Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Funeral Potatoes: the name might sound a bit somber, but trust me, this creamy, cheesy potato casserole is pure comfort food heaven! I know, I know, the name might raise an eyebrow, but let me assure you, there’s nothing mournful about the taste. This dish is so incredibly delicious, it’s practically guaranteed to bring a smile to your face, no matter the occasion.

While its origins are a bit hazy, Funeral Potatoes are deeply rooted in Mormon culture, particularly in Utah and surrounding states. The dish gained its name because it was often brought to potlucks and gatherings following funerals, offering a comforting and easily shared meal during times of grief. It’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together and provide solace.

But don’t let the name fool you; this casserole is perfect for any gathering, from holiday dinners to casual weeknight meals. People adore Funeral Potatoes for their incredibly satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender potatoes, and the crispy, buttery topping create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups crushed cornflakes
• 1/4 cup melted butter, for topping

Preparing the Potato Mixture

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of our Funeral Potatoes – the creamy, cheesy potato mixture. This is where the magic happens, and it’s surprisingly simple to put together. Trust me, even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you’ll nail this part!

1. Thaw the Hash Browns: First things first, make sure your hash browns are completely thawed. Nobody wants icy potato chunks in their creamy casserole! You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or if you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just be careful not to cook them – you just want them soft enough to mix easily. I usually spread them out on a baking sheet while they thaw to help them thaw evenly.
2. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl – and I mean large, because we’re going to be adding a lot of ingredients – combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it might curdle the sour cream. Gently stir everything together until it’s well combined. You want a nice, even mixture, so don’t be afraid to get in there and really mix it up.
3. Season Generously: Now, let’s add some flavor! Sprinkle in the salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the pepper – it adds a nice little kick that balances out the richness of the other ingredients. Give it another good stir to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Cheese, Please!: Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the potato mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup for topping later. Stir in the cheese until it’s melted and gooey. The cheese is what really brings this casserole together, so make sure it’s well incorporated.

Creating the Cornflake Topping

The crunchy cornflake topping is what sets Funeral Potatoes apart from other potato casseroles. It adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy potato mixture, and it’s super easy to make. This is the part that everyone raves about, so don’t skip it!

1. Crush the Cornflakes: In a medium bowl, crush the cornflakes. You can do this by hand, using a rolling pin, or even pulsing them in a food processor. I prefer to crush them by hand because it gives you more control over the size of the crumbs. You want them to be finely crushed, but not completely pulverized. You want some texture!
2. Combine with Butter: Add the 1/4 cup of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes. Stir until the cornflakes are evenly coated with butter. This is what will give the topping its golden-brown color and crispy texture. Make sure every single cornflake is coated in butter!

Assembling and Baking the Casserole

Now for the grand finale – assembling and baking the Funeral Potatoes. This is where all your hard work comes together, and the delicious aroma starts to fill your kitchen. Get ready for some serious comfort food!

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to serve. I like to use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil.
2. Pour in the Potato Mixture: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it’s the same thickness throughout. This will ensure that it cooks evenly.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato mixture. This will create a nice, cheesy layer on top of the casserole.
4. Add the Cornflake Topping: Sprinkle the buttered cornflake topping evenly over the cheese. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the casserole. This is what will give it that signature crunchy topping.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to make sure the topping doesn’t burn.
6. Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set up a bit.

Tips and Variations

Funeral Potatoes are a classic dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with them! Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize this recipe to your liking:

• Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Add Some Veggies: Mix in some chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free cornflakes to make this dish gluten-free.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Instructions: Funeral potatoes can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking as directed. If freezing after baking, let cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.
• Cream of Celery Soup: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, cream of celery soup can be substituted. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
• Fresh Potatoes: While frozen hash browns are convenient, you can also use freshly shredded potatoes. Be sure to rinse them well to remove excess starch before adding them to the mixture.
• Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder can enhance the savory flavor of the casserole. Add about 1/2 teaspoon to the potato mixture.
• Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder can add another layer of flavor. Use about 1/2 teaspoon.
• Herb Variations: Fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can be added to the potato mixture for a more complex flavor profile.
• Bacon Bits: Adding cooked bacon bits to the potato mixture or sprinkling them on top of the cornflake topping can add a smoky, savory element.
• Bread Crumb Topping: If you don’t have cornflakes, you can use bread crumbs instead. Mix them with melted butter and sprinkle them over the casserole before baking.
• Ritz Cracker Topping: Another alternative to cornflakes is crushed Ritz crackers. They provide a buttery, salty flavor that complements the creamy potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Funeral Potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As a Side Dish: Serve Funeral Potatoes alongside ham, roast beef, or chicken. They’re also a great addition to potlucks and holiday gatherings.
• As a Main Course: Add some cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the potato mixture to make it a more substantial meal.
• With a Salad: Serve Funeral Potatoes with a fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
• For Breakfast or Brunch: Funeral Potatoes are a great addition to a breakfast or brunch spread. Serve them alongside eggs, bacon, and toast.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Funeral Potatoes are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another potato dish; it’s a hug in a casserole dish, a comforting classic that deserves a spot on your table. From the creamy, cheesy base to the crispy, buttery topping, every bite of these Funeral Potatoes is pure bliss. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s more than just food; it’s a taste of home, a connection to tradition, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the incredible depth of flavor, making it accessible for even the most novice cook.

But don’t just take my word for it! The real magic happens when you experience the joy of sharing this dish with loved ones. Imagine the smiles around the table as everyone digs into a warm, comforting serving of these cheesy potatoes. It’s the perfect side dish for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or even just a cozy weeknight dinner.

And the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture. If you’re a fan of bacon (and who isn’t?), crumble some crispy bacon over the top before baking for an extra layer of savory goodness. You could even add some diced ham or shredded chicken to transform it into a complete meal.

Looking for serving suggestions? These Funeral Potatoes pair perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple green salad. They’re also fantastic alongside a hearty soup or chili. And if you happen to have any leftovers (though I highly doubt you will!), they’re delicious reheated the next day.

For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat sour cream and cheese. You can also substitute the butter in the topping with a lighter spread or even a drizzle of olive oil. Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite flavor combination. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would all be delicious.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of these incredible Funeral Potatoes. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to improve and share recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite! Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it!