If you are craving a dish that wraps you in warmth and feels like a cozy kitchen hug, look no further than this classic Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite Recipe. This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser with golden, crunchy cornflake topping layered over a rich, cheesy, and creamy blend of hash browns, sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you want to indulge in simple, homey goodness. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple that reminds you why comfort food is so special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, well-loved ingredients that come together easily but deliver incredible depth of flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role in creating that rich, creamy, and crunchy experience that makes Funeral Potatoes so irresistible.
- Frozen hash brown potatoes: The hearty base that brings satisfying texture and mild flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess that keeps the casserole moist and luscious.
- Cream of chicken soup: Provides rich, savory undertones and silky smoothness.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Delivers bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth cheesiness.
- Chopped onion (optional): Offers subtle sweetness and a hint of crunch if you like a little extra texture.
- Garlic powder: Gives a gentle garlicky warmth to balance the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every other ingredient.
- Melted butter: Key for creating that golden crust and adding buttery richness.
- Crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers: The secret to a perfectly crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly heated when you’re ready to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will slide right out when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded sharp cheddar, chopped onion if you’re using it, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture is the heart of your casserole, combining savory and tangy flavors that complement the potatoes perfectly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Hash Browns
Gently fold the thawed hash browns into the creamy mixture until all the potatoes are evenly coated. This step is crucial for balance—ensuring every bite is full of cheesy, smooth goodness married with tender potatoes.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Pour your luscious potato and cheese mix into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This creates a uniform layer that will cook consistently, leading to an even melt and perfect texture throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This topping adds a delightful crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior, so don’t skip it!
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the top of your casserole. This step guarantees a golden, crispy finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop the dish into your oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the casserole is bubbly all over. This wait is well worth it, as baking melds the flavors and texture into pure, comforting magic.
Step 8: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps it set, making it easier to serve generous, neat portions while letting the flavors deepen.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a wonderful way to add a fresh or colorful touch. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or parsley over the top after baking for a pop of color and mild onion flavor. You could also add a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra creaminess and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Funeral Potatoes pair beautifully with protein-rich mains such as roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled pork chops. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans work well on the side to balance the richness with their fresh, light textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish family-style, inviting everyone to dig in. For a special touch, portion servings into small ramekins for individual comfort casserole servings that look as fun as they taste. You can also layer the mix in individual muffin tins for mini handheld versions perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Funeral Potatoes can be cooled to room temperature and then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers a real treat!
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and covering tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes helps crisp the topping again, bringing back that irresistible crunch with each comforting bite.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh potatoes can be used, frozen hash browns are recommended for convenience and consistent texture. If using fresh, shred and rinse the potatoes well, then squeeze out excess moisture for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup or another vegetarian-friendly cream soup, and you have a delicious meat-free version that maintains all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Sharp cheddar is traditional and adds great flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend. Just be sure to use a good melting cheese for that creamy texture.
What if I don’t have cornflakes or crackers for the topping?
No worries! You can substitute with breadcrumbs, crushed fried onions, or even crushed pretzels for a different but tasty crunchy topping.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives, and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a suitable dairy-free cream soup or homemade sauce. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite Recipe is a heartfelt classic that brings people together with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight, it promises to fill your home with warmth and happy memories. Trust me, once you make this dish, it will quickly become one of your family favorites—and you’ll never want to reach for another side dish again!
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Funeral Potatoes: Creamy, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Funeral Potatoes is a warm, creamy, and cheesy casserole that combines tender hash browns with a savory mixture of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and sharp cheddar cheese. Topped with a buttery, crunchy cornflake topping, this comfort food classic is perfect for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix base ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Add hash browns: Fold in the thawed hash brown potatoes gently until they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Spread in baking dish: Transfer and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter to create a crunchy topping.
- Add topping: Sprinkle the buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling hot.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor.
- Adding chopped onions is optional but enhances flavor and texture.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake it just before serving.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure cornflakes or crackers used for topping are gluten-free.
