Best Funeral Potatoes Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Funeral Potatoes, also known as Cheesy Potatoes, have long been a go-to comfort food for many occasions, from holiday dinners to family gatherings. But what makes them stand out? It’s the blend of creamy, cheesy goodness paired with a crunchy, buttery topping that creates a dish everyone loves. Whether you’re serving a large crowd or just want a quick, satisfying side dish, Funeral Potatoes deliver every time.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Funeral Potatoes recipe and provide you with expert tips, substitutions, and ways to make this dish even more delicious. We’ll also highlight some key points where your standard recipe might fall short and how you can make your version stand out.

Why Are They Called Funeral Potatoes?

This unique name originated from the dish’s frequent presence at funeral luncheons, where it was served as an easy, hearty side dish for large groups of people. However, despite its somber origin, Funeral Potatoes have become a popular choice for other gatherings such as potlucks, family holidays, and Sunday dinners. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as versatile as it is comforting.

What Makes Funeral Potatoes So Popular?

Here are some reasons why this dish has gained such popularity:

Incredibly Flavorful
The rich combination of sour cream, cheese, and butter creates a creamy base, while the cornflake topping adds a delightful crunch.

Customizable
Funeral Potatoes are easily adaptable. Whether you prefer to add ham, bacon, or extra seasonings, this recipe can be tailored to fit your tastes.

Make-Ahead Friendly
You can prepare this dish in advance, saving time on the big day. Whether refrigerated or frozen, Funeral Potatoes hold up well and only get better with time.

Perfect for Large Groups
This is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to multiply the recipe to feed a larger group, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday feasts, or family gatherings.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Funeral Potatoes

To make sure your Funeral Potatoes come out perfect, here are the key ingredients that you’ll need:

Frozen Hash Browns
Frozen hash browns or diced potatoes form the base of the dish, offering convenience and consistency in texture. While fresh potatoes can be used as a substitute, frozen hash browns save time without sacrificing taste.

Sour Cream
Sour cream adds richness and a slight tanginess to balance out the cheesy flavors. Full-fat sour cream is recommended, though you can opt for reduced-fat versions or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Cream of Chicken Soup
This classic ingredient creates a creamy base and enhances the dish’s comforting texture. While some people opt for cream of mushroom or celery soup, cream of chicken is the most traditional and widely used.

Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar is the best cheese for this dish because it melts well and adds a robust, tangy flavor. However, you can mix different cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.

Cornflakes
The crispy, buttery cornflake topping is what sets Funeral Potatoes apart from other casseroles. It adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Butter
Butter is used both inside the casserole and for the topping, ensuring richness in every bite. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness of the dish.

How to Make the Best Funeral Potatoes: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know why this dish is so beloved and what key ingredients are required, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making the best Funeral Potatoes. Follow these clear instructions to create a perfect, cheesy, and crispy casserole every time.

Ingredients

Here’s a recap of everything you’ll need for your perfect batch of Funeral Potatoes:

• 1 (32-ounce) bag of frozen diced hash browns
• 2 cups sour cream (preferably full-fat)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorites)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 2–3 cups corn flakes (or a suitable alternative)
• Freshly ground black pepper (optional, for seasoning)
• Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set it aside. This dish will serve as the base for your casserole.

2. Thaw and Drain Hash Browns
   Place the frozen hash browns in a colander and allow them to thaw completely. Once thawed, press them gently to remove any excess water. This will help prevent your casserole from being too watery and ensure the potatoes crisp up nicely in the oven.

3. Make the Creamy Mixture
   In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and ½ cup melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy base for your potatoes.

4. Add Cheese and Seasonings
   Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and onion powder (if using). Mix until the cheese is well incorporated into the creamy base. You can add freshly ground black pepper here if desired, which will bring a little extra zing to the dish.

5. Combine Potatoes with the Mixture
   Add the thawed hash browns to the creamy mixture and stir to ensure the potatoes are well-coated. Once combined, transfer the entire mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.

