If you are on the hunt for a comforting, cheesy, and downright irresistible potato dish, this Delmonico Potatoes Recipe is the answer to your cravings. Imagine tender shredded potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy cheese sauce that bakes to a golden perfection—it’s the kind of side dish that steals the show on any dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these potatoes bring warmth, flavor, and just the right amount of indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to delicious Delmonico potatoes lies in keeping things simple but ensuring every ingredient plays its part perfectly. Each item adds to the creamy texture, the savory notes, or the vibrant color, creating that heavenly balance that this dish is known for.
- Frozen shredded hashbrown potatoes: Using thawed shredded potatoes gives you the perfect texture—soft but with just enough bite.
- Milk: Adds creaminess without overpowering the cheese flavor.
- Heavy cream: Brings richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the sauce.
- Dry mustard: Offers a subtle tang that enhances the cheesy goodness.
- Salt: Essential for balancing and amplifying all the flavors.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle, aromatic depth to the dish.
- Black pepper: Gives a mild kick, keeping the taste lively and interesting.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show, melting beautifully to coat every potato strand in cheesy bliss.
How to Make Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 350º F and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray so nothing sticks. Spread the thawed shredded hashbrown potatoes evenly in the pan, creating a base that will soon soak up all those yummy flavors. Setting them aside for just a moment prepares you for the next step of flavor-building.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. This blend is what takes the humble potatoes into rich, flavorful territory. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts fully and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy—trust me, the house will start smelling amazing right about now!
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Once your cheese sauce is perfectly melted and silky, pour it gently over the layer of potatoes in the pan. Spread it out so every piece gets covered. Pop the pan into the oven and bake uncovered for 1 full hour. This baking time lets the flavors meld beautifully while giving the top a bit of golden color and that slightly crisp edge that’s simply delightful.
How to Serve Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Delmonico Potatoes Recipe even further, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top before serving. These add a burst of color and a subtle fresh flavor that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the dish. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also introduce a warm, smoky note that’s unexpected but wonderful.
Side Dishes
This creamy potato dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains—think juicy roast chicken, grilled steak, or even a holiday ham. A crisp green salad or some steamed vegetables will provide a fresh counterbalance to the richness, rounding out a meal your family will ask for again and again.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try preparing individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets, which makes for a charming presentation at the dinner table. You can also add different cheeses—like Monterey Jack or Gruyère—mixed into the cheddar for depth. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions on top adds a delicious crunch and extra savory kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and you probably will!), simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making an easy and tasty extra side for your next meal.
Freezing
Delmonico potatoes freeze well if you want to save some for later. Transfer cooled portions into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of their delicious texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake uncovered at 350º F for around 20-30 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. You can also gently warm in the microwave, but baking helps keep that gorgeous golden crust intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen shredded hashbrowns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes, but be sure to rinse and dry them well to remove excess starch for the best texture. Frozen hashbrowns save time and give consistent results, which is why they are typically preferred.
What type of cheese works best in Delmonico Potatoes Recipe?
Cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe because it melts wonderfully while providing sharp, rich flavor. You can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variations, but sharp cheddar gives that iconic taste.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To lighten it up, you can try using reduced-fat milk and cheese or swap some heavy cream with additional milk. Just keep in mind this affects the creaminess and richness, which is part of what makes the dish so special.
Can I prepare Delmonico potatoes in advance for a party?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish earlier in the day and keep it refrigerated until it’s time to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I do to make the top extra crispy?
For a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 3-5 minutes of baking, but watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Adding a light sprinkle of panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking also helps create a delightful crust.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Delmonico Potatoes Recipe is a total game changer in the world of comfort food. Its simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright cozy. I really hope you give it a try soon because nothing beats gathering around a warm dish like this and sharing good food with great company.
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Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously creamy and cheesy Delmonico Potatoes baked to golden perfection, this comforting side dish features shredded hashbrowns smothered in a rich cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1 (32-oz) package frozen shredded hashbrown potatoes, thawed
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dry mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350º F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread the thawed shredded hashbrown potatoes evenly in the prepared pan and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Warm the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, then gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese has melted completely to form a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine and Pour: Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the layer of potatoes in the baking pan, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake: Place the pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, until the potatoes are bubbly and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispy top, you can broil the potatoes for 2-3 minutes after baking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese will add a stronger flavor to the dish.
- Allow the thawed potatoes to drain excess moisture for better texture.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the oven covered with foil to maintain moisture.
