Name: Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 810 min
Ingredients: 4 large Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes (Use these for the best texture and creaminess.); 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Substitute with mild cheddar for a gentler flavor.); 1 cup Whipping Cream (Half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.); 1/2 cup Milk (Any milk type works, including dairy-free options.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For greasing your baking dish and enhancing flavor.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.); to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)

As I rummaged through my kitchen, a forgotten bag of Yukon Gold potatoes caught my eye, and suddenly, nostalgia hit me like a warm hug. The solution? A Classic Delmonico Potatoes Recipe that promises to elevate any meal you serve. This dish is not only a creamy and cheesy ode to comfort food, but it also brings a touch of history from the renowned Delmonico’s restaurant in New York City, making it perfect for those who appreciate a slice of culinary heritage. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a side dish that effortlessly impresses. Plus, it’s perfect for make-ahead solutions, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones while the flavors meld together. How could you resist giving this delightful recipe a try?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting, a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, the Classic Delmonico Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Rich and Creamy, each bite is a luxurious blend of sharp cheddar and whipping cream that’s hard to resist. Easy to Prepare, with minimal prep steps, you’ll have more time to enjoy with your guests. Versatile Sidekick, it pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be the star of your holiday table! For additional comfort food, try these Christmas Tree Meringues for a sweet finish. Best of all, Make-Ahead Friendly, you can prepare it a day in advance, letting the flavors meld perfectly!

Delmonico Potatoes Recipe Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Yukon Gold or Russet Potatoes – Use these for the best texture and creaminess in your Delmonico Potatoes recipe.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – This adds richness; substitute with mild cheddar for a gentler flavor.
• Whipping Cream – Provides the luscious creaminess; half-and-half can be a lighter alternative.
• Milk – Balances the sauce; any milk type works, even dairy-free options like almond milk.

For Assembling
• Unsalted Butter – For greasing your baking dish and enhancing flavor; helps control saltiness.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust them to cater to your taste preferences.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delmonico Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you’re ready to bake your Classic Delmonico Potatoes, the oven will be hot enough to create that perfectly golden crust. While the oven warms up, gather and prepare your ingredients to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides well, as this helps prevent sticking and adds flavor. A well-greased dish not only aids in easy serving but also enhances the overall enjoyment of your Delmonico Potatoes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
If you’re using fresh potatoes, wash, peel, and dice them into chunks. Boil the potato pieces in salted water for about 15–20 minutes or until they are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and let them cool slightly before shredding, creating that creamy texture essential for the Delmonico Potatoes.

Step 4: Shred the Potatoes
Using either a grater or your hands, shred the cooked Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into a large bowl. If you opt for the convenience of pre-shredded potatoes, simply stir them into the bowl. This step is crucial, as the shreds will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite rich and comforting.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sharp cheddar cheese, whipping cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and well-blended, ensuring that the sharp cheddar is evenly distributed throughout. This creamy sauce is what brings your Delmonico Potatoes to life, providing that irresistible rich flavor.

Step 6: Combine Potatoes and Sauce
Pour the creamy sauce over the shredded potatoes, mixing gently to ensure every strand is coated. You want to create a delightful blend that holds together but does not become mushy. Once combined, spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, setting the stage for a satisfying bake.

Step 7: Chill for Flavor Development
Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it overnight. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your Classic Delmonico Potatoes. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 2–3 hours in the fridge to reap some flavor benefits.

Step 8: Bake the Dish
When ready to bake, remove the foil and place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake the Delmonico Potatoes covered for 30 minutes, allowing them to heat through evenly. Then, uncover and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes. Watch for a golden-brown top, which is the perfect indicator of a delicious crust.

Step 9: Allow Cooling
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This cooling period helps the layers to set, making it easier to serve. The result should be creamy Delmonico Potatoes with a rich, cheesy crust beckoning everyone to dig in.

Delmonico Potatoes Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious Delmonico Potatoes! Your taste buds will thank you for the adventure.

Sautéed Aromatics: Add sautéed onions or garlic to the creamy sauce for a fragrant twist that elevates flavor. The richness of onions combined with garlic’s pungency is simply irresistible.
Meaty Indulgence: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish that brings smoky flavors to the table. Imagine the savory aroma as it bakes – it’s comfort food heaven!
Cheese Exploration: Experiment with different types of cheese such as gouda or gruyere for a unique flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its own personality, making every batch a delightful surprise!
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant boost. The freshness of these herbs complements the creamy texture beautifully, transforming your potatoes into a fragrant feast.
Spicy Kick: For heat lovers, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to give your Delmonico Potatoes a spicy twist. This will certainly excite your palate and add an unexpected depth!
Nutty Flavor: Consider topping your dish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before baking. This texture twist adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy interior, making each bite more satisfying.
Vegetable Variation: Fold in finely chopped spinach or kale for a nutritious spin. This not only boosts the dish’s color but adds a wholesome aspect—talk about a win-win!

