Don’t let the name fool you Funeral Potatoes are anything but somber. In fact, they’re the life of the party (or potluck, or Sunday dinner, or literally any gathering). This classic casserole is creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped, and downright addictive. It’s the kind of dish that makes people go back for seconds (and thirds) without hesitation.

Loaded with hashbrowns, smothered in a velvety cheese sauce, and topped with a buttery, golden crust, Funeral Potatoes are a warm hug in casserole form. Whether you’re bringing them to a family event or just craving some comfort food, trust me this one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Funeral Potatoes

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect alongside ham, roast chicken, or even as the main dish. It’s a fit for brunches, holidays, or cozy nights in.

Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable pantry staples and frozen hashbrowns it’s hearty without hurting your wallet.

Quick and Easy: Toss everything together, spread it in a dish, bake, and boom comfort served.

Customizable: Swap in different cheeses, add green chiles or bacon, or use crushed cornflakes instead of chips. It’s easy to make it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Funeral Potatoes

Here’s the magic of this dish: simple ingredients that come together to create something irresistibly rich, creamy, and crave-worthy.

Frozen Hash Browns

Shredded or cubed these are the hearty base of the dish and soak up all the delicious sauce.

Cream of Chicken Soup

The shortcut to velvety, savory goodness. It creates that creamy texture we love.

Sour Cream

Adds tanginess and richness to balance out the flavors and create an ultra-smooth sauce.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Melts into gooey perfection. You can use sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mix with Monterey Jack.

Butter

Melted butter adds richness to the sauce and helps crisp up that crunchy topping.

Onion

Finely chopped onion brings just the right amount of bite and savory depth to every scoop.

Garlic Powder

Simple but powerful it rounds out the savory flavor without overpowering.

Salt and Pepper

Season to taste and don’t skip! These bring everything into perfect balance.

Cornflakes or Potato Chips

The crispy, golden topping that makes this dish irresistible. Crushed cornflakes are classic, but potato chips bring salty crunch magic too.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). That golden, bubbly top won’t happen without it.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Fold in the shredded cheese and hash browns until everything is evenly coated.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to keep cleanup easy and the casserole from sticking.

Assemble the Dish

Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared dish.

Cook to Perfection

Bake uncovered for about 40–45 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden.

Finishing Touches

While it’s baking, mix your crushed cornflakes or chips with a little melted butter. Sprinkle them over the top of the casserole during the last 10–15 minutes of baking for that crispy finish.

Serve and Enjoy

Let cool slightly before serving, then scoop generously and watch it disappear. This is pure comfort in every bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Funeral Potatoes

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve alongside ham, roast chicken, turkey, or steak as a creamy side.
– Pair with scrambled eggs and fruit salad for a comforting brunch.
– Add a green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced plate.
– Enjoy it solo with hot sauce or ketchup if that’s your vibe.
– Serve at holidays, potlucks, and family dinners it’s made for sharing!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Thaw frozen hash browns slightly for easier mixing.
– Don’t skip the topping it’s what gives the dish its iconic crunch.
– Use reduced-fat sour cream and soup for a lighter version.
– Leftovers reheat well pop them in the oven or microwave.
– Add diced ham, bacon bits, or chopped green chiles for fun twists.

FAQs

1. Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

2. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Freeze before baking (without the topping) and bake from frozen or thaw first.

3. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes shred or cube them and parboil first to ensure they cook through.

4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist.

5. Can I use cream of mushroom or celery instead of chicken soup?
Totally! It’ll slightly change the flavor, but still delicious.

6. How do I keep the topping crispy?
Add the topping during the last 10–15 minutes of baking and don’t cover the casserole.

7. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use cream of mushroom soup and skip any meat-based add-ins.

8. What’s a good substitute for cornflakes?
Crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips work great—choose your crunch!

9. How long do leftovers last?
Stored in the fridge, they’ll keep well for up to 4 days.

10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—cook on low for 4–5 hours, then add the topping and cook uncovered for 30 more minutes if possible.

Conclusion

Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food rich, creamy, cheesy, and topped with that perfect buttery crunch. Whether you’re bringing them to a gathering or just making them for a cozy night in, this dish always hits the spot. Easy to whip up and impossible to resist, it’s no wonder they’ve earned their place at every potluck table. Go ahead make a batch and watch the magic happen!

Print