6. Prepare the Cornflake Topping
   In a separate bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the crushed cornflakes and the remaining ¼ cup melted butter. Shake or stir until the cornflakes are well coated with the butter. This step ensures that the topping becomes perfectly crispy while baking.

7. Top the Potatoes
   Sprinkle the buttered cornflakes evenly over the top of the potato mixture. The crunchy topping will add the perfect contrast to the creamy, cheesy interior.

8. Bake to Perfection
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 42–46 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The casserole should be bubbling around the edges when done. If you like your topping extra crispy, you can broil it for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.

9. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired, for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about Funeral Potatoes is that you can easily make them ahead of time, which makes them perfect for busy holidays or large gatherings. Here’s how to prepare them in advance:

Make-Ahead Instructions
Prepare the casserole as directed, but skip adding the cornflake topping. Instead, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, add the cornflake topping and bake as directed.

Freezing Instructions
To freeze Funeral Potatoes, prepare the casserole as directed, but again, leave off the cornflakes. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then add the cornflake topping and bake as directed.

Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or place the whole dish back in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Common Substitutions and Variations

While the classic Funeral Potatoes recipe is beloved by many, you might want to try some variations to suit your preferences. Here are some creative ideas:

Add Protein
For a heartier dish, you can add diced ham, crumbled bacon, or even shredded rotisserie chicken to the potato mixture. These proteins pair wonderfully with the creamy cheese and potatoes.

Use Different Cheese
While sharp cheddar cheese is the traditional choice, you can mix it up by using Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.

Vegetarian Options
If you’re serving a vegetarian crowd, consider swapping the cream of chicken soup for a cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. This will keep the casserole just as creamy and flavorful without using any meat-based products.

Try Different Toppings
If you’re not a fan of cornflakes, there are other crunchy toppings you can try. Panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even crushed potato chips work well for creating a crispy topping.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Best Funeral Potatoes

While Best Funeral Potatoes are generally easy to make, there are a few common issues you might encounter. Here are some troubleshooting tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

1. Casserole is Too Watery

This can happen if the hash browns aren’t fully thawed or drained before mixing them into the creamy base. The excess moisture can make the casserole soggy. Here’s how to avoid it:

Solution: Ensure the frozen hash browns are fully thawed and pressed to remove as much water as possible. Using a colander to drain the potatoes for at least 10–15 minutes helps to remove excess moisture before you mix them into the rest of the ingredients.

2. Topping Doesn’t Crisp Up

If the cornflake topping turns out soggy instead of crispy, it could be because the cornflakes weren’t properly coated in butter or the casserole was overcooked.

Solution: Be sure to coat the cornflakes thoroughly in melted butter before adding them to the casserole. If baking, place the casserole on the middle rack for even heat distribution. If broiling at the end for extra crispiness, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

3. Cheese Doesn’t Melt Smoothly

If your cheese isn’t melting smoothly or you’re getting clumps of cheese, it’s likely because the casserole was either over-mixed or not baked at the right temperature.

Solution: When mixing the cheese into the creamy mixture, stir gently to avoid clumping. Also, bake at a consistent 350°F (175°C). If your oven runs hotter, it may cause the cheese to clump. Using freshly shredded cheese (instead of pre-shredded) often helps it melt more smoothly.

4. Casserole Cooks Too Slowly or Too Quickly

Every oven is different, and cooking times may vary. If your casserole takes longer to cook or browns unevenly, it might be an issue with oven temperature or the dish placement.

Solution: If your casserole is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking. If it’s taking too long to cook, check if your oven is heating accurately (an oven thermometer can help with this). The casserole should be golden brown on top and bubbling on the edges when it’s ready.

Funeral Potatoes Variations for Every Taste

Want to make your Funeral Potatoes even more exciting? Here are some variations that add a unique twist while maintaining the comforting essence of the dish.