For more delightful recipes, check out these comforting classics: Warm Green Potatoes and Duchess Potatoes Luxurious. Enjoy making your Delmonico Potatoes uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Delmonico Potatoes

Refrigerator: Store leftover Delmonico Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the unbaked assembled Delmonico Potatoes by wrapping the dish tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This maintains the creamy texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare Delmonico Potatoes in advance, refrigerate, or freeze before baking, allowing you to enjoy that creamy comfort food anytime!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Delmonico Potatoes are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by following the steps up to the chilling point. After combining the shredded potatoes with the creamy sauce, cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it overnight. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring a comforting result that’s just as delicious when baked. When ready to serve, simply bake the dish as directed—30 minutes covered and an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered—resulting in a creamy, cheesy side that will impress your family with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Classic Delmonico Potatoes

Elevate your classic Delmonico Potatoes with these delightful pairings that will make your meal unforgettable.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, it complements the richness of the potatoes for a comforting meal. The savory spices from the chicken enhance the creamy texture, creating a harmony on your plate.
Grilled Asparagus: The slight crunch and fresh taste of grilled asparagus provide a lovely contrast to the creamy potatoes. Plus, its bright color adds a beautiful visual appeal to your dining experience.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender, and vibrant, honey-glazed carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy richness of Delmonico Potatoes.
Creamed Spinach: Rich and velvety, this dish mirrors the creamy consistency of Delmonico Potatoes, creating a symphony of textures. Together, they offer a comforting, indulgent side experience.
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Seasoned to perfection, this succulent pork with a crispy herb crust contrasts deliciously with the creamy potatoes. Each bite balances meatiness with velvety richness—a delightful pairing.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this wine brings out the sharp cheddar’s flavor while cutting through the creaminess, creating a refreshing contrast that adds sophistication to your meal.
Apple Crisp: Finish off your meal with this warm dessert featuring a crispy topping and tender fruit. Its sweetness beautifully offsets the rich flavors, leaving a comforting, satisfied feeling.
Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread serves as a delightful side that adds a different texture and flavor element, making it a perfect pairing on your table.
Coleslaw: Crisp, tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that balances the heaviness of the potatoes, adding a vibrant pop to your plate.
Garlic Bread: Savory and buttery, garlic bread is a simple yet fantastic accompaniment that enhances the overall meal experience with its aromatic flavor.

Expert Tips for Delmonico Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes to achieve the perfect creamy texture in your Delmonico Potatoes recipe. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the desired fluffiness.
Avoid Overcooking: When boiling the potatoes, don’t let them become mushy; aim for fork-tender. This helps preserve the structure needed for the creamy sauce to cling.
Chill Time Matters: Refrigerate your assembled dish overnight for the best flavor development. If short on time, allow at least a couple of hours, but overnight is ideal.
Watch the Bake: Cover the dish with foil initially to ensure even cooking. Remove it later to achieve a beautiful golden crust—keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like gouda or gruyere for a unique twist on traditional Delmonico Potatoes. This can elevate the flavor profile delightfully.

Delmonico Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for Delmonico Potatoes?
Absolutely! For the best texture and creaminess, it’s recommended to use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. These varieties break down nicely as they cook, ensuring a luxurious mouthfeel in your Delmonico Potatoes. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they tend to stay firm, which may not yield the desired creamy result.

How should I store leftover Delmonico Potatoes?
For sure! Store any leftover Delmonico Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors again later. Just remember to reheat them in the oven for the best results.

Can I freeze Delmonico Potatoes?
Very much so! You can freeze the unbaked assembled Delmonico Potatoes. Simply wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake them directly from the freezer, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if the potatoes are overcooked?
If you find your potatoes are a bit mushy after boiling, don’t worry! While this will affect the texture somewhat, use a light hand when mixing the shredded potatoes with the creamy sauce. Be gentle to avoid them breaking down further. A firm, cohesive layer in the baking dish will still give you that creamy comfort you crave.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you have dietary considerations, such as lactose intolerance, you can swap the whipping cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a nut-based cream. For cheese alternatives, look for lactose-free cheese or vegan cheese options available at most grocery stores. Just make sure to check the labels for any allergens that may be present.

What’s the best way to ensure a crispy top on Delmonico Potatoes?
To achieve that delicious, golden crust, I recommend removing the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up. Also, if you crave an even crisper finish, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep a watchful eye to prevent it from burning!