Potatoes DelMonico
Potatoes DelMonico is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of creamy cheese and tender potatoes. This recipe offers a modern twist on a classic favorite, featuring a luscious sauce made from sharp cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and a blend of spices.
The use of frozen hash browns makes preparation quick and easy, while the dish’s hearty nature ensures it is satisfying and fulfilling.
Perfect for family gatherings or as a warm side dish on a chilly evening, Potatoes DelMonico is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its irresistible combination of creamy textures and savory flavors. Indulge in this comforting culinary creation that brings warmth and joy to any dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Potatoes DelMonico is a beloved recipe for several reasons, making it a staple in many kitchens. Here’s why people are sure to fall in love with this dish:
Rich and Creamy Comfort: The combination of heavy cream and sharp cheddar cheese creates a delectably creamy sauce that envelops the potatoes, offering a comforting and indulgent experience with every bite. This rich texture is perfect for those who enjoy dishes that are both satisfying and luxurious.
Ease of Preparation: Using frozen hash browns significantly reduces prep time, making this dish easy to assemble. It’s a convenient option for busy cooks who want to serve a homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavorful Spice Blend: The addition of garlic powder, dried mustard, and parsley provides depth of flavor, elevating the dish from simple to sophisticated. These spices enhance the taste of the cheese and potatoes, making each mouthful flavorful and exciting.
Versatile Side Dish: Potatoes DelMonico pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Its universal appeal ensures it complements a wide range of cuisines and dining occasions.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served at a family gathering, holiday feast, or casual dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit. Its comforting nature and rich flavors make it a favorite among adults and children alike, ensuring empty plates and happy diners.
Key Ingredients:
Frozen Hash Browns: Serving as the base of the dish, frozen hash browns provide convenience and a satisfying texture. They absorb the rich cheese sauce beautifully, resulting in a tender and flavorful bite.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated sharp cheddar is the star of the show, offering a bold and tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Its melting quality ensures a smooth, luxurious texture throughout the dish.
Heavy Cream and Milk: This combination forms the creamy backbone of the sauce, creating a rich and silky consistency. The blend of heavy cream and milk ensures the dish remains indulgent while balancing the richness with a touch of lightness.
Spices and Seasonings: A mix of ground black pepper, salt, dried mustard, garlic powder, and parsley infuses the dish with a depth of flavor. These spices enhance the natural taste of the cheese and potatoes, adding complexity and warmth.
Potatoes DelMonico
Ingredients
32 ounces, frozen hash browns
¼ tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Parsley, dried
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
4 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350*
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with a non-stick spray
Pour the frozen hash browns into the prepared pan
In a large saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream and dried mustard. Add in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
Mix together well and bring to a simmer
Once the mix is simmering, add in the grated cheese and stir until it is melted
Pour the milk and cheese mixture over the potatoes
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes
Enjoy!
Notes:
Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor and melting qualities, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste profile. Mixing cheeses can also add complexity to the dish.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: If you prefer a fresher taste, you can substitute dried parsley with fresh parsley. Simply increase the quantity, as fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor than their dried counterparts.
Texture Variations: For added texture, consider incorporating breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the dish during the last 15 minutes of baking. This will create a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
Make-Ahead Option: Potatoes DelMonico can be prepared in advance. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Dietary Adjustments: For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and milk. However, keep in mind that this may affect the creaminess of the final dish. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, ensure that all ingredients, especially any added toppings, are certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, and can also be served alongside grilled vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. It’s versatile enough to be a side dish or a hearty main course.
Nutrition Information:
YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 1110 | TOTAL FAT: 84g | SATURATED FAT: 40g | TRANS FAT: 2g | UNSATURATED FAT: 35g | CHOLESTEROL: 198mg | SODIUM: 1414mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 50g | FIBER: 5g | SUGAR: 4g | PROTEIN: 43g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Simply peel and grate the potatoes to replace the frozen hash browns.
Keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary when using fresh potatoes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese according to your taste preferences. While the recipe calls for Sharp Cheddar Cheese, you can try using other varieties such as Mozzarella, Colby, or Monterey Jack.
Can I use alternative seasonings?
Absolutely! If you prefer different flavors, you can adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even incorporate spices like paprika or onion powder to enhance the flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the prepared dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.
When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as instructed.
Can I add additional ingredients to the dish?
Absolutely! You can add extra ingredients to customize the Potatoes DelMonico. Some popular additions include cooked bacon, diced onions, chopped bell peppers, or even sliced mushrooms.
These additions can add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt.
This will reduce the overall fat content while still providing creaminess.
Can I add additional vegetables or ingredients to the dish?
Absolutely! Potatoes DelMonico can be customized with additional ingredients. You can add diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or cooked bacon to enhance the flavors and add extra texture.
Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to your preferences.
Can I prepare Potatoes DelMonico ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. After pouring the milk and cheese mixture over the potatoes, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate it.
When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and then bake as instructed.
This can be convenient for meal planning or when hosting gatherings.