Picture this: a gathering of friends and family, laughter fills the air, and suddenly, a tantalizing aroma wafts from the kitchen. That’s when I first encountered Funeral Potatoes a creamy, cheesy casserole that can transform any meal into a comforting feast. As I scooped a hefty serving onto my plate, the bubbly, golden top crackling gently promised both indulgence and nostalgia.
Originally brought to potlucks as a convenient crowd-pleaser, this delightful dish has earned its place in homes across the country, often eliciting compliments and second helpings. It’s the perfect solution when you’re looking to break free from the mundane meals of fast food or just want to elevate your next family dinner. With a buttery cornflake topping that contrasts beautifully with the gooey, savory filling, these Funeral Potatoes are a guilt-free pleasure that always impresses guests.
Let’s dive into this easy yet memorable recipe, which you can personalize with your favorite toppings, creating a unique twist on a classic comfort food that everyone will love!
Why are Funeral Potatoes a Must-Try?
Comforting and indulgent, this dish is the epitome of home-cooked warmth. Easy to make, with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for all skill levels. Crowd-pleaser: whether at potlucks or family dinners, it consistently garners raves. Flexible variations let you tailor it to your taste switch up toppings or cheeses. Endless nostalgia, each bite evokes memories of gatherings and shared moments, ensuring this casserole becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Funeral Potatoes Ingredients
• This comforting dish comes together easily with familiar ingredients!
For the Casserole
- Frozen Hash Browns – Provides the base texture and bulk of the dish; thaw before mixing for better consistency.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and richness; serves as a binder for the ingredients. Substitution: Greek yogurt can lighten the dish.
- Shredded Sharp Cheese – Essential for a rich, cheesy flavor; cheddar is commonly used, but gouda adds depth.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Acts as a flavor enhancer and binds the mixture; use cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option.
- Butter – Enhances the richness of the potato mixture and topping; optional but recommended for flavor.
- Green Onions – Offers fresh flavor that balances the richness; optional for those who prefer a milder touch.
For the Topping
- Corn Flakes – Delivers a crunchy topping that adds texture; crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips can also be used for variation.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly, achieving that perfect bubbly texture.
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Combine thawed hash browns, sour cream, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and sliced green onions (if using) in a large bowl. Mix until well combined for a cohesive filling that’s creamy and full of flavor.
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Prepare the topping by crushing corn flakes in a ziplock bag. Mix the crushed flakes with melted butter and set aside for that satisfying crunch.
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Pour the potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, allowing it to set and meld the flavors.
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Uncover the dish and sprinkle the corn flake mixture on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling, making sure that enticing aroma fills your kitchen!
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Cool slightly before serving, ensuring the potatoes are tender throughout. This brief cooling period will make serving easier and more enjoyable.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Funeral Potatoes
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Thaw Hash Browns: Always ensure the hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture in your casserole, which can make it soggy.
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Season Tasty: Don’t skip tasting your mixture before baking. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors, ensuring the funeral potatoes are as flavorful as possible.
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Cheese Options: For an even creamier dish, feel free to increase the cheese quantity. Adding cream cheese to the mixture is a delightful option, making the casserole even richer and more indulgent.
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Crunch Factor: Switch up your topping! While corn flakes are traditional, consider crushed Ritz crackers or even potato chips for a unique texture and flavor twist in your funeral potatoes.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully before baking. Adjust baking time if cooking from chilled.
Funeral Potatoes Variations
Customize your Funeral Potatoes with these delicious twists that will delight and surprise your family and friends.
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Fresh Potatoes: Substitute thawed hash browns with freshly grated or cubed potatoes for a heartier texture.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of celery or cream of mushroom soup to make it vegetarian-friendly.
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Savory Add-ins: Fold in cooked bacon or diced ham for a flavorful protein boost that adds depth to the dish.
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Spicy Cheese: Use pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheddar for a delightful kick of heat that elevates the flavor experience.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the potato mixture for an aromatic lift that brings freshness to each bite.
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Creamy Upgrade: Incorporate cream cheese into the mixture for an even richer, creamier texture that oozes deliciousness.
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Crunchy Alternatives: Swap cornflakes for crushed Ritz crackers or even crispy fried onions for a different crunch and flavor.
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Flavor Fusion: Experiment with different toppings like BBQ sauce for a tangy twist or a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a zesty surprise!
How to Store and Freeze Funeral Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Freezer: For longer storage, after the casserole is fully baked and cooled, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen Funeral Potatoes, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until warmed evenly.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare Funeral Potatoes a day in advance; just cover and refrigerate before baking. Bake from chilled, adding extra time if necessary.
Make Ahead Options
These Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish by following the usual steps, then cover and refrigerate it before baking. To maintain optimal quality, ensure that your hash browns are thoroughly thawed to avoid excess moisture. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the casserole in the oven. Bake it from chilled for about 60-75 minutes, covering it with foil for the first half to lock in moisture. You’ll have a deliciously gooey and comforting dish that comes together with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes?
Imagine a cozy gathering where the savory aroma of baked comfort food envelops you, perfectly complemented by fresh, delicious sides.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken provides a light yet satisfying counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies add crunch and a pop of flavor that brightens the creamy dish.
- Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed in a tangy vinaigrette offer refreshing bites, balancing the warmth of the Funeral Potatoes.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery slices of garlic bread create a delightful texture contrast while enhancing the meal’s comfort factor.
For a sweet finish, consider serving a light dessert that doesn’t overshadow the flavors.
- Apple Crisp: This warm, fruity dessert with a crunchy topping pairs well, echoing the comforting textures of Funeral Potatoes.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade or iced tea cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft and gooey cookies can delight guests and provide a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of home baking.
Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of frozen hash browns are best for Funeral Potatoes?
For the best texture, I recommend using plain frozen hash browns without any added seasonings. Thaw them fully before mixing to ensure a creamy consistency without excess moisture. You can opt for shredded or cubed potatoes based on your preference!
How long can I store leftover Funeral Potatoes in the fridge?
Absolutely! Leftover Funeral Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until heated thoroughly to enjoy them again.
Can I freeze Funeral Potatoes, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Funeral Potatoes! After baking and cooling, place the casserole in an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until warmed throughout.
What if my casserole turns out too watery?
If you find your Funeral Potatoes are too watery, it’s likely because the hash browns weren’t fully thawed or drained. In the future, ensure that any excess liquid is wrung out before mixing. A simple fix for a watery casserole is to mix in a couple of tablespoons of breadcrumbs or additional shredded cheese before baking; this will absorb some of that moisture.
Are there any dietary substitutions I should consider for Funeral Potatoes?
Very! If you need a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. For a lighter touch, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, and you could also use dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs. Always check labels for allergens if you’re cooking for friends or family with food allergies.
Irresistibly Cheesy Funeral Potatoes for Every Gathering
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine thawed hash browns, sour cream, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and sliced green onions (if using) in a large bowl.
- Prepare the topping by crushing corn flakes in a ziplock bag and mixing with melted butter.
- Pour the potato mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Uncover the dish and sprinkle the corn flake mixture on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Cool slightly before serving.