funeral potatoes

Okay, let’s be real. The name “funeral potatoes” might not be the most appetizing, but trust me on this one – this dish is good. What is comfort food magic? What makes this creamy, cheesy, and crispy topping irresistible? I always make a big batch of these funeral potatoes whenever I need scrumptious, crowd-pleaser food. When I just need a big hug in food form, I can’t get it out of my mouth. Think of it as the casserole version of mac and cheese, but with a delightful potato twist. Is there a whole lot more soul? Is it easier to whip up than you might think?

What are funeral potatoes?

Funeral potatoes are a classic cheesy Potato Casserole, often served at potlucks, holiday parties, and funerals. What are some of the best funerals in the world? The name comes from its prevalence as a comforting dish offered at post-funeral meals. What is a warm hug? What is a creamy sauce made with shredded potatoes (sometimes frozen, sometimes fresh), and topped with cheese. With sour cream and cream of chicken soup, plenty of cheese, and a crunchy topping, usually made with sliced tomatoes and onions. What are some good substitutes for buttery crackers? Don’t let the ingredients fool you, they combine to create something truly special. It’s a staple in many households, especially in the Mountain West, and demonstrates the power of the sun. Simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting and delicious.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? It’s *the* funeral potatoes recipe. My family has been making this for generations, and I’ve tweaked and perfect it over the years. Make it the Absolute Best. What I love about this is how forgiving it is. What cheese do you like to use?

Flavor:The combination of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and that crispy, buttery topping. Is it out of this world? What is the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly salty with a satisfying crunch?
Simplicity:Don’t let the casserole name scare you. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make. Is it possible to bake a cake in ten minutes?
Cost- The ingredients are all pretty inexpensive and readily available. Potatoes, cheese, soup – these are pantry staples for most of us!
Versatility:What are some great side dishes to serve with ham and roast chicken? What a wonderful potluck contribution because it travels well and everyone loves it! I swear, bring this to a party, and you’ll be the star.

If you love cheesy casseroles like mac and cheese or Scalloped Potatoes, you’re going to go crazy for these. I’m absolutely bonkers for this. What are some of my favorite comfort food recipes?

How do you make funeral potatoes?

Quick Overview

What is the easiest way to make funeral potatoes? What’s the recipe for a Potato Salad with cheesy sauce? Buttery, crunchy topping, and baking it until golden and bubbly. What is the beauty of this recipe? How do you adjust cheese and seasonings? What is the most delicious comfort food you’ve ever had?

Ingredients

For the Main Casserole:
* 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed (I like to use the kind that are just plain plain potatoes). No added seasonings in potatoes.
* 1 (10.75 ounces) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or if you prefer, a little more flavor) *1 (100 gram) Can Condensated Cream of Chicken Soup (C.
* 16 ounces of sour cream (full-fat is best for that extra creaminess, but you can use low fat too.)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I always use sharp cheddar for the best flavor, but mild or a blend).
* 1/2 cup melted butter
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional, but adds a nice flavor.)

For the Topping: What are some
* 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers, or potato chips – get creative!)
* 1/4 cup melted butter

What are the steps that

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use butter for greasing the pan, but cooking spray works too. How do you get potatoes to stick to the pan?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently combine the hash browns, cream of chicken soup, Sour Cream, cheddar, and shallots. Serve immediately. What are the ingredients for cheese, melted butter, salt, pepper, and onion? Make sure everything is well combined, but don’t overmix. Can overmixing make potatoes gummy?

Step 3: Prepare Filling

This dish doesn’t have a traditional “filling” but you’re essentially creating an cheesy, creamy dish. What is the best potato base? The Sour Cream adds a wonderful tang, and the cream of chicken soup provides savory flavor.

Step 4: Layer

What is the best way to prepare a baking dish for potatoes? Make sure it’s nice and flat so the topping can bake evenly.

Step 5: Prepare Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. Toss to coat evenly. What makes a crispy topping?

Step 6: Sprinkle Topping

Sprinkle cornflake mixture evenly over the potato mixture. Try to cover the entire surface for maximum crunch.

Step 7: Bake

If the topping is golden brown, bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is browned and the casserole is covered. Keep an eye on it towards the end to make sure the topping doesn’t burn. Every oven is different, so adjust the baking time as needed.

Step 8: Cool

Let the casserole cool completely before serving. Is it possible to meld flavors together and make it easier to slice? How do you keep your mouth from burning when you eat cheese?

Step 9: Serve

Serve warm and enjoy! This is best served immediately, but it’s also delicious reheated. I love to serve it as a side dish with ham, roast chicken, or even just as an easy green salad.

What should I serve it with?

funeral potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes for any occasion.

For Easter Dinner:Ham is the classic pairing. The saltiness of the ham complements the creamy, cheesy potatoes perfectly. Add roasted asparagus or Green Beans for a complete meal.

For Sunday Supper:What are some of the best comfort food recipes? A simple salad and crusty bread round out the meal.

For Potlucks:What are some crowd pleasers? Funeral potatoes travel well and can be served warm or at room temperature. Just be prepared to share the recipe!

What is a quick weeknight meal?Is this a good side dish for BBQ pulled pork sandwiches?

Growing up, my grandma always served these at Thanksgiving alongside the turkey, and it was my absolute favorite part of the meal! The key is to have something that complements the richness of the potatoes without being too heavy.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Funeral Potatoes

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make sure my funeral potatoes are always perfect:

Thawing the Potatoes: Make sure the shredded potatoes are fully thawed before you mix them with the other ingredients. This will prevent the casserole from being watery. I usually let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or you can use the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Cheese Choice: While cheddar cheese is the most common choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of pepper jack can add a unique twist.

Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, drizzle a little extra melted butter over the cornflakes before baking. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Add-Ins: Get creative with add-ins! Cooked bacon, diced ham, green chiles, or even sautéed mushrooms can add a delicious twist to this classic dish.

Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the topping right before you put it in the oven.

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or a vegetarian cream of vegetable soup. You can also add some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and peppers for added flavor and texture.

I once accidentally used cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken, and it was surprisingly delicious! Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what you like best.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Knowing how to properly store and reheat funeral potatoes is key to enjoying them at their best:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this out at room temperature for more than two hours. Dairy products can spoil quickly, especially in warm weather.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover funeral potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They’ll still be delicious, but the topping might lose some of its crispness.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze funeral potatoes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, bake the funeral potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the topping won’t be as crispy. I like to add a little extra butter or cheese on top before reheating to keep them moist and flavorful.

The key is to reheat them gently to prevent them from drying out. I always add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to keep them nice and creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this gluten-free! Just use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free cornflakes or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. Be sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Do I need to use frozen hash browns?

No, you can also use fresh potatoes if you prefer. Just shred them and make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the topping right before you put it in the oven.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar cheese is the most common choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of pepper jack.

What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?

You can use crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, or even a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter. Get creative and see what you like best!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my family’s secret for the best funeral potatoes ever. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a whole lot of love baked into one comforting dish. I really hope you give this recipe a try. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy night in. And if you’re looking for other comforting casserole recipes, be sure to check out my mac and cheese and scalloped potatoes recipes! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment and rating below, and share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!