Perfecting Funeral Potatoes: Easy Cheesy Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, hearty satisfaction of Funeral Potatoes. Despite its somber name, this beloved casserole has become a star at family gatherings, holiday feasts, and potlucks. Packed with cheesy goodness, a creamy base, and a crispy topping, it’s the perfect dish to bring people together.

Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in some high-calorie happiness, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Funeral Potatoes.

What Are Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy potato casserole typically made with shredded hash browns, a rich cream soup base, and lots of melty cheese, all topped with a crunchy, buttery coating. This dish gets its name because it has long been a staple comfort food served at post-funeral gatherings in the American Midwest. Despite the name, Funeral Potatoes aren’t limited to somber occasions—they’re now a hit at any event where comfort food is in demand.

Why Are Funeral Potatoes a Crowd Favorite?

Before we get to the recipe, it’s worth noting why everyone loves Funeral Potatoes:

• Indulgent Texture: The combination of creamy potatoes and a crispy, golden topping is irresistible.
• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences—add bacon, swap in Greek yogurt, or use fresh herbs for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: This casserole feeds a crowd, making it ideal for holidays, potlucks, and family dinners.

Now that your mouth is watering, let's dive into how to make the ultimate Funeral Potatoes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this cheesy masterpiece:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (or your favorite melty cheese)
• ½ cup diced onion (optional for added flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Crispy Topping:

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or panko breadcrumbs as an alternative)
• 4 tablespoons melted butter

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist
• Chopped green onions for a fresh finish
• A dash of paprika for extra flavor

How to Make Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded Cheddar cheese, diced onion (if using), garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.

Step 3: Add the Hash Browns

• Gently fold in the thawed shredded hash browns, ensuring they’re coated with the creamy mixture. Be careful not to overmix so the potatoes retain their texture.

Step 4: Transfer to the Baking Dish

• Spread the potato mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 5: Make the Crispy Topping

• In a smaller bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until they’re thoroughly coated. If you prefer panko breadcrumbs, prepare them the same way.

Step 6: Add the Topping

• Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole. This step is key to achieving that golden, satisfying crunch!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the casserole set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with green onions, bacon, or a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.

Expert Tips for the Best Funeral Potatoes

• Customize Your Cheese: While Cheddar is common, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Topping: The crispy topping truly elevates this dish. Cornflakes are traditional, but you can also use crushed Ritz crackers or even potato chips for a fun twist.
• Make It Ahead: Funeral Potatoes can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add the topping just before baking.
• Freeze Leftovers: If you miraculously have any leftovers, Funeral Potatoes freeze beautifully. Store them in an airtight container and reheat when ready to enjoy.

Perfect Occasions to Serve Funeral Potatoes

While they may have a traditional association with comforting gatherings, Funeral Potatoes work for virtually any occasion:

• Family Holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)—a comfort food staple!
• Community Potlucks—guaranteed to please any crowd.
• Brunch Buffets—they pair beautifully with eggs, pancakes, and bacon.
• Lazy Weekends—treat yourself to indulgent comfort food any day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken, and omit any bacon add-ins.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute with freshly grated potatoes. Just be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before mixing them into the casserole.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. It provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, with fewer calories.

Can I halve this recipe?

Of course! If you're cooking for a smaller group, halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish.

Bring Comfort to Your Table

Funeral Potatoes are more than just a dish—they’re a warm reminder of the power of comfort food to bring friends and family together. With their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, they’re guaranteed to be the star of any meal or gathering.

Try this recipe for your next holiday or weekend treat, and prepare to make it a permanent part of your comfort food rotation.

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