Potatoes DelMonico
Potatoes DelMonico is the ultimate comfort side dish, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy experience. Thinly sliced russet potatoes are layered with a velvety cream sauce infused with garlic and thyme, then topped with a blend of Parmesan and Gruyère cheeses. As it bakes, the dish becomes golden, bubbling, and irresistibly aromatic — the perfect accompaniment for any meal.
Ideal for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or a special weeknight indulgence, this recipe combines creamy textures, savory herbs, and a rich cheesy crust. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of softness, melt-in-your-mouth creaminess, and crispy, golden edges.
Ingredients & What They Do
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced – Become tender and creamy when baked.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Adds luxurious richness and forms the velvety sauce.
- ½ cup whole milk – Lightens the cream for a balanced, silky texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor and golden crust.
- ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese – Gives smooth melt and subtle tang.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses aromatic flavor.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter – Enriches and smooths the sauce.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Provides warm herbal undertones.
- Salt & black pepper – To taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Place sliced potatoes in cold water to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry before layering.
Step 3: Make the Cream Mixture
Heat cream, milk, garlic, thyme, butter, salt, and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. Do not boil.
Step 4: Begin Layering
Layer potatoes in the dish, sprinkle cheeses, and drizzle cream mixture. Repeat until ingredients are used.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 40–50 minutes until tender.
Step 6: Uncover and Brown
Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Step 7: Rest
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairs well with roasted meats, poultry, or seafood.
- Serve with salad or roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Slice potatoes evenly.
- Do not boil the cream mixture.
- Use both cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Pat potatoes dry to avoid watery sauce.
- Cover for most of baking; uncover to brown.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
- Reheat: Oven at 325°F for 10–15 min; broil briefly to crisp top.
Why This Recipe Works
A harmony of creamy, tender layers and a golden, flavorful top. The combination of thyme, garlic, cream, and cheeses creates comfort food elevated to gourmet quality.
Final Thoughts
Potatoes DelMonico is the perfect blend of elegance and comfort. Easy enough for weeknights yet impressive for holidays, this creamy, cheesy dish will become a repeat favorite.