Comforting Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe Perfect for Gatherings

Let me tell you something—there’s something magical about the scent of buttery, cheesy potatoes baking away in the oven. It hits you right in the soul, doesn’t it? The first time I made these comforting cheesy funeral potatoes, I remember the moment so vividly. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I wanted something warm, indulgent, and unapologetically rich. As I pulled the bubbling casserole out of the oven, the golden crust glistened, and I couldn’t resist sneaking a taste before I even set it down. That first bite was everything—creamy, cheesy, and a little crispy, with a perfect hint of onion. I knew right then that this dish was destined to be a family favorite.

Funeral potatoes, despite the somber name, are anything but sad. These are the kind of potatoes that you bring to gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy dinner at home. My family absolutely loves them—so much so that I have to guard the casserole at all times or it mysteriously starts disappearing before dinner is served. Honestly, they’ve become a staple for us, and I’ve tweaked the recipe over time to make it just right. Whether you’re looking for comfort food to share or a dish that feels like a warm hug, you’re going to want to bookmark this one. Trust me, it’s dangerously easy to fall in love with!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just under an hour, with minimal prep time.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery store runs here—you probably have most of the ingredients at home.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a potluck, holiday dinner, or Sunday brunch, funeral potatoes are a crowd-pleaser.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of sour cream, cheese, and buttery topping is pure comfort food magic.
• Customizable: You can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

What makes this recipe stand out is the texture. The shredded potatoes give it a soft yet hearty base, while the cheese and sour cream add creamy richness. And let’s talk about that topping—crushed cornflakes mixed with butter create the perfect golden crunch. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and reheat, which is a lifesaver when you’re hosting a crowd!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create bold flavors and comforting textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Frozen shredded hash browns: Thawed (these are the base of the dish).
• Sour cream: Full-fat is best for creaminess.
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works beautifully here.
• Butter: Melted and divided for the topping and filling.
• Crushed cornflakes: For the crunchy, golden topping.
• Diced onion: Adds a subtle savory bite.
• Salt and pepper: To season the dish perfectly.

If you need substitutions, you can swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option, or use gluten-free cornflakes if needed. And if sharp cheddar isn’t your thing, try Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: To combine the filling ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for evenly baking the casserole.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading the potato mixture evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Knife and cutting board: To dice the onion.

Don’t have a 9×13-inch dish? You can use two smaller pans or a deep round casserole dish—it works just as well! And if your mixing bowls are on the smaller side, consider splitting the mixture into two bowls for easier combining.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, and half of the melted butter. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should look creamy and evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper, then adjust as needed.
4. Pour the potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the potato mixture.
6. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are bubbly. Keep an eye on the topping to ensure it doesn’t burn.
7. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice.

Pro tip: If your topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes of baking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Thaw your hash browns: Using frozen potatoes will make the dish watery. Let them thaw completely and pat them dry with paper towels.
• Don’t skimp on the topping: The buttery cornflake crust is what makes this dish so irresistible.
• Mix thoroughly: Make sure the filling is evenly combined for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Make ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
• Season generously: Potatoes can be bland without enough salt—taste the mixture before baking.

Remember, a little extra cheese never hurt anyone. Sprinkle some more on top for an extra gooey finish!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian option: Swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup.
• Low-carb version: Use riced cauliflower instead of hash browns.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the filling.
• Seasonal swap: In winter, add a sprinkle of nutmeg for warmth; in summer, mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
• Custom topping: Use crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes.

Personally, I love adding a few dashes of hot sauce for a subtle kick—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these cheesy funeral potatoes warm, straight out of the oven. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, ham, or even a simple green salad. For drinks, I recommend something refreshing like iced tea or lemonade to balance the richness.

To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, bake the casserole first, let it cool completely, and wrap it well before freezing for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. The topping may lose some crunch, but the flavor will still be spot-on!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

The potatoes provide comforting carbs, while the cheese and sour cream add protein and calcium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium cream of chicken soup. This dish is certainly indulgent, but sometimes a little comfort food is good for the soul!

Conclusion

There’s a reason cheesy funeral potatoes are a classic—they’re the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. This recipe is easy to customize, quick to whip up, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sharing it at a potluck or savoring it with your family, you’ll love how every bite feels like pure, nostalgic joy.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Share your variations or tag me if you post it on social media—I always love hearing how you make it your own. I promise, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! Peel and shred fresh potatoes, then soak them in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and pat them dry before using.

What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?

Crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips all work as great alternatives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole without the topping and refrigerate for up to a day. Add the topping just before baking.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cornflakes and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes.

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