We’ve always been fans of comforting classics that bring people together, and Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole is a standout favorite in American comfort food. Originating from simple, hearty ingredients like frozen hashbrowns, this dish delivers cheesy goodness with a crispy top that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
As recipe lovers, we’re thrilled to guide you through this easy-to-make version that keeps things straightforward yet flavorful. It’s a go-to that promises smiles all around without fussing in the kitchen.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole, we focus on the simple yet flavorful ingredients that make this dish a go-to comfort food. These components combine to deliver a cheesy, crispy texture that’s perfect for family gatherings, as we’ve highlighted in our previous overview.
To prepare this recipe, we gather the following ingredients in the order they are typically used. We’ve noted any necessary prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- Frozen hashbrowns: 1 package (about 2 pounds, thawed) – These form the hearty base, providing that signature crispy texture when baked.
- Sour cream: 1 cup – Added next for creamy tanginess that balances the richness of the dish.
- Cream of chicken soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces, undiluted) – This binds the ingredients together, infusing a savory depth as it’s mixed in.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups, divided – Use 1 cup for the main mixture and reserve 1 cup for topping; it melts into gooey perfection, enhancing the cheesy appeal.
- Finely chopped onion: 1 medium onion (about 1 cup) – Incorporate for a subtle crunch and aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted – This is stirred in to add moisture and a golden, buttery finish.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper, to taste – Season the mixture for a well-rounded flavor profile.
| Serving Size | Hashbrowns (pounds) | Cheese (cups) | Prep Time Adjustment (minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 servings | 1 | 1 | +5 |
| 6 servings | 1.5 | 1.5 | +10 |
| 8 servings | 2 | 2 | +15 |
Equipment Needed
Now that we’ve outlined the key ingredients for our Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole, let’s gather the essential tools to bring this comforting dish together seamlessly. Using the right equipment ensures even mixing, perfect baking, and that signature crispy top we all love.
To prepare this recipe efficiently, we’ll need the following items. We’ve bolded the equipment names for easy reference and included brief notes on their roles:
- Large mixing bowl: For thoroughly combining ingredients like thawed hashbrowns, sour cream, and cheese to achieve a uniform mixture.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Ideal for baking the casserole to get those golden, crispy edges that make Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole so irresistible.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate measurements of items such as shredded cheddar cheese and melted butter, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F to bake the dish evenly, allowing the flavors to meld and the top to crisp up perfectly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Handy for stirring and transferring the mixture into the baking dish without any mess.
By having these tools ready, we can streamline our preparation process and focus on creating a delicious, family-friendly Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole that impresses at any gathering.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and equipment, let’s prepare Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole with ease. We’ll walk you through each step to create a cheesy, crispy dish that’s perfect for family gatherings.
Prep
Before we mix everything, we’ll get our ingredients ready for optimal flavor and texture. Start by thawing 2 pounds of frozen hashbrowns completely—either overnight in the refrigerator or using a microwave on defrost setting for about 5-7 minutes—to ensure they blend smoothly without clumps. Next, finely chop 1 medium onion into even pieces, aiming for about 1 cup, to add a subtle crunch and savory depth. In a large mixing bowl, measure and combine 1 cup of sour cream for creaminess, 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of chicken soup for rich savory notes, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to promise that gooey, melted goodness we love. Finally, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until fully liquid, stirring once to avoid splattering—this step infuses moisture and helps bind the mixture for a perfectly cohesive casserole base.
Assemble
With our prepped ingredients in hand, we’ll now combine them into a mouthwatering mixture. In the large mixing bowl, add the thawed hashbrowns, chopped onion, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir everything together vigorously until the mixture is evenly coated and looks irresistibly creamy—this should take about 2-3 minutes to ensure each hashbrown piece is fully incorporated for that signature crispy texture. Once mixed, transfer the blend to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out smoothly with the back of the spoon to create an even layer that promises golden edges and a tender center when baked.
Bake
To achieve that irresistible cheesy, crispy finish, preheat our oven to 350°F for even heat distribution. Place the assembled dish in the center of the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, checking at the 45-minute mark by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean, indicating the casserole is fully set. As it bakes, the top will turn a golden-brown hue and emit an aroma of melted cheese and onions that will make your kitchen irresistible. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up slightly before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we delve deeper into perfecting Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole, Make-Ahead Instructions allow us to simplify meal prep for busy days or gatherings, ensuring our dish remains as cheesy and crispy as ever. This approach lets us assemble the casserole in advance while preserving its signature texture and flavor.
Assembling Ahead of Time
To prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, we follow these streamlined steps after mixing the ingredients as outlined in the previous section:
- Thaw and mix ingredients early: Start by thawing the frozen hashbrowns completely, then combine them with the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is evenly creamy.
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading it out smoothly for even baking later.
- Cover and refrigerate: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. This halts the cooking process while keeping flavors fresh.
Storage Guidelines
For longer storage, we can freeze the assembled casserole to extend its usability. Below is a quick reference table for optimal storage times and tips:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Store at 40°F or below; avoid overcrowding in the fridge to prevent sogginess. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Wrap the dish twice in foil for extra protection; label with the date for easy tracking. |
Reheating and Baking Instructions
When we’re ready to serve, reheating is straightforward and helps maintain that golden-brown crust:
- From the refrigerator: Remove the cover and bake directly in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to enhance texture.
- From the freezer: Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator first, then bake as above. For a crispier top, uncover during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid steaming the edges.
By following these make-ahead steps, we ensure our Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole is convenient yet delivers the same comforting, crowd-pleasing results every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole and how it brings warmth to any table
It’s a timeless favorite that combines ease with irresistible flavors
As we wrap up let’s encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own
You’ll discover it’s not just a dish but a go-to for creating lasting memories
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole?
Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole is a classic American comfort food made with simple ingredients like frozen hashbrowns, sour cream, cheese, and onions. It’s a cheesy, crispy dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, offering easy preparation and big flavor without much fuss.
What are the key ingredients for Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole?
The main ingredients include thawed frozen hashbrowns as the base, sour cream for creaminess, cream of chicken soup for savory depth, shredded cheddar cheese for gooeyness, chopped onion for flavor, and melted unsalted butter for moisture. These combine to create a delicious, hearty dish.
How do I prepare Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole?
Start by thawing hashbrowns and mixing them with sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and melted butter in a large bowl. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45-55 minutes until golden and set. Let it rest before serving for the best texture.
Can Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Mix the ingredients, transfer to a baking dish, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed. For longer storage, freeze the assembled casserole and reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy texture and flavor.
How long does it take to make Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole?
Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, and baking takes 45-55 minutes at 350°F. Total time is roughly 1 hour, but you can adjust for larger batches. It’s a quick, straightforward recipe ideal for busy days.
What equipment do I need for Mr. Dell’s Hashbrown Casserole?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a 9×13 inch baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, an oven preheated to 350°F, and a spatula or wooden spoon. These tools help streamline the process for easy, mess-free preparation.