Delmonico Potatoes (Rich, Creamy & Cheesy)

Alright, these Delmonico potatoes? They’re rich, cheesy, and loaded with layers of tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and golden melted cheese. Think of them as the ultimate comfort food side that steals the show.

I made them one holiday when I wanted something special but not complicated. Thinly sliced potatoes baked with a creamy blend of cheese, garlic, and onions until bubbly and perfectly golden on top. The aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone went back for seconds.

They’re creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of crispy on the edges. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself. Let’s bake a batch—you’re gonna love how indulgent and easy they are.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elevated Comfort Food: While easy to prepare, these potatoes feel refined and special thanks to the creamy texture and well-balanced seasoning.
• Velvety and Golden: The milk and cream mixture binds everything into a luscious sauce, and the top bakes into a crisp, golden cheese crust.
• Reliable Crowd Favorite: You can count on this dish disappearing fast, whether it’s a potluck or a weeknight meal.
• Adaptable: You can tweak the cheese, seasoning, or cream levels to fit your taste or dietary needs.
• Prep Ahead Friendly: Make it early in the day or the night before, then just bake before serving—no last-minute stress.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

This dish takes minimal active prep—most of your time is spent letting it bake to bubbly perfection in the oven. If using fresh shredded potatoes, be sure to remove as much moisture as possible for best results.

Servings

This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings as a side dish. Perfect for medium gatherings, family dinners, or holiday meals. You can easily scale up and prepare it in a larger dish for a crowd.

Difficulty

Easy.
You don’t need any fancy equipment or professional techniques. It’s straightforward enough for beginners but tasty enough to impress any dinner guest.

Required Kitchen Tools

Here are the tools you’ll want to gather before you start:

• 9×13-inch baking dish – Glass or ceramic works best to ensure even baking.
• Large mixing bowl – To combine the potato mixture evenly.
• Medium saucepan – For heating the cream and milk mixture with the seasonings.
• Balloon whisk – Helps distribute the mustard powder and nutmeg smoothly.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For folding the ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters in seasoning and liquid proportions.
• Box grater (if using block cheese) – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.

Ingredients for Delmonico Potatoes

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make the potatoes creamy, flavorful, and well-balanced. All ingredients are chosen for how they work together in texture and taste:

• 30 oz bag Simply Potatoes® Shredded Hash Browns
  These pre-shredded, refrigerated potatoes save time and provide the right consistency. No need to thaw or squeeze moisture if they’re not frozen.
• 1 cup whole milk
  The milk adds creaminess without making the sauce too heavy. It helps thin out the whipping cream just enough for even coating.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  Essential for creating the signature silky texture. It adds richness and gives the dish its indulgent mouthfeel.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  Enhances the flavor of the potatoes and balances the richness of the dairy. Use kosher for more consistent seasoning than table salt.
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
  Subtle but impactful—it adds just enough tang to cut through the creaminess without standing out.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  Adds a mild, warming spice that’s essential in cream-based dishes.
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  Nutmeg deepens the flavor and gives the dish a faint warmth and complexity that sets it apart. A little goes a long way.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  Choose sharp cheddar for bold flavor. Freshly shredded cheese is best as it melts more smoothly than bagged varieties.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  Mixed into the potatoes for flavor and added richness. Unsalted butter gives you full control over the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon paprika
  Sprinkled on top before baking to add mild flavor and a beautiful golden-red finish once baked.

How to Make Delmonico Potatoes (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

2. Warm the Cream Base

• In a medium saucepan, add the following:
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Place the pan over medium heat and whisk gently until the mixture is warm and steamy (do not boil). This helps the flavors bloom and the sauce blend better with the potatoes.

3. Mix the Potato Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, add:
  • 30 oz shredded Simply Potatoes
  • 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve the last ½ cup for topping)
• Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula to evenly coat the potatoes in the butter and cheese.
• Pour the warm cream mixture over the potato mixture and stir until everything is fully combined. Be gentle to avoid mashing the potatoes.

4. Transfer and Top

• Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• Dust lightly with ½ teaspoon paprika for color and flavor.

5. Bake

• Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until:
  • The top is bubbling and golden.
  • A knife inserted in the center comes out hot.
• If needed, broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese more deeply—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to settle and thicken slightly, making it easier to serve clean slices.

Variations for Delmonico Potatoes

• Cheese Options: Swap sharp cheddar for Gruyère, Swiss, or smoked gouda for a more refined or smoky flavor.
• Add Onions: Sauté diced onions in a little butter and mix them into the potatoes for sweetness and depth.
• With Garlic: Add 1–2 minced garlic cloves to the cream base while it warms for a mellow garlicky touch.
• Make it Meaty: Stir in cooked, chopped bacon or pancetta before baking for added richness and crunch.
• Low-Fat Alternative: Use half-and-half instead of full cream and low-fat cheddar if you prefer a lighter version.
• Frozen Hash Browns: If using frozen potatoes, thaw them completely and blot dry to remove excess moisture before mixing.

How to Serve Delmonico Potatoes

Delmonico Potatoes are a versatile side dish and pair well with a wide variety of main courses. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With Roasts: Perfect alongside roast beef, pork tenderloin, or holiday ham.
• With Chicken: Great with baked, grilled, or pan-seared chicken dishes.
• With Steak: A classic steakhouse pairing—especially ribeye or filet mignon.
• With Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• As Part of a Brunch Spread: Ideal for brunch with eggs, fruit, and toast.

Storing Delmonico Potatoes

• Refrigerator: Let leftovers cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the full dish in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes).
• Freezer (not recommended): Due to the cream and cheese, the texture may become grainy or separate when thawed. If freezing, wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month, then reheat from frozen.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own makes a big difference.
• Warm, Don’t Boil the Cream: Heating the cream gently helps the spices dissolve and improves how it blends with the potatoes.
• Broil for a Golden Top: For a crispier crust, broil the casserole uncovered for a few minutes at the end of baking.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: A 5–10 minute rest lets the dish set, so slices hold their shape and flavors meld.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	320
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	13g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	480mg
Carbohydrates	20g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	2g
Protein	9g
Calcium	200mg

Nutrition is approximate and based on 8 servings.

Delmonico Potatoes FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of shredded?
Yes. Peel and shred about 4–5 medium russet potatoes. Soak them briefly in cold water, then drain and squeeze out excess moisture with a towel.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.

What if I want it extra cheesy?
You can increase the cheese to 2½ or 3 cups total. Mix some into the top layer for a gooier finish.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients (especially the shredded potatoes and cheese) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Delmonico Potatoes are a deliciously simple side dish with a history of elegance and warmth. Made from humble ingredients like shredded potatoes, cream, and cheddar, it’s a dish that brings people together at the table. Whether for a casual weeknight meal or a holiday feast, these creamy baked potatoes add richness and comfort to any plate.