sauce also tends to be thicker, incorporating mustard and nutmeg for added warmth and complexity.

Can I freeze this dish before baking?

Yes, though it’s best baked first for optimal texture. If freezing unbaked, assemble the casserole and wrap tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of pre-shredded?

You can. Peel and parboil fresh potatoes, then shred or dice before using. This adds prep time but allows more control over texture.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes. Use dairy-free milk (like oat or almond) and plant-based cream alternatives. Vegan cheese can also be substituted, though it may alter the melting characteristics.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. The basic recipe contains no flour or gluten ingredients. Always check the label on pre-shredded potatoes and cheese to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Do I need to cook the potatoes before baking?

No. The Simply Potatoes brand is pre-cooked and ready to use. If using raw potatoes, you should parboil them to ensure they bake properly.

Can I add protein to make this a main dish?

Absolutely. Add cooked bacon, ham, or diced rotisserie chicken between the layers for a heartier casserole.

Conclusion

Delmonico Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they are a tribute to American culinary heritage. Rich, creamy, and indulgent, they strike a balance between comfort food and fine dining. Their make-ahead convenience, flexibility in pairing, and deeply satisfying flavor make them ideal for everything from family meals to holiday celebrations.

By mastering the key techniques and applying a few pro tips, you can make this classic recipe a go-to in your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it as part of a holiday spread or a cozy weeknight dinner, Delmonico Potatoes deliver warmth, flavor, and lasting satisfaction.

For more classic side dishes and casserole recipes, visit our Comfort Food Recipes Collection or check out our Holiday Menu Planner.