Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Funeral potatoes are the epitome of comfort food. This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned with a satisfying crunch on top. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days or large family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich, filling, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 (30-ounce) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version)
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup melted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup cornflakes or potato chips, crushed (for topping)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Mix the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until fully combined.
Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s well-packed.
Add the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or potato chips with the melted butter until well-coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy casserole!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Add protein: You can add cooked, shredded chicken or ham to the casserole for an extra protein boost.
Spicy version: Add a small can of diced green chilies or a few chopped jalapeños to give the dish a bit of heat.
Cheese variations: While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a different flavor.
Herb additions: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to add a fresh twist to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover funeral potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze funeral potatoes before or after baking. To freeze, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-70 minutes, or until heated through.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through and the topping is crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, and bake according to the recipe.

Can I use frozen hash browns directly in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen hash browns as long as they are thawed before mixing them with the other ingredients. This helps the casserole bake evenly.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or even a homemade white sauce or bechamel sauce.

How do I make the topping crispy?

The key to a crispy topping is using crushed cornflakes or potato chips mixed with melted butter. Make sure to spread it evenly over the casserole, and bake until golden brown.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a dairy-free option, the sour cream with a plant-based sour cream alternative, and use dairy-free cheese for the shredded cheese.

Can I use something other than cornflakes for the topping?

Yes, you can use crushed potato chips, breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers if you don’t have cornflakes on hand.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?

Be sure to use the right amount of butter, especially for the topping. If you find the casserole too greasy, you can use a little less butter or opt for a lighter topping, like breadcrumbs.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the cornflakes with gluten-free cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Funeral potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s hearty enough to serve as a main course or a delicious side. Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a family dinner, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness!