If you’re ready for a side dish that effortlessly steals the show at family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike, let me introduce you to this Delmonico Potatoes Recipe. Creamy layers of tender potatoes are blanketed in a luscious cheese sauce and finished with a crisp, buttery breadcrumb topping, making every bite a celebration of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re new to this classic casserole or have fond childhood memories tied to it, this dish brings together the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy – a sure-fire crowd-pleaser you’ll make over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how a simple handful of humble ingredients come together to make magic. Each element adds something special – whether it’s creamy body, cheesy richness, or that irresistible golden crust. Here’s what makes Delmonico Potatoes Recipe so delicious:
- Russet potatoes: Their fluffy texture soaks up the cheesy sauce and holds their shape beautifully after baking.
- Butter: Adds richness to both the cheese sauce and the crisp breadcrumb topping.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce and creating that luxurious, velvety texture.
- Whole milk: Gives the sauce its creamy base without making it too heavy.
- Heavy cream: Brings an extra level of decadence and a subtle, dreamy flavor.
- Garlic powder: Infuses gentle, savory depth to every forkful.
- Onion powder: Lends a mild sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
- Salt: A must to heighten flavors and balance out the richness.
- Black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and earthy complexity.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that classic tangy, cheesy flavor we crave.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the savory, umami notes and adds layer upon layer of flavor.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs: Crisp up perfectly for a golden, crunchy finish.
- Melted butter (for topping): Helps those breadcrumbs toast up to perfection and adds a final hit of richness.
How to Make Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into neat half-inch cubes. This size ensures they cook quickly and remain tender in the final dish. Simmer them gently in salted water until just fork-tender, for about 6–8 minutes; they’ll finish cooking as they bake, so you don’t want them too soft at this stage. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. This quick step (just a minute or so) lays the foundation for an ultra-creamy sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, pausing to let each addition fully incorporate before adding more. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, letting the sauce bubble gently for about 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Take the pan off the heat, then add sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and dreamy.
Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Cheese Sauce
Pour those perfectly parboiled potato cubes right into your cheese sauce and fold everything together gently. Every piece should be gloriously coated, setting the stage for that signature Delmonico Potatoes Recipe richness in every bite.
Step 4: Layer and Top
Transfer the cheesy potato mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish (or something close in size). In a separate bowl, combine seasoned breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. This duo ensures your topping will be golden, crisp, and oh-so-buttery. Scatter the mixture evenly over the potatoes.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Slide the dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’re looking for a molten, bubbly casserole with a deeply toasted topping. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving – this brief pause is when the sauce thickens and everything comes together beautifully.
How to Serve Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle your Delmonico Potatoes Recipe with snipped fresh chives, chopped parsley, or even a dusting of smoked paprika. These finishing touches make the casserole feel festive and invite everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with classic main courses – think juicy roast chicken, glazed ham, a tender pork loin, or even a grilled steak. For balance, add a leafy salad or some simple steamed greens on the side to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for an elegant dinner party vibe, or scoop the potatoes into hollowed-out baked potatoes for a playful twist. For potlucks, bring the casserole in a deep, oven-to-table dish – the golden crust will draw a crowd every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully as it rests, making for even tastier second helpings.
Freezing
You can freeze Delmonico Potatoes Recipe, though the texture may change slightly after thawing. For best results, assemble the casserole (without baking or adding the breadcrumb topping), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, add breadcrumbs, and bake as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Uncover for the last few minutes to re-crisp the topping. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven yields the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Yes! While russet potatoes provide that ideal soft, fluffy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes work well and add a lovely buttery flavor. Just make sure to keep the cubes consistent in size for even cooking.
Is it possible to lighten up the Delmonico Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely. You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese if you prefer a lighter touch. Low-fat milk will work, but your sauce may be a bit less creamy.
Can I make Delmonico Potatoes Recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend (such as a rice flour-based mix) and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I add more flavor or tweaks to this recipe?
Feel free to stir in chopped cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or thinly sliced scallions before baking. Gruyère or Swiss cheese can be swapped in for a different cheesy profile, and a dollop of sour cream mixed in before baking adds lovely tang.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, pull it from the fridge while the oven preheats, add the breadcrumb topping, and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
I can’t say enough about the cozy, irresistible charm of the Delmonico Potatoes Recipe – it’s the ultimate companion for everything from holiday feasts to casual Sunday dinners. If you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to a seriously satisfying side, give this timeless dish a try. Once you taste that cheesy, bubbling goodness with its golden crunch, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Enjoy every bite!
PrintDelmonico Potatoes Recipe
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Delmonico Potatoes, a classic comfort food side dish that’s perfect for any gathering or weeknight meal. Layers of tender potatoes are smothered in a rich cheddar and Parmesan cheese sauce, topped with buttery breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Potatoes:
- 4 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes (1/2-inch cubes)
Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the potatoes: Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for 6–8 minutes until just tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk and cream. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly thickened, then stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until smooth.
- Combine potatoes and sauce: Fold parboiled potatoes into the cheese sauce, then pour into a greased baking dish.
- Add topping and bake: Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over the top of the potatoes. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let rest before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, add sour cream or chopped cooked bacon before baking.
- Gruyère or Swiss cheese can be used for a deeper flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg