Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy comfort food classic perfect for any occasion. Made with tender hash browns, a rich sour cream and cheese sauce, and a crispy buttery topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, or even a simple family dinner.

What are Funeral Potatoes?

Ever wondered why a seemingly simple potato casserole has such a somber name? The answer often lies in its historical association with comfort and community during difficult times, making it a staple at church potlucks and funeral receptions. But make no mistake, while “funeral potatoes” might sound melancholic, this dish is anything but! It’s a celebration of creamy, cheesy goodness, designed to bring warmth and joy to any gathering. With more than 10,000 searches per month for “funeral potatoes,” it’s clear this hearty casserole has cemented its place in the annals of comfort food. This recipe delivers on all fronts: a lusciously creamy interior, a rich, savory sauce, and that irresistible buttery, crunchy topping that makes every bite a delight. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or contributing to a large potluck.

Funeral Potatoes Ingredients

The magic of Funeral Potatoes lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. We’re aiming for that classic taste that’s both decadent and deeply satisfying. You can easily find most of these items at your local grocery store.

Main Casserole Components

• 2 pounds frozen hash browns, thawed but still cold (crispy texture is key!)
• 1 cup (about 4 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (adds a tangy punch)
• 1 cup (about 4 ounces) shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for ultimate melty goodness)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion (optional, for a subtle savory note. If you’re not an onion fan, a teaspoon of onion powder can work too!)

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup (the classic binder, use “healthier” versions if preferred)
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (adds depth and creaminess. Cream of celery can be a good substitute if mushrooms aren’t your thing.)
• 1 pint (16 ounces) sour cream (full-fat delivers the best texture and flavor, but light works too)
• 1/4 cup milk (whole milk for richness, or any milk you have on hand)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is always best!)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances the savory notes)

Topping Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed corn flakes cereal (adds a fantastic crunch. Panko breadcrumbs are also a great alternative!)
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted (essential for a golden, crispy topping)

Funeral Potatoes Timing

This recipe comes together quite quickly, especially when you consider the hands-on time. The average potato casserole might take around 1 hour of total time, and Funeral Potatoes fit right into that sweet spot, making it an achievable weeknight or last-minute potluck dish.

Step-by-Step Funeral Potatoes Instructions

Let’s get this comforting casserole into your oven! Follow these easy steps for guaranteed deliciousness.

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, get your oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). Then, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a light greasing. This prevents any sticky situations later on. It’s a small step, but crucial for a clean release!

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and luscious. Season this creamy base with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Taste it – does it need a little more punch? Adjust the seasonings as your heart desires.

Combine Casserole Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show. Add the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the optional chopped yellow onion (or onion powder) to the bowl with the creamy sauce. Gently fold everything together until the hash browns and cheese are evenly coated in the rich sauce. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep some of the hash brown texture intact.

Add the Topping

In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes and the melted butter. Stir until the corn flakes are well coated. This buttery coating is what will give your Funeral Potatoes that irresistible golden crunch.

Bake to Perfection

Pour the hash brown mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the buttery corn flake mixture evenly over the top. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is a beautiful golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells absolutely divine!

Rest and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let the Funeral Potatoes rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the casserole to set up a bit, making it easier to serve and ensuring it holds its creamy, cheesy form. Serve hot and watch it disappear!

Funeral Potatoes Nutritional Information

Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients used (e.g., fat content of sour cream, type of condensed soups). Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fat: 30-40g (Saturated Fat: 15-20g)
• Carbohydrates: 25-35g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sodium: 900-1200mg (can be high due to condensed soups and cheese)

Healthier Alternatives for Funeral Potatoes

Want to lighten up this classic comfort food without sacrificing all the flavor? Here are a few swaps:

• Low-Fat Dairy: Use light sour cream and low-fat condensed soups.
• Reduced Sodium: Opt for reduced-sodium versions of condensed soups and be mindful of added salt.
• Greek Yogurt: For an extra protein boost and tang, you can substitute some of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
• Veggies: Stir in finely chopped steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or mushrooms for added nutrients and fiber.
• Healthier Topping: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or a smaller amount of butter with panko for a lighter crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic side dish for:

• Holiday Meals: A perfect partner for roast turkey, ham, or prime rib.
• BBQ’s and Potlucks: Always a hit alongside grilled meats and other picnic fare.
• Weeknight Dinners: Serve with a simple salad and grilled chicken or pork chops for a complete meal.
• Breakfast/Brunch: Yes, they can even work for a hearty brunch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Funeral Potatoes

To ensure your Funeral Potatoes turn out perfectly:

• Using Frozen Hash Browns that are too Thawed: They can become watery. Keep them cold until you mix them in.
• Overmixing: This can lead to a mushy texture. Gently fold ingredients together.
• Undercooking: Make sure the casserole is heated through and bubbly for food safety and optimal flavor.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Letting it sit allows it to set up, preventing a runny mess.

Storing and Reheating Funeral Potatoes

To Store: Let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

To Reheat: For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can cover it with foil initially to prevent the topping from burning, then uncover for the last few minutes to re-crisp. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the topping won’t be as crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes

Print Recipe

Funeral Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy comfort food classic perfect for any occasion. Made with tender hash browns, a rich sour cream and cheese sauce, and a crispy buttery topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, or even a simple family dinner.

• Author: Chef Sara

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1(32-ounce) bag frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
• 1 cupsour cream
• 1(10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
• 2 cupsshredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cupunsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cupscornflake cereal, crushed (or panko breadcrumbs)
• 1 tsponion powder
• 1/2 tspgarlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the frozen hash browns to the bowl and gently stir until evenly coated.
4. Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra crunch, substitute crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips for the cornflakes.
Add cooked, diced chicken or ham for a more filling casserole.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
If baking from frozen, cover with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, removing the foil halfway through baking.