1. Spicy Funeral Potatoes

For those who enjoy a little heat, adding some chili powder, red pepper flakes, or even jalapeños to the dish can create a spicy kick. You could also use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy flavor.

Additions:

• 1 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños
• Pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar

2. Bacon Funeral Potatoes

Bacon lovers will appreciate this savory variation. Adding cooked, crumbled bacon throughout the dish or as a topping creates a salty, smoky flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes.

Additions:

• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top of the cornflake layer before baking

3. Veggie-Packed Funeral Potatoes

Looking for a way to sneak in some vegetables? You can add finely chopped spinach, broccoli, or even shredded carrots to the mixture for added nutrients and color.

Additions:

• 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped finely
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra flavor

4. Vegan Funeral Potatoes

For a plant-based version, replace the dairy ingredients with vegan alternatives. Vegan sour cream, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cheese options can be used without compromising the creamy texture or cheesy flavor.

Substitutions:

• Vegan sour cream for regular sour cream
• Plant-based butter for regular butter
• Vegan cheese (such as Daiya) in place of cheddar cheese

Best Funeral Potatoes for a Crowd: Scaling Up

Funeral Potatoes are a fantastic dish for feeding large groups, especially for holidays, potlucks, and family reunions. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—it’s easy to scale up, and it can be made in large batches with just a few adjustments.

How to Scale the Recipe for More People

If you’re cooking for a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of people you’re serving. For example, if you’re feeding 40 people, you would need to quadruple the recipe. Here’s a quick guide on how much of each ingredient you’ll need for different group sizes:

Using Disposable Aluminum Pans

For even larger crowds, consider using disposable aluminum pans. These are perfect for cooking and transporting the casserole to events, and they eliminate the need to worry about cleaning up afterward.

Tip: When using disposable pans, make sure to adjust the cooking time. The larger the pan, the longer it will take to bake through. Keep an eye on the casserole and adjust the temperature if necessary.

Fun Facts and History of Best Funeral Potatoes

As we’ve seen, Funeral Potatoes have a deep connection with family and community gatherings, but how did this dish come to be so widely loved? Let’s take a quick look at its history and some fun facts that might surprise you!

Origins of the Name “Best Funeral Potatoes”

The name “Best Funeral Potatoes” has a bit of a somber origin. The dish became a staple at funerals in the mid-20th century, where it was often served as part of a communal meal following a funeral service. Since the dish was easy to prepare in large quantities, it quickly became associated with gatherings to mourn and celebrate the life of the deceased.

However, this connection to funerals is just one aspect of its versatility. Over time, Funeral Potatoes became a go-to side dish for all types of events, from weddings to holiday meals and potlucks. Despite its somber origins, the dish has evolved into a comforting crowd favorite for many joyous occasions.

The Versatility of Best  Funeral Potatoes

One of the things that makes Best Funeral Potatoes so beloved is their incredible versatility. This dish is easily adaptable to different dietary preferences, ingredient availability, and flavor preferences. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or attending a potluck, this recipe can be customized to suit any occasion.

Perfect for Potlucks: Funeral Potatoes are ideal for potlucks and gatherings, as they can be prepared in advance and served in large quantities.

Holiday Favorite: From Thanksgiving to Christmas, Funeral Potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to your main course. Their rich, comforting flavor pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, and other holiday staples.

Customizable for All Diets: Whether you’re making it vegetarian, vegan, or adding proteins like bacon or ham, this dish can easily be adapted to fit dietary needs.

Nutritional Information for Best  Funeral Potatoes

While Best Funeral Potatoes are undeniably delicious, they do come with a hefty calorie count. It’s important to enjoy them in moderation, but it’s also worth noting the nutritional content, especially if you plan on serving them to a crowd.

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on the original recipe):

Healthier Substitutions for a Lighter Version

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish without sacrificing the flavor, there are a few substitutions you can try:

Use Low-Fat Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
Swap the full-fat sour cream for a low-fat version or plain Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while maintaining the creamy texture.

