Funeral Potatoes

Picture this: a casserole dish bubbling with creamy, cheesy potatoes topped with a perfectly golden, crunchy crust that makes your mouth water before you even take a bite. Funeral potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that has transcended their somber name to become a beloved staple at family gatherings, holiday tables, and yes, even post-funeral luncheons across America. This hearty potato casserole combines frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream soup, plenty of cheese, and that irresistible crispy topping that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. You’ll learn how to create this crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort while achieving maximum flavor that will have your guests requesting the recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about funeral potatoes that turns even the pickiest eaters into devoted fans. The brilliant contrast between the velvety, cheese-laden potato mixture and the buttery cornflake crunch on top creates an irresistible texture experience in every bite. This casserole is incredibly forgiving—even novice cooks can achieve spectacular results with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator.

What really sets these funeral potatoes apart is their versatility. They complement virtually any main dish, from holiday ham to backyard barbecue, making them the ultimate side dish for any occasion. The prep work takes just minutes, and while the casserole bakes to golden perfection, you’re free to focus on other dishes or socialize with your guests.

Perhaps most importantly, this dish carries the comforting nostalgia that only true heritage recipes can deliver. One bite can transport you back to family gatherings and warm memories, which is precisely why these cheesy potatoes have endured as a beloved tradition for generations.

Ingredients

For this classic funeral potatoes recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 2 cups (16 oz) sour cream
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (can substitute cream of mushroom for vegetarians)
• ½ cup (4 oz) butter, melted, plus 2 tablespoons for topping
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
• ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)

The quality of cheese makes a significant difference in this dish—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent proper melting, so freshly grated cheese is highly recommended. The condensed soup provides a creamy base, while the sour cream adds tanginess that balances the rich flavors in this classic cheesy potato casserole.

Pro Tips

Thaw Hash Browns Properly: For the best texture in your funeral potatoes, always thoroughly thaw your frozen hash browns before mixing. Place them in the refrigerator overnight or spread them on a baking sheet at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. Blot excess moisture with paper towels—this prevents a watery casserole and ensures your potatoes achieve that perfect creamy consistency.

Create Flavor Layers: While the basic recipe is delicious, elevate your funeral potatoes by sautéing a small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in butter before adding to the mixture instead of using powders. This develops a deeper flavor profile that makes the dish more memorable. For an extra flavor boost, add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the mixture.

Perfect Your Topping: The cornflake topping is what sets funeral potatoes apart from ordinary potato casseroles. For the ultimate crispy crown, wait until just before baking to add the cornflake mixture. Drizzle the additional melted butter evenly over the cornflakes and avoid pressing them down—this maintains their light, crispy texture. For even more decadence, mix 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese into the cornflake topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures your funeral potatoes will come out of the dish easily when serving.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup with the sour cream, stirring until smooth. Add the melted ½ cup of butter, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing until well incorporated. This creamy mixture forms the luscious base that will coat every shred of potato.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Cheese

Fold in the thawed hash browns and 1½ cups of the grated cheddar cheese, making sure every potato shred is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting if necessary. The cheese will melt during baking, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout your funeral potatoes.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the potato mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the surface to create an extra cheesy middle layer beneath the crunchy topping.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Crunchy Topping

In a medium bowl, gently crush the cornflakes with your hands, leaving them coarse enough to provide texture. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter and toss to coat. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your funeral potatoes for that signature crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown. If the cornflakes begin to brown too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. Let the funeral potatoes rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set up properly.

Prep time: 30 minutes
Active time: 30 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes plus 45 minutes baking

Variations

Loaded Baked Potato Style: Transform traditional funeral potatoes into a loaded baked potato experience by adding 6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon, ¼ cup sliced green onions, and an extra ½ cup of cheese to the potato mixture. Top with a combination of crushed cornflakes and crumbled bacon before baking, then garnish with a dollop of sour cream and additional green onions after baking for an over-the-top potato casserole that channels all the flavors of a loaded baked potato.

Southwest Cheesy Potatoes: Give your funeral potatoes a southwestern kick by adding 1 can of drained diced green chiles, ½ cup corn kernels, 1 teaspoon cumin, and substituting pepper jack for half of the cheddar cheese. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of cornflakes for an appropriate crunchy finish, and serve with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for bright, fresh contrast to the rich casserole.

Vegetarian Mushroom Option: Create a vegetarian-friendly version of funeral potatoes by using cream of mushroom soup and adding 8 ounces of sautéed mushrooms to the potato mixture. The earthy mushroom flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy base, adding depth and making this side dish substantial enough to serve as a main course for vegetarian guests.

Storage and Serving

Funeral potatoes are perfect for make-ahead convenience. Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours before baking, but add the cornflake topping just before it goes in the oven. Store the unbaked casserole (without topping) covered in the refrigerator, allowing it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the topping won’t retain its crispness. For better results, reheat larger portions in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

For elegant serving, pair funeral potatoes with glazed ham and roasted asparagus for a traditional Sunday dinner. They also complement grilled steak beautifully, with the creamy potatoes balancing the savory meat. For a potluck, transport the casserole in an insulated carrier and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions just before serving to add a pop of color to this golden dish.

FAQs

Can I make funeral potatoes with fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute 4 cups of shredded fresh potatoes. Peel and shred the potatoes, then rinse under cold water and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess starch. This prevents the casserole from becoming gluey.

Why are they called funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes earned their name because they’re traditionally served at post-funeral luncheons, particularly in Mormon communities. The dish is easy to make in large quantities, comforting, and can be prepared ahead—all important qualities for food served at gatherings after services.

Can I freeze funeral potatoes?
Absolutely! Funeral potatoes freeze exceptionally well. Prepare the casserole without the cornflake topping, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the cornflake topping, and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for cornflakes in the topping?
If you don’t have cornflakes, use 1½ cups of crushed potato chips, buttered bread crumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even French’s fried onions for the topping on your funeral potatoes. Each will provide a different but equally delicious crunchy texture.

Can I add protein to make this a main dish?
Yes! Transform funeral potatoes into a complete meal by adding 2 cups of diced ham, shredded rotisserie chicken, or browned ground beef to the potato mixture before baking. This creates a hearty one-dish meal perfect for busy weeknights.

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