If you have ever enjoyed a hearty, cheesy, and utterly comforting casserole, then you are in for a treat with this Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe. This beloved American classic brings together a rich blend of tender hash browns, melted cheddar, and a crispy, buttery cornflake topping that guarantees both creamy textures and irresistible crunch. Whether you’re serving a crowd or simply craving some cozy comfort food, this dish effortlessly combines simple ingredients into a soulful celebration of flavor and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures that make Funeral Potatoes so loved. From the tangy sour cream to the crispy cornflake topping, every element adds its own magic to the dish.
- Frozen shredded hash browns: Thawed and ready to soak up all the creamy goodness, they provide the hearty base.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and a silky, savory backdrop to the potatoes.
- Sour cream: Gives a tangy creaminess that brightens and balances the cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy comfort we all crave.
- Chopped yellow onion: Offers a mild bite and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- Garlic powder: A subtle hint of garlic that amplifies the savory notes.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring the whole casserole to life.
- Cornflakes, crushed: The secret to that golden, crunchy topping everyone loves.
- Melted butter: Binds the cornflakes to the casserole while adding rich, buttery flavor.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the cheesy potatoes won’t stick and will bake evenly with a lovely golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the thawed shredded hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients well until everything is blended into a creamy, cheesy mixture. This step is key to ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture Evenly
Pour the cheesy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Even spreading ensures the casserole cooks uniformly and every spoonful will have that perfect creamy texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Toss them together until every little flake is coated with buttery goodness. Then sprinkle this over your casserole, creating that signature crispy top layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and the cornflakes turn a beautiful golden brown. Once done, let it cool for about 5 to 10 minutes to set and make it easier to serve. This wait time is absolutely worth it for the perfect texture.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe
Garnishes
Although the casserole speaks for itself, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives on top adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness, perfect for balancing the richness.
Side Dishes
This cheesy potato dish pairs wonderfully with roasted or steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even some savory protein like ham or turkey. Its creamy, indulgent nature makes it a fantastic companion to lighter, fresher side options.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist on presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheese and a pinch of bacon bits or green onions. This makes the dish feel special and perfect for gatherings or potlucks where presentation counts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 3-4 days, making for easy, comforting meals later in the week.
Freezing
This Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole but hold off on baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or bake leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. Cover with foil to avoid over-browning, removing it at the end for a restored crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup to keep all the creamy flavor without the meat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the cheesy goodness meat-free.
Is there a way to make these potatoes gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free cornflakes or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping, and be sure to check that the condensed soup you choose is gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious casserole safely.
Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely. Chopped green chilies, cooked broccoli florets, or even diced bell peppers make great extras for added nutrients and flavor. Just mix them in with the potato mixture before baking.
What is the origin of funeral potatoes?
Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe originated in the American West, especially among Mormon communities, where it became a comforting dish served at gatherings after funerals. It’s now a beloved comfort food across many households.
How can I make the dish more crispy on top?
For extra crispiness, add an additional layer of crushed cornflakes or sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking. You can also broil it for the last few minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the comforting warmth and gooey cheesiness of this Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe. It’s a dish that brings people together with every bite, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or those moments when you just need a little extra comfort. I hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy every scrumptious, cheesy spoonful as much as I do!
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Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Funeral Potatoes, also known as Cheesy Potatoes, is a comforting American side dish made with shredded hash browns baked in a creamy mixture of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheddar cheese, topped with a buttery crushed cornflake crust. This casserole is perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings, offering a warm, cheesy, and crispy experience with every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed shredded hash browns, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped yellow onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a creamy mixture.
- Layer Mixture: Spread the combined potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing to an even layer for uniform cooking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until all cornflakes are well coated.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttered cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato casserole to create a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the dish uncovered into the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
- Enhance flavor by adding cooked bacon, diced ham, or green chilies to the mixture before baking.
- This dish is great for potlucks, family gatherings, or any holiday meal.
