If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Funeral Potatoes Recipe. It’s that golden, cheesy casserole bursting with crispy cornflake topping and tender shredded potatoes, a staple that brings smiles to family tables everywhere. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a casual Sunday dinner, this dish wraps savory richness with just the right blend of creamy and crunchy textures, making every bite simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Funeral Potatoes Recipe plays a simple but crucial role, contributing layers of flavor, creaminess, and texture that combine into a perfect harmony. From the smooth sour cream to the crispy cornflakes on top, every element ensures this dish is both satisfying and delicious.
- 6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed: The hearty base that’s tender inside and holds all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds rich, creamy flavor and depth with minimum fuss.
- 1 cup sour cream: Brings tangy creaminess that balances the cheesy goodness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and moisture, making the casserole luscious.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it’s the star of the comforting cheesy taste.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional): Adds a subtle bite and aromatic freshness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the ingredients.
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed: The secret to the casserole’s famous crispy, golden topping.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping): Helps those cornflakes brown to perfection and adds buttery crunch.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish ensures your cheesy casserole won’t stick, making serving and cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and creamy. This mixture is the flavorful glue that binds the potatoes and cheese.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Onion
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped onion if you’re using it. The cheese melts into the dish, while onion adds a nice subtle layer of flavor, rounding out the savory profile.
Step 4: Fold in the Potatoes
Gently fold the thawed hash brown potatoes into your creamy mixture. Take care to coat the potatoes evenly without mashing them, so each bite stays tender with texture.
Step 5: Spread in Baking Dish
Transfer this luscious potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even layer that bakes evenly and looks so inviting.
Step 6: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
Combine the crushed cornflakes with melted butter in a small bowl. This buttery mixture will bake into a perfectly crispy, golden crust that contrasts gorgeously with the creamy potatoes below.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the cornflake topping evenly over the casserole and bake it for 40 to 45 minutes. What you’re looking for is bubbly filling and that irresistible golden crunchy top — a true sign of a flawless Funeral Potatoes Recipe.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This rest helps it set slightly so you can dish out perfect squares that hold together nicely.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your Funeral Potatoes Recipe to the next level. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens the richness of the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this casserole is creamy and hearty, pairing it with light, crisp sides works wonderfully. Think vibrant green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even some roasted Brussels sprouts for contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or family? Serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra crushed cornflakes right before baking for personalized casseroles. Alternatively, transform leftovers into loaded potato cakes by frying spoonfuls until golden crispy on both sides!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Funeral Potatoes Recipe keeps very well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture without losing that signature crispy topping’s charm.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen—just add some extra baking time until bubbly and golden.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. For extra crispiness, uncover the last 5 minutes so the top regains that perfect crunch.
FAQs
Can I use homemade hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh potatoes, shred them and dry thoroughly with a towel to avoid excess moisture. The texture might be a bit different but will still result in a delicious casserole.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Funeral Potatoes Recipe?
Yes! Simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to keep the creamy texture without meat ingredients. It’s just as tasty and comforting.
Why do cornflakes make the topping so crunchy?
Cornflakes crisp up amazingly when baked with butter, forming that golden, crumbly crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy potato base—it’s the hallmark crunch you’re aiming for.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
While traditional Funeral Potatoes rely heavily on dairy, you can swap sour cream for a dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based butter substitute. The texture may vary but it still makes a lovely casserole.
How can I add more flavor to this classic recipe?
Try mixing in diced cooked bacon, chopped green onions, or a pinch of smoked paprika for smoky depth. These small tweaks can personalize the dish without losing its comforting identity.
Final Thoughts
This Funeral Potatoes Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like coming home. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with golden crunch, it never fails to bring warmth and delight to any table. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and experience firsthand just how irresistible this casserole can be. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Funeral Potatoes is a comforting and creamy casserole featuring shredded hash brown potatoes baked in a savory mixture of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and sharp cheddar cheese. Topped with a buttery, crispy cornflake crust, this classic dish is perfect for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and uniform in texture.
- Add Cheese and Onion: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped onion (if using) to the sauce mixture, blending evenly to infuse flavor throughout.
- Combine with Potatoes: Gently fold in the thawed shredded hash brown potatoes, making sure they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture without breaking the potatoes apart.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the cornflakes are well coated, which will create a crispy topping.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking to let it set for easier serving and enhanced flavors.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
- You can add cooked, diced ham or cooked bacon for extra protein and flavor.
- Onion is optional but adds a nice savory depth to the casserole.
- Make sure to fully thaw and drain any excess moisture from the hash browns to avoid a soggy casserole.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just increase the baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
