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Delmonico Potatoes Recipe – A Creamy, Cheesy Classic Side Dish

Delmonico Potatoes are the epitome of elegant comfort food. Originally made famous in upscale New York City restaurants in the 19th century, these creamy, cheesy potatoes have stood the test of time — and for good reason. Imagine a dish that balances golden-baked richness, velvety texture, and crispy, cheesy topping all in one heavenly bite. This recipe is perfect for holiday dinners, Sunday roasts, or cozy nights in. It pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to vegetarian mains and is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner home cooks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥬 Fruits et légumes:
  • 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes peeled and diced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 small shallot or onion finely chopped (optional)
🧂 Aides culinaires et épices:
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional, for tang
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley for garnish optional
🧈 Produits laitiers:
  • 3 tbsp butter unsalted
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated

Method
 

Step 1: Prep and Boil Potatoes
  1. Peel and dice the potatoes into small, evenly-sized cubes.
  2. Place in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add salt.
  3. Bring to a boil and cook until just tender, about 8–10 minutes.
  4. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and shallots (if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly.
  5. Add Dijon mustard (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Simmer until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
  1. Remove sauce from heat.
  2. Stir in cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  3. Fold in the drained potatoes until fully coated in the cheesy sauce.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  4. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
  5. For extra crisp topping, broil the last 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve It Up
  1. Let cool slightly before serving.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Notes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Perfect alongside roasted meats like steak, ham, or pork tenderloin
Pair with roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian meal
Top with crispy bacon bits for a rich twist
Serve with a green salad for contrast
🔄 Variations
Deluxe Delmonico: Add cooked pancetta or bacon to the mix
Extra Cheesy: Mix in gruyère or fontina cheese for deeper flavor
Low-Carb Option: Use steamed cauliflower instead of potatoes
Spicy Version: Stir in cayenne or diced jalapeños for heat
Make It Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through
Microwave in portions for quick serving
Freezing:
Can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in fridge and bake as directed
❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but fresh shredded melts smoother and tastes better.
2. What kind of potatoes are best?
Russet or Yukon gold work best for creaminess and structure.
3. Can I add meat to make it a main dish?
Absolutely — try diced ham, chicken, or bacon.
4. Is this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour for the roux and you're set!
5. Can I make it ahead?
Yes, prep everything and bake the next day.
6. What’s the difference between Delmonico and au gratin?
Delmonico is creamier, with a thicker sauce and richer cheese blend.
7. Can I use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes — the texture will be a bit lighter but still creamy.
8. What if my sauce is too thin?
Simmer it longer, or add more cheese to thicken.
9. Can I make it in a cast iron skillet?
Yes, just ensure it’s oven-safe and well-greased.
10. How do I prevent the top from burning?
Cover with foil if it browns too quickly; uncover to crisp at the end.
💡 Pro Tips
Boil potatoes just until fork-tender — not mushy
Use a whisk to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce
Don't skip the Dijon — it elevates the flavor subtly
Grate cheese fresh from the block for smoother melting
Let the dish rest before serving to set and enhance flavor
🏁 Conclusion
Delmonico Potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish: creamy, cheesy, satisfying, and elegant enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a crowd at the holidays or craving a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers big on flavor and timeless appeal.
So gather your ingredients, stir up some creamy goodness, and get ready to wow your taste buds — one cheesy bite at a time. 🧀🥔✨