Cheesy Creamy Potato Casserole

Featured in Meatless meals that satisfy.

These creamy, cheesy potatoes are topped with a rich sauce for a luxurious side. Prepare it a day ahead to save time and let the flavors develop. It's perfect for busy holidays or anytime you want a special dish.

alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Thu, 29 May 2025 18:04:03 GMT
Close-up of a bubbling cheesy potato casserole garnished with parsley on top. Pin it
Close-up of a bubbling cheesy potato casserole garnished with parsley on top. | tasteofsavor.com

I’ve gotta tell you about this tried-and-true dish that everyone requests when they come over. You make these Delmonico potatoes ahead of time and they always wow a crowd. There’s nothing like digging into a cheesy, extra-creamy potato bake with whatever protein you’ve got on hand. Cool fact? The nod to the legendary New York Delmonico’s restaurant is real, and honestly, it’s clear why folks still make it after all these years.

Why This Meal Stays On Repeat For Me

This one’s honestly a lifesaver. You can snag a bag of already shredded potatoes (because who wants to wash that grater, right?) and that’ll speed things up. Mixing sharp cheddar with real cream and milk makes it crazy rich and delicious. Wanna know the best perk? You can make it days in advance and double up the batch for big gatherings.

Grab These Items Before You Start

  • Shredded Potatoes: I usually use the store-bought Simply Potatoes since it saves time. If you’d rather go homemade, just cook and grate four or five potatoes yourself.
  • Rich Cheddar: Freshly shred a sharp cheddar block for bonus flavor, or use what’s in your fridge already shredded.
  • Milky Goodness: Both heavy cream and regular milk—trust me, you need both in this.
  • Flavor Boosters: Don’t forget paprika, pepper, nutmeg, salt, and dry mustard powder to round everything out.
  • All The Butter: Dot some butter on the casserole. More is always better on top.
A close-up of a cheesy, creamy baked casserole with a crispy golden top in a white baking pan. Pin it
A close-up of a cheesy, creamy baked casserole with a crispy golden top in a white baking pan. | tasteofsavor.com

Time To Whip It Up

Prepping the Pan
Butter up your 8x8 baking dish, then dump in those shredded potatoes nice and even.
Creamy Cheese Action
On your stove, warm milk, cream, mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over medium. Whisk till it’s almost boiling, then toss in the cheese and let it melt, stirring. Pour that all over the potatoes.
Chill Out
Let the whole thing cool for a sec. Top with pieces of butter and a good shake of paprika. Cover up and stick it in the fridge to hang out overnight.
Bakery Magic
The next day, remove the cover, set your oven to 350°F, and bake about 45 minutes or until it’s gold and all bubbly on the edges.

Tricks For Nailing It Every Time

Here’s how I make sure it always turns out right. Grate your potatoes fresh if you want, but store-bought works for busy days. Really go for even sauce coverage so every bite’s awesome. Chill it in the fridge overnight because it honestly gets so much better by morning. Making extra? Throw it in a 9x13 dish and leave it in the oven for a full hour.

Bring It To The Table

This casserole goes with everything—roast beef, pork chops, baked chicken, or whatever you like. Didn’t finish it all? Put leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days and warm them at 375°F with foil until hot and cheesy again. While I skip freezing before baking, I’ve found that extra pieces hold up in the freezer just fine if cooked first.

A luscious, cheesy potato dish with a golden top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Pin it
A luscious, cheesy potato dish with a golden top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. | tasteofsavor.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap fresh potatoes for Simply Potatoes?

Yes, fresh potatoes work, but you'll need to slice them thin and pre-cook slightly. Simply Potatoes save time since they're ready to go.

→ Why refrigerate the casserole overnight?

Letting it sit overnight helps the potatoes soak up the flavorful sauce. It makes the dish richer and saves you time on busy days.

→ Can the casserole be frozen?

Freezing is possible, but the texture of the sauce might change a bit. It’s best stored in the fridge and eaten fresh within 3 days for the best taste.

→ What can I use instead of whipping cream?

Half-and-half is a lighter option, though the sauce won't be as rich. A mix of milk and cream gives the ideal texture and flavor balance.

→ Why are these called "Delmonico" potatoes?

They get their name from Delmonico's Restaurant in New York, known for its upscale, cheesy potato dishes. This version is a creamier twist on classic scalloped potatoes.

Cheesy Potato Casserole

This creamy casserole blends sharp cheddar and cream for a delicious side. Make it ahead for parties or family meals—it suits any occasion.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (One casserole)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 teaspoon of dry mustard.
02 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
03 1 bag (20 oz) of Simply Potatoes.
04 Dash of ground nutmeg.
05 Dash of black pepper.
06 3/4 cup of any milk you like.
07 3 tablespoons of butter divided into 6 parts.
08 3/4 cup of whipping cream, any brand.
09 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
10 Some paprika to sprinkle on top.

Instructions

Step 01

Make sure your casserole dish (8x8 inches) is completely greased.

Step 02

Lay the potatoes evenly across the dish.

Step 03

Combine the cream, milk, dry mustard, nutmeg, pepper, and salt in a saucepan.

Step 04

Warm the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until it’s just shy of boiling (about 5-10 min).

Step 05

Turn down the heat, toss in the cheese, and stir until it melts completely.

Step 06

Drizzle the cheesy mixture all over the potatoes.

Step 07

Give it a few minutes to cool off slightly.

Step 08

Dot the top with the butter slices.

Step 09

Dust the surface with a little paprika.

Step 10

Cover it tightly with plastic film.

Step 11

Let it rest in the fridge for 12 hours or overnight.

Step 12

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 13

Put the dish in the oven and bake it, uncovered, for about 45 minutes.

Notes

  1. Got a crowd? Double it and use a 9x13 dish.
  2. The flavors really set if left in the fridge overnight.
  3. Pairs wonderfully with any kind of meat!
  4. Stays fresh for up to 3 days in your fridge.

Tools You'll Need

  • Casserole dish (8x8 inches).
  • A medium pot.
  • Whisk for stirring and mixing.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy: milk, cream, butter, and cheese.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 32 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 35 g
  • Protein: 12 g