If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender, perfectly cooked potatoes with a luscious, cheese-laden sauce that’s comforting and indulgent, making it a star at any family dinner or holiday gathering. The creamy texture paired with a hint of paprika on top creates a beautiful balance of flavor and richness that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is a timeless classic that elevates simple ingredients into a memorable side dish everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in transforming basic potatoes into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. They’re all easy to find but together create incredible depth of flavor and a silky texture that melts in your mouth.
- Diced cooked potatoes: Use tender, evenly cooked potatoes for the best base that absorbs the sauce perfectly.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux to thicken the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Essential for making the roux that gives the sauce its creamy, velvety texture.
- Milk: Provides mild creaminess and helps achieve the right sauce consistency.
- Heavy cream: Boosts the richness and makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the cheese’s richness.
- Pepper: Adds a subtle gentle spice to keep each bite interesting.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty goodness to the sauce for that classic comforting taste.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a savory crust with a slight tang when baked on top.
- Paprika: Sprinkled on top for color and a hint of smoky warmth that completes the dish.
How to Make Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat to lay the flavor foundation. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, creating a roux; this step is key to thickening your sauce without lumps.
Step 2: Thicken the Creamy Base
Now, slowly whisk in both the milk and heavy cream while maintaining medium heat. Keep stirring consistently until the sauce thickens, which usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. This is when your base transforms from liquid to luscious sauce.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, season it with salt and pepper. Then, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it melts completely and blends seamlessly to create that rich, cheesy goodness that is so signature to this recipe.
Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Sauce
In a large bowl, gently fold the diced cooked potatoes into the creamy cheese sauce. Take care to coat every piece thoroughly because this ensures every bite is loaded with flavor and velvety texture.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Transfer your potato and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. The butter or oil in the greased dish will help prevent sticking and adds a bit of extra richness around the edges.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top and dust lightly with paprika. This topping will give your Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe that irresistible golden crust once baked. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until you see bubbling edges and a beautiful browned top.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the sauce set a bit and makes it easier to serve neat portions without losing the creaminess inside.
How to Serve Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives will add a lovely pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor that balances the richness wonderfully. If you like a touch of heat, a few red pepper flakes can be a playful addition.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are fantastic alongside roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork, as they complement hearty flavors beautifully. For a lighter meal, serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add brightness and texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, try serving the Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets. This not only looks impressive but allows the golden crust on top to stay crispier for longer, amplifying the sensory experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their flavor well and are perfect for making quick lunches or dinners when you’re short on time.
Freezing
While creamy potatoes don’t always freeze perfectly because of the dairy content, you can freeze them for up to 1 month if needed. Make sure they’re cooled completely before freezing, and use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until bubbling and hot throughout, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving is also possible but may soften the crispy top, so oven reheating is preferred to retain that fantastic texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in the Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Just make sure they melt well to keep the creamy texture intact.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape when cooked and provide a creamy yet sturdy texture when combined with the sauce.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting butter with plant-based margarine, using a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond or oat milk, and choosing a dairy-free cheese substitute, you can enjoy a vegan version of this creamy dish.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply reheat gently while stirring before combining with the potatoes and baking.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Try adding a few breadcrumbs mixed with the Parmesan cheese on top before baking. The breadcrumbs toast nicely in the oven and add a delightful crunch to contrast the creamy interior.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about homemade comfort food, and this Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe is a shining example of just that. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels special every time. So go ahead, make it your next favorite side, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!
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Creamy Delmonico Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Delmonico Potatoes are a rich and comforting side dish featuring tender diced potatoes smothered in a smooth cheese sauce made with cheddar and Parmesan. Baked until golden and bubbly, this classic recipe offers a luscious, cheesy flavor perfect for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 4 cups diced cooked potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dish later.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux which will thicken the sauce.
- Prepare the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream into the roux. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine with Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the diced cooked potatoes into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes, followed by a light dusting of paprika for color and flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the sauce settle and thicken slightly.
Notes
- Use cooked potatoes that are slightly firm to prevent them from turning mushy during baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding finely chopped garlic or onions to the sauce while cooking the roux.
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with sharp white cheddar or a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- The paprika added on top not only adds flavor but also gives the dish a beautiful golden color.
