Funeral Potatoes Recipe Warm, Cheesy, and Heavenly

Funeral Potatoes, also known as cheesy potatoes or hash brown casserole, are a beloved comfort food that often graces tables during family gatherings, holiday dinners, and even at after-funeral luncheons. Despite the somewhat somber name, these cheesy, creamy, and crispy potato casseroles are a crowd favorite, enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is known for its simplicity, rich flavor, and versatility, making it a go-to side dish for everything from holiday meals to casual weeknight dinners.

But where did the name “Funeral Potatoes” come from? While it may sound unusual, the dish got its name from the tradition of serving it at post-funeral luncheons, particularly within certain communities like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It’s said to offer comfort to grieving families, providing them with a warm, familiar dish during tough times. Over time, its reputation has spread, and Funeral Potatoes have become a staple side dish at various gatherings, including potlucks, church events, and large family meals.

In this guide, we will explore how to make the perfect Funeral Potato recipe, the best ingredients to use, how to store and freeze them, and the best meals to serve with them.

Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes

1. Frozen Hash Browns
The base of Funeral Potatoes is hash browns, either shredded or diced. You can use store-bought frozen hash browns, which simplify the preparation, or opt for fresh potatoes if you prefer a more hands-on approach.

2. Sour Cream
Sour cream adds richness and tang to the dish, balancing the heavy cheese and buttery flavors.

3. Cream of Chicken Soup
Cream of chicken soup helps to bind the ingredients together and provides a creamy texture. You can substitute with a homemade version of cream of chicken soup for a more natural and customizable flavor.

4. Butter
Butter is essential for both the creamy texture and the crispy topping. It’s used to combine with cornflakes for that signature crunch.

5. Cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese is typically used in this recipe. Its sharp flavor perfectly complements the creamy base and enhances the overall taste.

6. Cornflakes
Cornflakes create the dish’s signature crispy topping. When combined with butter, they give the casserole a delicious golden crunch.

7. Spices and Seasonings
Salt, pepper, and dried onion are key to enhancing the dish’s flavors. Some variations also add garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Funeral Potatoes

Ingredients:

30 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed
2 cups sour cream
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
10 tablespoons melted butter, divided
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried minced onion
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups cornflakes, crushed

Instructions:

Thaw Hash Browns
If you are using frozen hash browns, make sure they are thawed before using them. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or warm them on a baking sheet in the oven at 200°F for about 20 minutes.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you’re done preparing the casserole.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, salt, pepper, and dried minced onion. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy mixture.
Mix the Potatoes and Cheese
Add the thawed hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir until well combined, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it into an even layer.
Prepare the Cornflake Topping
Crush the cornflakes by placing them in a Ziploc bag and gently using your hands or a rolling pin. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the cornflakes are well-coated in butter.
Top the Casserole
Sprinkle the buttered cornflakes evenly over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
Bake
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is perfect as a side for ham, turkey, or any roasted meat.

Variations of Funeral Potatoes

Although the classic Funeral Potato recipe is beloved for its simplicity, there are numerous ways to customize it. Here are a few variations that you can try:

Add Bacon
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon pieces to the casserole. The smoky, salty bacon enhances the overall taste and adds a savory crunch.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian-friendly option (like cream of mushroom soup), and you’ve got a vegetarian-friendly dish without sacrificing any of the creamy goodness.
Spicy Twist
For those who like a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture. This adds an exciting kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Garlic Lovers’ Version
If you love garlic, adding minced garlic or garlic powder to the sauce mixture will infuse the dish with extra depth and richness.

Can You Make Funeral Potatoes Ahead of Time?

One of the great things about Funeral Potatoes is that they can be prepared in advance, which makes them perfect for busy holiday meals or family gatherings.

To Make Ahead
Prepare the casserole through step 5, but don’t bake it yet. Instead, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the cornflake topping and bake as directed. If the casserole is cold from the fridge, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
To Freeze
You can also freeze Funeral Potatoes for later. Prepare the casserole as instructed but do not add the cornflake topping. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge, add the cornflake topping, and bake as usual.

What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are a versatile side dish and pair well with a wide range of main courses. Here are some excellent meal ideas to serve alongside your casserole:

Baked Ham
The sweetness of baked ham complements the richness of Funeral Potatoes perfectly. The salty ham balances the creamy, cheesy potatoes for a well-rounded meal.
Roast Turkey
Funeral Potatoes make an excellent side dish for roast turkey, especially during holiday meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Grilled or Roasted Chicken
Whether you’re serving simple grilled chicken or a more elaborate roast, Funeral Potatoes add a comforting touch to the meal.
Flank Steak
The hearty flavors of flank steak make a great match for the creamy, cheesy potatoes. It’s a combination that will leave everyone satisfied.

