Funeral Potatoes: the name might not sound appetizing, but trust me, this creamy, cheesy potato casserole is pure comfort food magic! Have you ever tasted a dish so unexpectedly delicious that you immediately needed the recipe? That’s exactly how I felt the first time I encountered this intriguing side dish. It’s a staple at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and, yes, even funerals, primarily in the Intermountain West region of the United States.

While the origins are somewhat debated, many believe Funeral Potatoes gained popularity due to their ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd a welcome attribute during times of mourning. The dish is a testament to resourcefulness, transforming simple ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and cream of mushroom soup into something truly special. But beyond its practicality, the real reason people adore this casserole is the taste. The creamy, cheesy filling, combined with the slightly crunchy topping, creates a delightful textural contrast that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the ultimate comfort food, offering a warm, satisfying embrace with every bite. So, let’s dive into this classic recipe and discover why Funeral Potatoes are a must-have for any occasion!

Ingredients:

30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups crushed cornflakes
1/4 cup melted butter

Preparing the Potato Mixture

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prepare the base of our Funeral Potatoes. This is where all the creamy, cheesy goodness begins. Don’t worry if your hash browns are still a little icy; they’ll thaw completely as we mix everything together. Just make sure they’re not rock solid!

Thaw the Hash Browns: Ensure your 30 ounces of frozen shredded hash browns are completely thawed. You can let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours, or if you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until they’re thawed but not cooked. Drain any excess liquid from the hash browns after thawing. This is crucial to prevent the potatoes from becoming soggy.
Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, 1 can (10.75 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Make sure everything is well incorporated. I like to use a large spoon or spatula for this, ensuring that the soup and sour cream are evenly distributed throughout the potatoes.
Season Generously: Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the mixture. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking! Some people prefer a little more pepper, while others might add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Incorporate the Cheese: Now for the best part the cheese! Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the potato mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup for topping later. Gently fold the cheese into the potatoes until it’s evenly distributed. You want cheesy goodness in every bite!

Preparing the Cornflake Topping

The cornflake topping is what gives Funeral Potatoes that delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potato base. It’s super easy to make, and it adds so much to the overall texture of the dish.

Crush the Cornflakes: In a separate bowl, crush 2 cups of cornflakes. You can do this by hand, using a rolling pin, or even pulsing them in a food processor. I prefer to crush them by hand, as it gives you more control over the size of the crumbs. You want them to be finely crushed, but not completely pulverized.
Combine with Melted Butter: Add 1/4 cup of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes and mix well. Make sure all the cornflakes are coated with butter. This will help them brown nicely in the oven and create that irresistible crispy topping.

Assembling and Baking

Now that we’ve prepared the potato mixture and the cornflake topping, it’s time to assemble everything and bake it to golden perfection! This is the final stretch, and the aroma that will fill your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly.

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking Funeral Potatoes, as it allows them to cook evenly without burning the topping.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the dish and make it easier to serve them later. You can use butter, cooking spray, or even a little bit of oil to grease the dish.
Pour in the Potato Mixture: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Make sure the surface is smooth so that the cornflake topping will distribute evenly.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato mixture. This will create a lovely layer of melted cheese on top of the potatoes.
Add the Cornflake Topping: Sprinkle the buttered cornflake topping evenly over the cheese layer. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the potatoes with the topping.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the potatoes are bubbly. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is nicely browned and the potatoes are heated through.
Let it Rest: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the potatoes to set slightly and make them easier to serve.

Tips and Variations

Funeral Potatoes are a classic comfort food, but there are plenty of ways to customize them to your liking. Here are a few tips and variations to try:

Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients to the potato mixture, such as diced ham, bacon bits, or sautéed onions. These additions can add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Each type of cheese will add its own unique flavor to the potatoes.
Soup Substitutions: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. These substitutions will slightly alter the flavor of the dish, but they can still be delicious.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a little bit of heat.
Make it Ahead: You can assemble the Funeral Potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to add the cornflake topping right before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
Freezing: Funeral Potatoes can also be frozen for later use. Assemble the dish, but don’t add the cornflake topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then add the cornflake topping and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

Funeral Potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Side Dish: Serve Funeral Potatoes as a side dish with ham, roast beef, or chicken. They’re also a great addition to potlucks and holiday gatherings.
Main Course: Add some protein, such as diced ham or shredded chicken, to the potato mixture and serve it as a main course.
Breakfast: Serve Funeral Potatoes as part of a breakfast or brunch spread. They pair well with eggs, bacon, and sausage.
Toppings: Garnish Funeral Potatoes with chopped green onions, sour cream, or a sprinkle of paprika.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

