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When comfort food calls your name, nothing answers quite like the classic Funeral Potatoes Recipe. This creamy, cheesy casserole combines crispy hash browns, tangy sour cream, and a buttery cornflake topping to create a warm hug on a plate. It’s one of those dishes that’s perfect for gatherings or any day you want something both simple and soul-satisfying. Trust me, once you try this Funeral Potatoes Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Funeral Potatoes Recipe is in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in balancing flavors and textures. From the crispy coating to the creamy filling, every element is a star in its own right.
- Southern style hash brown potatoes (2 pounds): The hearty base that offers a tender, comforting texture.
- Minced onions (2 tablespoons, frozen): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that complements the creamy components.
- Sour cream (2 cups): Brings tanginess and rich creaminess for that irresistible smoothness.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz): Acts as a savory binder, infusing the dish with classic comfort flavor.
- Stick butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Provides luscious moisture and richness throughout the casserole.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into gooey pockets, delivering bold cheesy goodness.
- Corn flake cereal (2 1/2 cups, crushed): Creates that all-important crispy, crunchy topping.
- Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Drizzled over the cereal topping for golden, irresistible crispness.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get everything nicely heated. While it warms up, grease a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step stops the potatoes from sticking and helps the crust crisp up to perfection.
Step 2: Combine the Potatoes and Onions
In a large mixing bowl, add your frozen southern style hash brown potatoes and frozen minced onions. Give them a gentle mix to evenly distribute the onions and start building that delicious base flavor.
Step 3: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients
Now it’s time to turn simple ingredients into magic. Add sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and salt to the bowl. Stir everything thoroughly until creamy and well combined. This is the heart of your casserole’s luscious texture.
Step 4: Fold in the Cheese and Transfer to the Casserole Dish
Stir in two cups of shredded cheddar cheese, folding it into the potato mixture for those melty cheese pockets. Then, spread this mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13 dish, setting the stage for golden deliciousness.
Step 5: Create the Crunchy Topping
Melt half a cup of butter and mix it with the crushed corn flake cereal. This buttery coating is the secret to that signature crisp topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy inside. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your potato casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. When the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges, your Funeral Potatoes Recipe is ready to bring warmth and smiles to the table.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Just before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits to brighten the rich flavors and add a fun pop of color. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also bring a subtle warmth and depth that pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole loves company. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For holiday and family gatherings, pair it with glazed ham or roasted turkey to complete the comfort-food spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the Funeral Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for charming single servings. You can also layer it with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a gourmet twist that still holds onto the classic flavors you love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making those leftovers even more comforting.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare the casserole as directed, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking to ensure even cooking and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350-degree oven for 20–25 minutes until warmed through. To keep the top crisp, remove any tight coverings during the last 5 minutes of baking. You can also use a microwave for convenience but expect the topping to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Absolutely! You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the chicken soup adds a bit of savory depth that complements the cheese beautifully.
Is it necessary to use southern style hash browns?
Southern style hash browns are preferred because they’re chunkier and hold their shape well, but you can use regular frozen shredded potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture before mixing.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a vegetarian-friendly cream soup and skip any meat-based garnishes. This dish remains deliciously rich and comforting without the meat.
What is the best way to get a crunchy topping?
Make sure to really mix the melted butter with the crushed corn flakes so every flake is coated. This helps the crunchy topping brown evenly and become irresistibly crispy during baking.
Can I add other cheeses?
Definitely! Sharp cheddar is classic, but mixing in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can give a fun twist. Just stick to about two cups total so the texture stays just right.
Final Thoughts
This Funeral Potatoes Recipe embodies the cozy spirit of comfort food at its finest. It’s easy to make, reliably delicious, and perfect for bringing people together around the table. Whether it’s a holiday tradition or a simple family dinner, this casserole is sure to become a go-to favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how much joy a dish can bring!
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