This Delmonico’s Copycat Potatoes Bake is a rich and creamy potato dish that is perfect for a special family dinner or holiday gathering. Inspired by the classic recipe from the famous Delmonico’s Restaurant, these potatoes are cheesy, savory, and sure to be a hit at your table. This dish is surprisingly easy to make and captures that decadent, restaurant-quality taste that everyone loves.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, or until they are just tender but not falling apart.
- Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Potatoes
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked potatoes with the cheese sauce. Gently stir to coat all of the potatoes evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- If desired, add breadcrumbs on top for a crispy texture.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Parboiling Potatoes: Make sure not to overcook the potatoes during parboiling, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Cheese Choices: For a true Delmonico experience, Gruyere is a must for its rich and nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with Swiss cheese if needed.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Adding breadcrumbs gives the dish a nice crispy texture, but it’s optional if you prefer a smooth, cheesy surface.
- Nutmeg: A small pinch of nutmeg adds warmth to the dish, but use sparingly, as it can easily overpower the other flavors.
Variations
- Add Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon can be added for extra flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce for more complexity.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish a little kick.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat cheese to reduce the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
3. Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can freeze this potato bake. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
4. What Other Types of Cheese Can I Use?
You can substitute the Gruyere with Swiss, and the cheddar with Colby or even Monterey Jack for a different twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly depending on the cheese used.
Delmonico’s Copycat Potatoes Bake is a classic comfort food that brings rich, cheesy, and creamy flavors to your table. Perfect for holidays or any time you’re craving a decadent side dish, these potatoes will definitely satisfy. Serve alongside a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or even on its own—it’s that delicious! Whether you’re recreating a taste of Delmonico’s at home or simply indulging in some cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy a true taste of comfort!