If you’ve never tried this comforting, cheesy, crunchy casserole, you’re in for a real treat. This Funeral Potatoes Recipe is a much-loved classic that combines creamy sour cream and soup-coated hash browns with a buttery, crispy cornflake topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the perfect side dish for gatherings, holidays, or any cozy family meal, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create a winning balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures that make this recipe such a crowd-pleaser. Each component builds flavor and richness without overpowering the others.
- 2 pounds southern style hash brown potatoes: Frozen and perfect for that classic potato base with just enough texture.
- 2 tablespoons minced onions: These add a subtle but essential depth of flavor throughout the casserole.
- 2 cups sour cream: Brings incredible creaminess and a slight tang that brightens the dish.
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup: The secret to that silky, savory sauce binding everything together.
- 4 tablespoons stick butter, melted: Boosts richness and helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Simply ensures all the flavors shine through perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey cheesiness that everyone loves.
- 2 1/2 cups corn flake cereal, crushed: Creates the super satisfying crunchy topping your taste buds crave.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Binds the corn flake topping and adds golden crispness when baked.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepping a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your dish won’t stick and will come out spotless, ready to impress.
Step 2: Combine Potatoes and Onions
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the frozen hash brown potatoes and minced onions. This base layer already smells promising and lays the groundwork for the creamy goodness ahead.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Ingredients
Next, stir in the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture is where that rich, velvety texture kicks in — make sure everything is evenly combined for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Transfer and Top
Pour your combined ingredients into the prepared casserole dish and smooth it out evenly. Then, mix the crushed corn flake cereal with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle this golden crunchy topping all over. This final touch is what makes the dish unforgettable.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. When it’s done, the top will be perfectly golden and crispy, bubbling with cheesy goodness beneath. Let it cool slightly before serving, but try not to wait too long — this is best enjoyed warm!
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving adds a pop of color and a mild oniony brightness that complements the richness. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also enhance the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish stands out beautifully alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables, which balance the creamy texture with some crisp freshness. It’s also a fabulous partner to baked ham or roasted chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this Funeral Potatoes Recipe into individual servings by baking in muffin tins instead of a casserole dish. This makes for festive presentation at potlucks or brunches, and they’re perfectly portable snacks too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover funeral potatoes stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain moisture and prevent odors from other foods mixing in.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, making it perfect to prepare in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and the topping regains its crispness, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave portions for quicker reheating but note the topping may not stay as crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh potatoes can be used, frozen southern style hash browns make this recipe foolproof and time-saving, delivering consistent texture and flavor without extra prep work.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Funeral Potatoes Recipe?
Yes! Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or another vegetarian-friendly creamy soup to keep the dish meat-free without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Adjusting for dairy-free is possible by swapping sour cream, butter, and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Just be mindful that the texture and flavor will slightly change but can still be delicious.
What’s the best way to crush corn flakes for the topping?
Place the corn flake cereal in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. You want small, even pieces that crisp nicely without turning to dust.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish or two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time slightly if needed until bubbly and golden on top.
Final Thoughts
This Funeral Potatoes Recipe is one of those beloved dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its creamy, cheesy comfort combined with a satisfyingly crunchy topping always brings people together. Whether you’re sharing it at a holiday dinner or just because, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite in your home too. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast!
Print
Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Funeral Potatoes is a comforting, cheesy casserole featuring a creamy mixture of hash brown potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheddar cheese, topped with a crispy buttery cornflake crust. This classic dish is perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds southern style hash brown potatoes (frozen)
- 2 tablespoons minced onions (frozen)
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 4 tablespoons stick butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 2 1/2 cups corn flake cereal (crushed)
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
- Mix Potatoes and Onions: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen southern style hash brown potatoes and frozen minced onions, stirring to evenly distribute the onions.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: To the potato and onion mixture, add sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixed ingredients into the prepared 9×13 casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed corn flake cereal with the melted 1/2 cup butter until the cereal is evenly coated.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered corn flake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking; adjust baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor profile.
- If you prefer a lower fat option, use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- Make sure the hash browns are thawed slightly for easier mixing, but do not fully defrost to avoid excess moisture.
