Funeral Potatoes

There’s just something magical about a bubbling dish of Funeral Potatoes making its way to the table. The golden crust, the creamy, cheesy interior, and that irresistible buttery crunch on top all come together in one bite of pure comfort. Whether you’ve had them at a potluck, church gathering, or Sunday dinner, this dish always feels like a warm hug.

Let’s step into the kitchen and bring this comforting classic to life.

Behind the Recipe

Growing up, Funeral Potatoes were the star of every family reunion and church function. The name might raise an eyebrow or two, but don’t let it fool you. This dish was served not just at somber gatherings, but also at celebrations of life, holidays, and just about any event that called for a soul-soothing casserole. It was the go-to for moms and grandmas who knew how to feed a crowd with love in every bite.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

This dish traces its roots to the American West, particularly within the Mormon community in Utah. It earned its unusual name because it was commonly served at post-funeral luncheons, where comforting and easy-to-make food was a necessity. But over time, its reputation grew. Today, Funeral Potatoes are found far beyond those beginnings, showing up on holiday spreads and weeknight dinners alike.

Why You’ll Love Funeral Potatoes

Sometimes you just need a dish that hits all the comfort notes. This one checks every box.

Versatile: Great as a side or the main attraction, perfect for brunch, dinner, or potlucks.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic, affordable pantry staples to create a hearty dish.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and simple steps make it weeknight-friendly.

Customizable: Add your own spin with toppings, mix-ins, or spice level.

Crowd-Pleasing: There’s rarely a spoonful left when this hits the table.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the day before, then bake when needed.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully and is just as tasty the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting it just right doesn’t take much, but here are a few pro tricks:

• Use frozen hash browns that are completely thawed to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t skimp on the butter in the topping—it creates that perfect golden crunch.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking so it sets properly before serving.
• Want an extra cheesy pull? Mix in some mozzarella with the cheddar.
• A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before baking adds depth and color.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a fancy setup to bring this dish together, just a few trusty tools.

Mixing Bowl: For combining all the creamy goodness.

9×13 Baking Dish: The perfect size to bake this casserole evenly.

Rubber Spatula: Great for folding ingredients without overmixing.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep things precise.

Aluminum Foil: Helps cover the dish if it starts browning too quickly.

Ingredients in Funeral Potatoes

Each ingredient here has its role in building up that iconic flavor and texture combo.

1. Frozen Hash Browns: 32 ounces, thawed. These are the hearty base of the dish and provide that potato comfort we all love.
2. Sour Cream: 2 cups. Brings creaminess and a tang that balances the richness.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces). Adds savory depth and ties everything together.
4. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups. Melts beautifully into every bite with that sharp cheesy punch.
5. Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (melted). Helps everything stay rich and also coats the topping perfectly.
6. Diced Onion: 1/2 cup. Adds a little bite and flavor complexity.
7. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Brings out the flavor of every ingredient.
8. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds just a hint of warmth.
9. Cornflakes: 2 cups, crushed. The crowning glory—crispy, buttery, and irresistible.
10. Chopped Fresh Parsley: For garnish. Adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.

Ingredient Substitutions

Life happens. Here’s how to adapt if you need to.

Cream of Chicken Soup: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian twist.

Cornflakes: Crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs also work great.

Sour Cream: Greek yogurt adds tang and protein if that’s more your style.

Cheddar Cheese: Try Monterey Jack for a creamier melt or pepper jack for a kick.

Ingredient Spotlight

Frozen Hash Browns: Pre-shredded and frozen, they save tons of prep time while still baking up tender and golden.

Cornflakes: More than just a cereal, they create that golden-crunchy finish that’s instantly recognizable and totally craveable.

Instructions for Making Funeral Potatoes

Get your apron on and let’s bring some nostalgic goodness to life. Here are the steps you’re going to follow:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, salt, pepper, and thawed hash browns. Stir until everything is well coated.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Assemble the Dish: In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes with melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this golden topping generously over the potato mixture.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
6. Finishing Touches: Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon onto plates and watch smiles appear instantly.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish is all about contrast and creaminess. The hash browns turn soft and tender inside while the cheesy mixture coats every bit. On top, that buttery cornflake crust shatters into crisp flakes, giving each bite a satisfying crunch that balances the richness. The mild bite of onion keeps things interesting, and the sharp cheddar cheese deepens every mouthful.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Little tricks make a big difference. Keep these in mind:

• Let the hash browns thaw fully and pat dry to avoid excess water.
• For extra flavor, sauté the onions briefly before mixing them in.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for a better melt and smoother texture.

What to Avoid

Even a classic like this can go sideways if you’re not careful.

• Using frozen hash browns straight from the freezer—they’ll release water and make everything soggy.
• Skipping the butter in the topping—it’s essential for that craveable crunch.
• Overmixing—fold gently to avoid mashing the potatoes.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10
Calories per serving: 360

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Funeral Potatoes are ideal for prepping ahead. You can assemble the whole dish a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake as usual. Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, freeze up to 3 months, and thaw overnight before reheating at 350°F.

How to Serve Funeral Potatoes

Serve alongside glazed ham, roasted chicken, or even just a fresh green salad. They’re a perfect side for holiday meals but cozy enough for a midweek dinner. Add a scoop to your brunch plate with eggs and fruit, or enjoy them solo with a bit of hot sauce if you like a kick.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a single bite go to waste.

• Shape into small patties and pan-fry until crisp on both sides—hello, potato cakes.
• Use as filling in a breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs.
• Mix into a frittata with a few beaten eggs and bake until golden.

Additional Tips

• Let the casserole rest before slicing—it’ll hold its shape better.
• A dash of garlic powder or chopped chives can elevate the flavor profile.
• Want a little heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or diced green chilies.

Make It a Showstopper

For presentation, sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the top just before serving. Serve in a rustic baking dish with a spoon ready to dive in. That contrast of golden topping against creamy filling is enough to wow every guest at the table.

Variations to Try

• Southwest Style: Add green chilies and use pepper jack cheese.
• Broccoli Boost: Fold in cooked chopped broccoli for extra veggies.
• French Onion Twist: Add caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese.
• Tex-Mex: Mix in taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips.
• Loaded Baked Potato: Stir in chopped scallions and a dollop of cream cheese.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this without canned soup?
A1: Yes, you can substitute with a homemade roux-based sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream.

Q2: What type of hash browns work best?
A2: Shredded frozen hash browns are classic, but cubed hash browns also work for a chunkier texture.

Q3: Can I make it ahead and freeze?
A3: Absolutely. Assemble, freeze before baking, and bake straight from frozen with extra time.

Q4: Is there a vegetarian version?
A4: Use cream of mushroom soup and skip the chicken-based ingredients.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A5: Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two and increase bake time slightly.

Q6: How do I reheat leftovers?
A6: Oven reheating at 350°F keeps the topping crisp. Avoid microwaving if you want the crunch.

Q7: Can I add meat?
A7: Diced cooked chicken or ham are common add-ins, just mix them in before baking.

Q8: Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
A8: No, bake uncovered to get that golden crust. If it browns too fast, loosely cover with foil.

Q9: What if I don’t have cornflakes?
A9: Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs work great as alternatives.

Q10: Can I make it in individual ramekins?
A10: Yes, just reduce baking time and watch for bubbling edges.

Conclusion

Whether you’re serving a crowd or just craving something rich and satisfying, Funeral Potatoes never disappoint. With their creamy texture, crispy topping, and endless adaptability, this dish brings comfort and flavor in every bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this one. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen too.

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