Try a Lighter Cheese Option
Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese, or mix in some part-skim mozzarella to reduce the amount of saturated fat.

Use Vegetable Oil Instead of Butter
For a lighter alternative to butter, try using a heart-healthy oil like olive oil. This can help reduce the overall fat content without losing flavor.

Best Funeral Potatoes as a Comforting Family Tradition

For many people, Best Funeral Potatoes have become more than just a dish—they’ve become a tradition that brings families together. In some families, preparing and sharing this casserole is a way of honoring loved ones, whether in times of mourning or celebration. The dish itself can carry deep sentimental value, with different families adding their own twists or secret ingredients to make it their own.

Family Traditions: Many families have their own variations of Funeral Potatoes, passed down from generation to generation. Some might add extra cheese, while others might prefer a different topping like crushed crackers or fried onions.

Memories Around the Table: Whether it’s a holiday or a family gathering, Funeral Potatoes evoke memories of shared meals and the comfort of being together. The simplicity and warmth of the dish make it a meaningful part of family traditions.

Conclusion: Make best Funeral Potatoes Your New Favorite Side Dish

Best Funeral Potatoes are more than just a simple casserole—they’re a beloved comfort food that brings people together. With their creamy, cheesy filling and crispy, buttery topping, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple at so many events. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, Funeral Potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

With endless customization options, you can make this dish as rich or as light as you like, and even try out different flavor combinations to keep things interesting. Don’t forget that this dish is easily adaptable for make-ahead meals, and it can even be frozen for future use.

So go ahead and try this ultimate comfort food—you might just find that it becomes a new family favorite for years to come.

How to Store and Reheat Best Funeral Potatoes

One of the best things about best Funeral Potatoes is how well they store and reheat, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers. If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.

Storing Leftover Funeral Potatoes

After serving your Funeral Potatoes, let the casserole cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Fridge Storage:

• Store leftover Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to let the casserole cool completely before placing it in the fridge to avoid condensation.

Freezing Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes freeze incredibly well, making them ideal for preparing in advance. Freezing this dish allows you to enjoy it later without compromising on flavor. Here’s how to freeze Funeral Potatoes:

Freezing Instructions:

• Prepare the casserole according to the recipe but leave out the cornflake topping.
• Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Funeral Potatoes, simply bake from frozen or thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating Leftover Funeral Potatoes

To reheat leftover Funeral Potatoes, there are a few methods to choose from, depending on how much time you have.

Oven Method (Recommended):

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• If the casserole was stored in the fridge, cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

Microwave Method:

• Place individual servings of Funeral Potatoes on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure they’re heated evenly.

Air Fryer Method:

• For a crispy topping, you can use an air fryer. Place individual servings in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.

FAQs About Best Funeral Potatoes

1. Can I make Funeral Potatoes without hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Just peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes, then briefly cook them in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the mixture.

2. What can I use instead of cornflakes?
If you don’t have cornflakes on hand, you can substitute with Panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even crispy fried onions for a different texture and flavor.

3. How do I make Funeral Potatoes for a large crowd?
To make Funeral Potatoes for a crowd, simply scale up the ingredients according to the number of servings you need. For example, for 40 people, you would need 5 bags of hash browns, 10 cups of sour cream, and 5 cans of cream of chicken soup.

4. Can I add protein to Funeral Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, ham, or even shredded chicken to the casserole for extra protein. Just stir it into the mixture before baking.

5. Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Assemble the dish, but skip the cornflake topping until you’re ready to bake. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then add the topping and bake as usual.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Food

best Funeral Potatoes are a quintessential comfort food that embodies warmth, flavor, and tradition. Whether you’re making it for a large family gathering, a holiday dinner, or a potluck, this dish will surely become a favorite. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different tastes, and can be prepped in advance, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.

With its creamy, cheesy filling and crispy, golden topping, Funeral Potatoes are a side dish that never disappoints. Enjoy making it for your next event, and who knows—this dish may just become a new tradition in your family too!