If you’re looking for a classic comfort food recipe that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a golden, crispy topping, look no further than Funeral Potatoes. This dish has earned its name by being a popular casserole served at gatherings, potlucks, and yes, funerals. But don’t let the name fool you—this dish is far from somber. It’s a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and nostalgia.
Perfect for busy weeknights, holiday dinners, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, crowd-pleasing side dish, Funeral Potatoes are a breeze to make and a joy to eat. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a lifesaver when you need something easy yet impressive. Here’s why:
- Minimal Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have it ready for the oven in no time.
- Affordable Ingredients: Most of these pantry staples are budget-friendly and readily available.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy cornflake topping make this dish irresistible to kids and adults alike.
- Versatile Side Dish: Funeral Potatoes pair well with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
Let’s dive into the details of this heavenly casserole!
Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:
- 3/4 cup butter (divided)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 pounds diced hash browns (thawed and cubed)
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal (lightly crushed)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you get started, gather the following kitchen tools:
- 9×13-inch glass baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot while you prepare the casserole.
- Cook the Onions: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent. This step adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Mix the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked onions, thawed hash browns, 1/2 cup of melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the crushed corn flakes and sauté, stirring constantly, until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Spread the crispy cornflake topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Tricks
- Shortcut Option: Use pre-diced frozen onions to save time.
- Make It Your Own: Add cooked bacon, diced ham, or green chilies for extra flavor.
- Cheese Swap: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free cream of chicken soup and use gluten-free cereal for the topping.
Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and enjoy them later:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Warm the casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. For single portions, the microwave works well.
Food and Drink Pairings
Funeral Potatoes shine as a side dish and pair beautifully with these options:
- Main Courses: Roast beef, baked chicken, glazed ham, or BBQ ribs.
- Veggie Sides: A simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans.
- Drinks: Complement the richness with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or keep it kid-friendly with iced tea or lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (without the cornflake topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Yes, you can. Peel and dice fresh potatoes, then boil them until fork-tender before using.
What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?
Panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even potato chips work as excellent substitutes.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
To make it vegetarian, replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or a plant-based alternative.
A Recipe Worth Sharing
Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, holiday dinner, or potluck, Funeral Potatoes will steal the show with their rich, cheesy flavor and crunchy topping. This is comfort food at its finest, and it’s sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. For more delicious recipes and tips, subscribe to my blog and never miss a post.
Happy cooking! 🧡