Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a classic and elegant side dish to elevate your meal? Delmonico Potatoes are a rich, creamy casserole rooted in culinary history—originating from the famed Delmonico’s restaurant in 1800s New York City. This make-ahead dish features tender shredded potatoes baked in a velvety cheddar cheese sauce with warm spices, making it perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or cozy family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, making it convenient for busy days.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar cheese and spices creates a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect for any occasion—from holiday feasts to casual family dinners—this side dish complements a variety of mains.
• Make-Ahead Option: Refrigerating overnight allows flavors to develop, enhancing the overall taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap cheeses or add herbs to tailor the recipe to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious Delmonico Potatoes Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 inch casserole dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: The right size ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desired golden top.
• Medium Saucepan: Perfect for heating the cream mixture; its size allows for easy stirring without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your creamy cheese sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 20 oz Simply Potatoes (1 bag, pre-shredded)
• 3/4 cup milk (1% or any preferred type)
• 3/4 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

How to Make Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Generously butter an 8×8 inch casserole dish. Spread the Simply Potatoes evenly in the dish.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat:
1. Combine the milk, whipping cream, kosher salt, dry mustard, pepper, and nutmeg.
2. Stir until the mixture is nearly boiling.

Step 3: Add Cheese

Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the potatoes in the casserole dish. Let it cool slightly before proceeding.

Step 5: Add Butter and Seasoning

Dot the top with butter slices and sprinkle with paprika.

Step 6: Refrigerate

Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 12 hours or overnight to let flavors meld.

Step 7: Bake

When ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole.
3. Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

This delicious Delmonico Potatoes Recipe is sure to impress at any gathering!

How to Serve Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

Delmonico Potatoes make for a delightful side dish that can complement various main courses. Their creamy texture and rich flavors pair beautifully with many dishes, making them versatile for any occasion.

With Roasted Meats

• Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of roast chicken enhance the creaminess of Delmonico Potatoes.
• Beef Tenderloin: This elegant pairing creates a classic dinner experience that impresses guests.

With Grilled Fish

• Salmon: The richness of salmon balances well with the cheesy potatoes, creating a satisfying meal.
• Tilapia: Lightly seasoned tilapia offers a fresh contrast to the hearty casserole.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Turkey: Delmonico Potatoes are a wonderful addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, adding comfort to festive meals.
• Glazed Ham: The sweetness of glazed ham complements the savory notes in this potato dish.

On a Cozy Night In

• With Salad: Pairing with a fresh garden salad adds crunch and lightness to your meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy it straight from the casserole dish while watching your favorite movie!

How to Perfect Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

To make your Delmonico Potatoes even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Boldly season your cheese sauce: Adding extra spices like garlic powder or onion powder enhances flavor depth.
• Boldly use fresh ingredients: Fresh nutmeg and quality cheddar make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Boldly experiment with cheeses: Try using Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Boldly layer your potatoes: For added texture, try layering the potatoes rather than just spreading them in one layer.
• Boldly adjust baking time as needed: Ovens vary; watch for that golden-brown top as an indicator of doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

Delmonico Potatoes pair well with several side dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy addition that’s easy to prepare and provides color to your plate.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add freshness and crunch alongside creamy potatoes.
3. Caesar Salad: This classic salad offers crisp lettuce and tangy dressing, balancing the richness of the potatoes.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots provide an excellent contrast in flavor and brighten up any meal.
5. Corn on the Cob: A summer favorite that complements the cheesy goodness of Delmonico Potatoes perfectly.
6. Coleslaw: The crunchy texture and zesty flavor of coleslaw offer a refreshing contrast to this rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the best results from your Delmonico Potatoes Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Using the wrong potato type: Ensure you use pre-shredded potatoes for the right texture. Freshly shredded potatoes may release too much moisture.
• Skipping refrigeration: Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Letting the casserole chill helps flavors meld and improves the final dish.
• Overcooking the cheese sauce: Heat the cheese sauce until just melted; overcooking can cause it to become grainy. Stir gently to maintain smoothness.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste your cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes. Adjust salt and spices to elevate flavor.
• Baking without proper coverage: Be sure to cover the casserole tightly while refrigerating. This prevents drying out and ensures a creamy texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing it to avoid condensation.

Freezing Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Portion into individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake uncovered until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese in this Delmonico Potatoes Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for different flavors.

How do I make this recipe ahead of time?

Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

What are some serving suggestions for Delmonico Potatoes?

These creamy potatoes pair well with roasted meats, green salads, or as part of a festive holiday spread.

Can I add vegetables to my Delmonico Potatoes Recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding cooked broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Delmonico Potatoes are an elegant side dish that elevates any meal with their rich flavor and creamy texture. This versatile recipe allows for customization with various cheeses or additional herbs. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, we encourage you to try this delightful casserole!