Funeral potatoes are a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for gatherings. Made with hash browns, cream, and a crunchy topping, they bring warmth to any table!
Don’t let the name scare you—it’s just a fun way to honor gatherings of friends and family! I love serving them with fried chicken for a cozy meal everyone enjoys. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes: These are the base of the dish. They give that comforting potato texture. If you can’t find frozen hash browns, consider using freshly grated potatoes, but they may require some extra cooking time to get tender.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try cream of mushroom or even a homemade white sauce to maintain the creaminess.
Sour Cream: It adds a tangy note and creaminess. You could substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option or plain yogurt if you need a thinner consistency.
Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. If you want to mix things up, feel free to blend in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice!
Crunchy Cornflake Cereal: This provides a delightful crunch on top. If you’re after a gluten-free option, crushed rice or corn cereal could work well, too.
How Do I Get the Perfect Top Crunch on My Funeral Potatoes?
The top layer is crucial for that satisfying crunch! Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right:
- Make sure to mix the cornflakes thoroughly with the melted butter. This helps every flake get that tasty buttery flavor.
- Use more cornflakes if you love a crunchier top—just mix it in!
- Bake until the top is a beautiful golden brown; this usually takes about 45 minutes at 350°F. Watch it closely at the end to avoid burning.
Letting the dish cool slightly before serving allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy these comforting Funeral Potatoes at your next gathering!
How to Make Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Mixture:
- 2 pounds frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 2 cups crunchy cornflake cereal
- 1/4 cup additional melted butter (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 45 minutes of baking, making the total time about 1 hour. In that time, you’ll have a delicious and creamy dish that’s perfect for family gatherings and celebrations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Funeral Potatoes bake evenly and get that perfect golden color on top.
2. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re using onion, toss that in too! Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. It should be creamy and ready to go into the baking dish.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the potato mixture evenly across the bottom. Make sure to smooth it out so it bakes evenly.
4. Make the Cornflake Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the crunchy cornflake cereal and the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter. Mix it well so that all the cornflakes are coated with butter. This will give the topping that lovely crunch!
5. Top the Potatoes:
Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato layer in the baking dish. This will create a crispy, delicious topping when it’s baked.
6. Bake Your Potatoes:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the potatoes are hot and bubbly, and the top is a nice golden brown color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, serve your comforting Funeral Potatoes as a delightful side dish! Enjoy the creamy texture and crunch that make this dish a favorite at gatherings.
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh hash browns, make sure to slice them thinly or use a food processor to shred them. There’s no need to thaw; simply mix them directly into the other ingredients. You might need to adjust the baking time, so check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. To make a simple white sauce, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, and gradually add 1 cup of milk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to your liking!
How Do I Store Leftover Funeral Potatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some vegetables like steamed broccoli, chopped bell peppers, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture before adding them to the potato mix.