Potatoes are too dry: If your potatoes are too dry, add a little bit more sour cream or melted butter to the mixture.
Potatoes are too soggy: If your potatoes are too soggy, make sure you drain any excess liquid from the hash browns after thawing. You can also add a little bit of flour or cornstarch to the mixture to help absorb the excess moisture.
Topping is not browning: If your cornflake topping is not browning, try broiling it for a minute or two at the end of the baking time. Just be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Potatoes are not cooking evenly: If your potatoes are not cooking evenly, try covering the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time. This will help to trap the heat and ensure that the potatoes cook evenly.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
Fat: Approximately 20-30 grams per serving
Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30 grams per serving
Protein: Approximately 5-1

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! I truly believe this recipe for Funeral Potatoes is a must-try, and heres why: its the ultimate comfort food, incredibly easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy potato base combined with the crispy, buttery topping is a symphony of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). It’s the perfect dish to bring to a potluck, serve at a holiday gathering, or simply enjoy on a cozy night in.

But beyond its deliciousness, this recipe is special because it’s adaptable. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Elevate the Cheese: While cheddar is classic, try using a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan for a more sophisticated flavor profile. A touch of smoked Gouda can also add a wonderful depth.
* Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a subtle kick. You could even incorporate some finely chopped jalapeños for a bolder flavor.
* Protein Power: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon, ham, or even shredded chicken to the potato mixture. This transforms it into a complete meal.
* Veggie Boost: Sneak in some finely chopped vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach for added nutrients. Just be sure to cook them slightly beforehand to prevent them from becoming soggy.
* Topping Tweaks: While crushed cornflakes are the traditional topping, you can experiment with other options like crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, or even a streusel topping made with flour, butter, and brown sugar.
* Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply assemble it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add the topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
* Serving Sides: Funeral Potatoes are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad. They are especially good with ham!
* Holiday Staple: This dish is a holiday staple for many families, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is always a hit. It’s the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

Ive made this recipe countless times, and it always disappears quickly. Its a guaranteed winner, and Im confident that you and your loved ones will enjoy it just as much as we do.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Funeral Potatoes! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it and make it your own family favorite.

Im so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, Id love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your stories. Happy cooking!
Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Creamy, cheesy Funeral Potatoes with a crispy cornflake topping – the ultimate comfort food side dish!

Prep Time15 minutes

Cook Time30-40 minutes

Total Time55 minutes

Category: Appetizer

Yield: 12 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
1. Thaw the Hash Browns: Ensure your 30 ounces of frozen shredded hash browns are completely thawed. Drain any excess liquid.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, 1 can (10.75 ounces) of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix well.
3. Season Generously: Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the mixture. Adjust to taste.
4. Incorporate the Cheese: Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the potato mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup for topping later. Gently fold in the cheese.
5. Crush the Cornflakes: In a separate bowl, crush 2 cups of cornflakes.
6. Combine with Melted Butter: Add 1/4 cup of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes and mix well.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Pour in the Potato Mixture: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
10. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato mixture.
11. Add the Cornflake Topping: Sprinkle the buttered cornflake topping evenly over the cheese layer.
12. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the potatoes are bubbly.
13. Let it Rest: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients to the potato mixture, such as diced ham, bacon bits, or sautéed onions.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Soup Substitutions: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a little bit of heat.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the Funeral Potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to add the cornflake topping right before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Freezing: Funeral Potatoes can also be frozen for later use. Assemble the dish, but don’t add the cornflake topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then add the cornflake topping and bake as directed.
- Potatoes are too dry: If your potatoes are too dry, add a little bit more sour cream or melted butter to the mixture.
- Potatoes are too soggy: If your potatoes are too soggy, make sure you drain any excess liquid from the hash browns after thawing. You can also add a little bit of flour or cornstarch to the mixture to help absorb the excess moisture.
- Topping is not browning: If your cornflake topping is not browning, try broiling it for a minute or two at the end of the baking time. Just be sure to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
- Potatoes are not cooking evenly: If your potatoes are not cooking evenly, try covering the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking time. This will help to trap the heat and ensure that the potatoes cook evenly.

Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe