Best Funeral Potatoes Recipe

If you’ve ever attended a family gathering in the Midwest or simply crave a dish that defines comfort food, you must try the Best Funeral Potatoes. With a creamy base of hash browns, tangy sour cream, melty cheddar, and that oh-so-shareable buttery cornflake topping, these potatoes are the star of any potluck or Sunday dinner. Every bite is rich, cheesy, and crunchy in just the right way—a dish passed from table to table for a reason. Whether this is your first time making them or you’re handing down a tradition, you’re in for a true treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, everyday ingredients that, when combined, create total magic in one baking dish. Each component adds its own little touch, building layers of creamy comfort and irresistible texture.

• Frozen hash browns: The shortcut that keeps prep easy and gives the casserole that signature soft, pillowy texture.
• Butter (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup): Melted butter infuses the potatoes with richness and coats the crunchy topping to golden perfection.
• Cream of chicken soup: Adds a savory depth and brings the whole casserole together with creamy smoothness.
• Sour cream: Gives the dish a welcome tanginess and keeps it ultra silky.
• Grated onion: Brings a gentle bite and fresh aromatics right beneath the cheesy surface.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: For that gooey, melty, classic flavor—nothing says comfort food like cheddar!
• Salt: Enhances all the savory flavors, balancing the flavors throughout.
• Ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Crushed cornflakes: The not-so-secret ingredient for the topping—expect an irresistible crunch in every bite.

How to Make Best Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and letting it get nice and hot. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a swipe of butter or nonstick spray, so none of those cheesy potatoes stick behind when serving. This step sets the stage for that perfect, bubbling bake!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a roomy mixing bowl, bring together those thawed hash browns, 1/2 cup melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, freshly grated onion, shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula and mix until everything is just evenly blended—no need to overwork it. The mixture should look creamy and flecked with cheddar throughout.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole

Spoon the creamy potato mixture into your greased baking dish. Use your spatula to spread it out all the way to the edges, smoothing the top so it bakes up nice and even. Aim for even distribution to make sure every slice is as decadent as the next.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Grab another bowl and toss together the crushed cornflakes and remaining 1/4 cup melted butter until the cereal is evenly coated. Sprinkle this cornflake mixture all across the potato casserole. This is where the magic happens—those flakes turn golden and crisp, contrasting beautifully with the creamy potatoes below.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven. Let it bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is vibrantly golden-brown and you see the cheesy edges start to bubble gently. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is worth the anticipation!

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once out of the oven, give the Best Funeral Potatoes a few minutes to settle—they’ll hold their shape beautifully. Slice into squares, serve piping hot, and get ready for that first unforgettable bite.

How to Serve Best Funeral Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives or sliced green onions adds just the right pop of color and a little herby brightness to each plate. For a cozy twist, a scattering of chopped parsley or a pinch of smoked paprika can amp up both flavor and eye appeal.

Side Dishes

The Best Funeral Potatoes marry well with a hearty main course like baked ham, roast chicken, or grilled steak. Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or steamed asparagus to balance the rich, creamy flavors and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve small portions in individual ramekins or muffin cups—everyone gets their own crunchy-topped potatoes! You can also scoop them onto sliders as a bold sandwich topping or offer them alongside breakfast for a decadent brunch treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cool, cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. These potatoes keep well in the fridge for up to four days and reheat beautifully for easy, comforting meals.

Freezing

Best Funeral Potatoes can be assembled up to the point of adding the cornflake topping, then wrapped and frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed. You can also freeze cooked leftovers in portions for future quick meals.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes. For extra crispiness, you can uncover the dish for the last few minutes of reheating to refresh the topping.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Just shred peeled russet potatoes and pat them dry with a towel. You may want to parboil them briefly first to achieve the same soft texture as frozen hash browns.

Can I make Best Funeral Potatoes vegetarian?

Yes, swap in a can of cream of mushroom soup or any vegetarian-friendly creamy soup. The rest of the ingredients remain just as delicious.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice and adds both flavor and melt. Feel free to blend in Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist, but don’t skip the cheddar for that true Best Funeral Potatoes flair.

Are there gluten-free alternatives for the topping?

Try crushed gluten-free cornflakes, gluten-free panko, or even potato chips. Whichever you use, toss them with butter for that signature crunch.

Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?

You sure can! Just bake in two pans or use a larger dish—the bake time may be slightly longer. It’s a crowd-pleaser, so more is always better.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort casserole, the Best Funeral Potatoes truly live up to their name. They’re creamy, crunchy, and sure to draw a round of smiles from everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to give them a go—you’ll quickly see why they’ve earned their legendary status!

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