We’ve always had a soft spot for comforting sides that bring the family together, and Mr Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe does just that with its gooey cheese and crispy edges. This classic American favorite draws from simple roots in Midwestern kitchens where hearty, no-fuss dishes reign supreme.
What makes it irresistible is how easy it is to whip up using everyday ingredients yet deliver bold flavors that wow at any gathering. We’re excited to share our take on this timeless recipe so you can add it to your go-to collection.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe, we focus on the key ingredients that create its comforting, gooey appeal. We’ve curated this list in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for precision and ease.
- Frozen hash browns: 1 bag (about 2 pounds), thawed – These form the sturdy base, providing that signature crispy texture when baked.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick), melted – We use this first to coat the dish and enhance richness; melt it just before mixing.
- Diced onion: 1 medium onion (about 1 cup), finely chopped – Added early for a subtle sweetness that complements the cheese.
- Sour cream: 2 cups – We recommend full-fat for creaminess; stir it in next to bind the flavors.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces), undiluted – This brings moisture and a savory depth; keep it at room temperature.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups, divided – Bold cheddar works best for that irresistible melt; reserve half for topping.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper, to taste – Season generously here to elevate the overall taste.
- Crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs: 1 cup, for topping – We add these last for a crunchy finish that contrasts the cheesy interior.
This selection highlights the Midwestern simplicity of Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe, using everyday items to deliver bold, family-favorite flavors.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our key ingredients like thawed frozen hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese, we need the right tools to mix, prepare, and bake our Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe to perfection. These essentials ensure smooth preparation and that crispy, gooey finish everyone loves.
To keep things organized, we’ve compiled a list of the required tools below, grouped by preparation stage for easy reference:
- Mixing and Measuring Tools:
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to combine ingredients like hash browns, sour cream, and cheese, ensuring even distribution for a creamy texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate measurements of items such as 1 cup of melted butter or 1 teaspoon of salt, helping achieve the recipe’s balanced flavors.
- Knife and cutting board: We rely on these to finely chop onions, adding that subtle sweetness without any uneven pieces.
- Baking and Serving Tools:
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This is our go-to for baking the casserole, allowing the potatoes to form those irresistible crispy edges while the cheese melts into a gooey center.
- Oven: Preheated to 350°F, we use it to bake the dish for about 45-60 minutes, transforming everyday ingredients into a comforting Midwestern favorite.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: We employ this for stirring and serving, making it simple to mix in the condensed cream of chicken soup and transfer portions.
If you’re missing any tools, most are common kitchen items that enhance efficiency—think of them as the unsung heroes that make our recipe preparation seamless and enjoyable.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe with simple, foolproof steps. Let’s create this comforting, gooey dish that combines crispy potatoes with a rich cheese sauce for a family favorite.
Prepare the Potatoes
First, we start by thawing the frozen hash browns completely to ensure they mix evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture. In a large mixing bowl, we combine 2 pounds of thawed frozen hash browns with 1 cup of finely chopped onions and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, stirring vigorously until the mixture is well-coated and the onions release their subtle, sweet aroma that promises layers of flavor.
Make the Cheese Sauce
Next, we create the heart of the dish by whisking together 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup, 2 cups of sour cream, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese in a separate medium bowl. We season this blend with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, heating the mixture gently over low heat on the stovetop until it becomes a smooth, velvety sauce that melts in your mouth with its sharp, tangy notes and creamy consistency.
Assemble and Bake
Finally, we layer the prepared potatoes into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pouring the warm cheese sauce evenly over the top and sprinkling 1 cup of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. We bake the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes, watching as the edges turn golden and crispy while the center bubbles with gooey cheese, filling the kitchen with an irresistible, comforting scent that signals it’s ready to serve.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that life gets busy, so we’re excited to share how to prepare our beloved Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe in advance, ensuring you can enjoy its gooey cheese and crispy edges without last-minute hassle. This approach keeps the dish’s comforting flavors intact while making mealtime effortless.
Preparing the Dish Ahead
Follow these steps to assemble the recipe up to 24 hours in advance:
- Step 1: After mixing the thawed hash browns, onions, and melted butter as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, combine them with the cheese sauce in your 9×13-inch baking dish. We recommend covering the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Step 2: Prepare the crunchy topping separately by crushing the cornflakes or breadcrumbs and storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps their texture crisp for when you’re ready to bake.
- Step 3: Refrigerate the assembled dish immediately. Place it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and enhance that rich, savory profile we all crave.
Storing and Freezing Options
For longer storage, we suggest freezing the assembled dish to preserve its hearty appeal:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Ensure the dish is fully cooled before covering; this maintains the bubbly cheese consistency when baked. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Wrap the assembled dish in freezer-safe material, then place in a freezer bag; thaw overnight in the fridge to avoid sogginess in the hash brown base. |
Reheating and Baking Tips
When it’s time to serve, we’ll guide you through reheating to achieve that perfect golden, bubbly finish:
- Step 1: Remove the dish from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even baking. If frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 350°F as specified. Add the crunchy topping evenly over the dish for that satisfying contrast of textures.
- Step 3: Bake as per the original instructions, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time if refrigerated, or 20–25 minutes if frozen. Check for doneness by looking for crispy, golden edges and a hot, bubbling center.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we can all savor the timeless comfort of Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe whenever the moment strikes.
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe and its timeless charm. It’s a dish that effortlessly brings people together with its hearty flavors.
As we wrap up we’re excited for you to make it your own. Trust us it’s a go-to that’ll elevate any meal and create lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe?
Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potato Recipe is a comforting Midwestern side dish featuring gooey cheese, crispy edges, and simple ingredients like hash browns and cheddar. It’s perfect for family gatherings, offering bold flavors from everyday items and easy preparation that brings people together.
What ingredients are needed for Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potatoes?
You’ll need thawed frozen hash browns for the base, melted unsalted butter, chopped onions, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for topping. These common ingredients combine to create a creamy, crunchy dish in under an hour.
What tools are required to make this recipe?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a knife and cutting board for chopping, a 9×13-inch baking dish, and a preheated oven at 350°F. A spatula or wooden spoon helps with mixing and serving, ensuring smooth prep and a perfect crispy finish.
How do you make Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potatoes step by step?
Start by thawing hash browns and mixing with onions and butter. Whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese for the sauce. Layer potatoes and sauce in a baking dish, add a crunchy topping, and bake at 350°F until golden and bubbly—about 45-60 minutes for a hearty result.
Can I prepare Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potatoes in advance?
Yes, assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Store the crunchy topping separately to keep it crisp. This make-ahead option makes it ideal for busy days, allowing you to bake fresh when needed for that warm, comforting texture.
How should I store and freeze Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potatoes?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap the baked dish tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy consistency and prevent sogginess.
What are the best tips for reheating and baking Mr. Dell’s Cheesy Potatoes?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes until bubbly, or use a microwave for quicker results but cover to avoid drying. For baking from frozen, add 10-15 minutes to the time. Always check for a golden top and use a spatula to stir gently for even heating.