Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food casserole, creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped, and irresistibly delicious. Often served at gatherings, potlucks, holiday meals, and yes, even after funerals (hence the name), this classic dish is beloved for its rich, satisfying flavor and crowd-pleasing simplicity. Made with hash brown potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and plenty of melted cheddar, this casserole is topped with buttery cornflakes for the perfect crunch. Whether you’re feeding a big group or just want a comforting side for your family dinner, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a warm, nostalgic addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
Step 4:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the ¼ cup melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle the buttery cornflake topping evenly over the potato mixture.
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.
Variation
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add cooked crumbled bacon, diced ham, or sautéed green peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Use cubed hash browns instead of shredded for a chunkier consistency.
- Swap cornflake topping for crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Cooking Note
Make sure your hash browns are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before mixing. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery. If baking from chilled (prepared ahead of time), increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes. Cover loosely with foil if the topping begins to brown too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a perfect side dish for ham, roast chicken, turkey, or beef. Serve them during holiday dinners like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, or bring them to church potlucks, family reunions, or brunch buffets. Pair them with a green salad, steamed veggies, or fresh fruit to balance the richness. They also make a comforting standalone dish for casual weeknight dinners.
Tips
- To thaw hash browns quickly, microwave on low power in short intervals or let them sit in the refrigerator overnight.
- For extra cheesiness, mix in ½ cup of cream cheese or additional shredded Monterey Jack.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven to preserve the crisp topping.
- Double the recipe and bake in two pans if serving a crowd.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
Calories: 430 per serving
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 740mg
FAQs
Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?
- Yes. You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cornflake topping just before baking for best results.
Can I freeze cheesy funeral potatoes?
- Yes. Assemble the casserole without the topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, then add the topping and bake as directed.
What’s a good substitute for cornflakes on top?
- Try crushed potato chips, buttery crackers (like Ritz), seasoned breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions for a different texture and taste.
Are funeral potatoes gluten-free?
- Not as written—cream of chicken soup and some toppings may contain gluten. Use gluten-free soup and certified gluten-free cornflakes or alternatives to make it gluten-free.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
- Yes. Grate peeled russet potatoes and soak in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and dry thoroughly before using in the recipe.
Conclusion
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday dinner, potluck, or just a cozy night in, this creamy, cheesy casserole is always a hit. The crunchy topping contrasts perfectly with the soft, creamy center, making every bite a comforting experience. With easy ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing side dish that everyone will come back for seconds. Make this classic casserole once, and it’s sure to become a regular on your menu rotation.