Funeral Potatoes—a dish with a name that might raise eyebrows but a flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. This beloved comfort food has deep roots in tradition, particularly in the Midwest and among certain cultural communities. Sometimes called "Cheesy Potato Casserole," these creamy, cheesy, crunchy-topped potatoes are often served at gatherings, from Sundays at church to family dinners, and yes, even post-funeral meals. It’s the ultimate dish for feeding a crowd or simply indulging in homey goodness.
Here’s everything you need to know about making this classic dish, plus a few tips to make it your own.
The Recipe for Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients:
For the casserole:
- 1 bag (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or crushed potato chips if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Preheat your oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with a little butter or cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks.Combine the base ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once it’s well-mixed, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and thawed hash browns. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated in the mixture.Spread the mixture
Pour the creamy potato mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so it bakes consistently.Add the crunchy topping
For that signature crispy topping, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this buttery mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If you'd like, swap the cornflakes for crushed potato chips or even panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.Bake to golden perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.Cool and serve
Once baked, allow the dish to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set and makes it easier to dish out.
Tips for Customization
One of the best things about Funeral Potatoes is how adaptable the recipe is. Here are some ideas for making it your own:
- Add protein: Stir in cooked, diced ham or shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a complete meal.
- Veggie boost: Mix in chopped green onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even peas for a pop of flavor and color.
- Cheese swap: Try using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a creamier or spicier twist.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and rice-based cereal instead of cornflakes.
Serving Suggestions
Funeral Potatoes are great as a side dish or the star of your table. Serve them alongside glazed ham, roast chicken, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli.
For a potluck, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish—or even split it into two smaller dishes to share with others. And don’t be surprised when this casserole disappears fast!
A Dish That Brings People Together
Whether it's for a family gathering, a holiday spread, or simply a cozy night at home, Funeral Potatoes carry a sense of warmth and community. This comforting dish reminds us that food truly has the power to bring people together, even in the simplest moments. Try this recipe, customize it to your liking, and watch how it turns any meal into a memorable one! Enjoy!
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