How to Store and Reheat Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are not only a fantastic make-ahead dish, but they also store and reheat well, making them an excellent option for leftovers. Here are some tips on how to store and reheat your casserole so that it stays as delicious as when it was first made.

Storing Funeral Potatoes

In the Refrigerator
After cooking, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave.
In the Freezer
If you want to keep Funeral Potatoes for a longer period, freezing is a great option. For best results, freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding the cornflake topping just before baking.

Reheating Funeral Potatoes

When reheating your Funeral Potatoes, the goal is to maintain that perfect balance of creamy texture and crispy topping. Here are a few options for reheating:

In the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you want to restore the crispy cornflake topping, remove the foil in the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
In the Microwave
For a quicker option, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave. Place the portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cornflake topping may lose its crunch, but the casserole will still be creamy and delicious.

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid When Making Funeral Potatoes

While Funeral Potatoes are an easy dish to prepare, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure you get the perfect casserole every time:

Using Cold Hash Browns
Make sure your frozen hash browns are properly thawed before using them. If you add cold or frozen hash browns directly to the mixture, the casserole may not cook evenly, and the potatoes could end up being too crunchy or too soggy.
Overcooking the Casserole
Be sure to keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven and how thick the casserole layer is. Overcooking the dish can cause the potatoes to dry out or the topping to burn, so make sure it’s just golden brown and bubbly.
Underseasoning
While Funeral Potatoes have a simple flavor profile, don’t skip on the seasoning. Adding enough salt and pepper is crucial, as it enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and the creamy sauce. Taste the mixture before you add it to the baking dish and adjust accordingly.
Not Adding the Cornflake Topping at the Right Time
The cornflakes need to be added just before baking. If you add them too early, they can become soggy and lose their crunch. If you freeze the casserole, be sure to wait until you’re ready to bake before adding the cornflakes.

What Makes Funeral Potatoes So Popular?

Comfort Food
Funeral Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with the crispy topping brings a sense of warmth and familiarity that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re grieving or celebrating, this dish is comforting to the soul.

Easy to Make
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, Funeral Potatoes are incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is forgiving and ensures success every time.

Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a potluck, Funeral Potatoes are always the first dish to disappear. They pair well with a variety of main courses, from turkey and ham to roast beef and chicken.

FAQs On Funeral Potato Recipe

Why do they call Funeral Potatoes “Funeral Potatoes”?

Funeral Potatoes, also known as cheesy potatoes or hash brown casserole, get their name from a tradition in certain communities, particularly within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The dish is often served at post-funeral luncheons as a comforting, familiar meal for grieving families. Over time, the name stuck, even though the dish is enjoyed at various gatherings, including potlucks, family dinners, and holiday meals.

What’s in Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral Potatoes typically include the following ingredients:

Frozen Hash Browns (shredded or diced)
Sour Cream for creaminess
Cream of Chicken Soup (or a vegetarian alternative like cream of mushroom soup)
Butter for richness and crispy topping
Shredded Cheddar Cheese for flavor and creaminess
Cornflakes (crushed) for a golden, crispy topping
Seasonings like salt, pepper, and dried minced onion (with optional additions like garlic powder or paprika)

What Can I Use Instead of Cornflakes for Funeral Potatoes?

If you prefer to avoid cornflakes, there are several alternatives you can use for the crispy topping:

Crushed Ritz Crackers or other buttery crackers
Panko Bread Crumbs for an extra-crunchy topping
French Fried Onions for a savory crunch
Crushed Potato Chips for a flavorful, salty alternative

These substitutions can provide a different texture and flavor while still giving that satisfying crunch on top of the casserole.

Can I Make Funeral Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time by preparing the casserole up to the point of baking, then covering it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the cornflake topping (or your preferred alternative) and bake as directed. If the casserole is cold from the fridge, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

How Do I Reheat Leftover Funeral Potatoes?

To reheat leftover Funeral Potatoes, you have two options:

In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil to keep it from drying out, and bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you want to restore the crispy topping.
In the Microwave: For a quicker option, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The topping may lose its crunch but the casserole will still be creamy.