If you’ve ever been on the lookout for the ultimate comfort dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Funeral Potatoes Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Rich, cheesy, and packed with crispy golden goodness on top, this casserole marries tender hash browns with a luscious sour cream and chicken soup base, elevated by sharp cheddar and a buttery cornflake crust. It’s that perfect blend of hearty and cozy that makes every bite irresistible and guarantees a spot at your table for years to come.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Funeral Potatoes Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating that unforgettable texture and flavor. From creamy elements to crispy toppings, every component is here for a delicious reason.
- 3/4 cup butter (divided): Adding richness and helping crisp the topping to golden perfection.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Sautéed to bring sweetness and depth to the base.
- 2 pounds diced hash browns (thawed and cubed): The hearty foundation that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- 2 10.75 ounce cans condensed cream of chicken soup: Provides creamy, savory notes that hold the dish together.
- 2 cups sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess that balances the richness.
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese: Melts throughout for sharp, cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal (lightly crushed): Gives that irresistible crunchy topping with buttery toastiness.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s ready once your casserole is assembled so the potatoes bake evenly to bubbly, golden perfection.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter and add the diced onion. Cook the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing sweet aromas that deepen the dish’s flavor base.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions, thawed hash browns, half a cup of melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated cheddar, salt, and pepper. This mixture is rich and creamy, setting the stage for the texture and hearty taste that defines this casserole.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch glass baking dish, pressing it evenly to ensure consistent baking and easy serving.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Crunchy Topping
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the lightly crushed corn flakes and sauté them, stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. This process enhances their natural flavor and guarantees that satisfying crunch on top. Sprinkle this buttery, crispy topping evenly over the potato mixture.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake your casserole for 40 to 45 minutes at 350 degrees. What you want to look for is bubbling around the edges and a golden crust on top. Let it cool slightly after pulling it out so those layers settle and every scoop holds together beautifully.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
While the casserole is delicious on its own, adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or green onions brightens up the dish and adds a hint of freshness that contrasts the creamy richness very nicely.
Side Dishes
This Funeral Potatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or tender glazed carrots. The lighter sides help balance the richness of the casserole, making your meal feel complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For family gatherings or potlucks, consider serving individual portions in ramekins topped with extra crispy corn flakes and a sprig of fresh herbs for a charming presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate. Your Funeral Potatoes Recipe will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by covering it well with foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead comfort food for busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350 degree oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping regains some crispiness. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the crunchy top, so oven reheating is preferred for best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh diced potatoes?
Absolutely! Frozen hash browns work perfectly in this recipe and save you time peeling and cutting. Just be sure to thaw and drain off any excess moisture before mixing.
Is it okay to substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom?
Yes, cream of mushroom soup is a great substitute if you want a slightly earthier flavor or prefer a vegetarian version. The texture will remain creamy and delicious.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
It’s a bit tricky since cheese and sour cream are key. However, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese, sour cream alternatives, and dairy-free cheese to create a similar texture and flavor profile.
What’s the best way to get the cornflake topping extra crispy?
Be sure to sauté the cornflakes in butter until lightly browned before topping the casserole. This step locks in that perfect golden, buttery crunch you crave.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double the ingredients and use two baking dishes or a larger casserole dish. It’s an ideal dish for feeding a big group, especially at family gatherings or holidays.
Final Thoughts
This Funeral Potatoes Recipe is truly one of those comforting classics that feels like homemade love in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or sharing it with friends and family, the combination of creamy potatoes, savory soup, sharp cheese, and crispy cornflake topping never fails to delight. Grab your ingredients and give it a go — I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy casserole known as Funeral Potatoes, featuring crispy hash browns, cheesy sauce made with cream of chicken soup and sour cream, topped with toasted buttery corn flakes. This classic dish is perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
Topping
- 3 cups corn flakes cereal (lightly crushed)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent to develop sweetness and flavor.
- Mix Casserole Base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions, thawed hash browns, 1/2 cup melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Prepare Topping: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the lightly crushed corn flakes and sauté while stirring for 2-3 minutes until the flakes are lightly browned and crispy.
- Add Topping and Bake: Spread the browned corn flakes over the top of the casserole evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Remove casserole from oven and let it cool slightly before serving to allow it to set for easier portioning.
Notes
- Use thawed hash browns and ensure they are cubed for better texture.
- The topping can be customized with crushed Ritz crackers or crushed potato chips as alternatives to corn flakes.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup.
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead; assemble and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
