Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8
There’s something heartwarming and comforting about the aroma of cheesy potatoes baking in the oven. Often served at gatherings, potlucks, and family events, these decadent transformations of a simple potato dish become everyone’s favorite comfort food. The beauty of cheesy funeral potatoes lies not just in their rich, creamy texture and flavor but also in the memories they hold— meals shared with loved ones during significant moments in life.
This recipe for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is rich with cheesy goodness and topped with a buttery, crispy layer of cornflakes that gives each bite a satisfying crunch. You’ll learn how to create a creamy base from scratch, all while discovering tips for achieving that perfect golden top. This dish is ideal for feeding a crowd and is sure to leave guests asking for seconds.
What Is Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, also known simply as “funeral potatoes,” is a beloved comfort dish that consists of shredded or diced potatoes mixed with a rich cheese sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Originating from the Midwest and commonly served at funerals and gatherings, this casserole embodies warmth and community. Despite its somber name, the dish brings people together and is often associated with significant life events, where food plays a vital role in nurturing those who gather.
The main ingredients typically include shredded potatoes, cream of chicken soup or cheese sauce, sour cream, and plenty of shredded cheese, creating a velvety texture that coats each morsel. The topping often consists of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs, enriched with melted butter, which provides a delightful crunch. The flavor balance of creamy and cheesy potatoes combined with a crispy topping makes this dish truly unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
There are several reasons you’ll fall in love with this Cheesy Funeral Potatoes recipe. First and foremost, the taste is incredibly rich and satisfying. The combination of creamy cheese combined with the earthy flavors of potatoes creates a scrumptious experience that no one can resist.
Additionally, it’s a breeze to prepare! With minimal prep time, you combine all the ingredients and bake them into a golden delight. This dish is especially handy for busy parents or anyone needing a go-to recipe for potlucks and gatherings, where you can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when needed.
Cost-effectiveness is another appealing factor. Using simple, affordable ingredients like potatoes, cheese, cream of chicken soup, and cornflakes, you can feed a large group without breaking the bank. The versatility means that you can customize the recipe according to dietary preferences and personal tastes, making it a perfect dish for everyone at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Frozen shredded hash browns: This shortcut ingredient is a time saver. If you can’t find it, you can use fresh grated potatoes, but make sure to rinse and dry them properly to remove excess starch.
- Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Cream of chicken soup: This provides the base for the cheesy sauce. Substituting it with cream of mushroom soup adds a great flavor for a vegetarian option.
- Cheddar cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor, or mix in pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- Butter: Used for both cooking and the topping, contributing to the golden crust.
- Cornflakes: Crushed and layered on top, they provide the desired crunch. You can also use Panko breadcrumbs or even crushed potato chips for a unique twist.
- Onion: Finely chopped, it adds a wonderful aromatic flavor. If you are not a fan of onions, consider using onion powder as a substitute.
How to Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Follow these simple steps to create your very own Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly.
- Prepare the potato base: In a large bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onions. Take your time to thoroughly mix these ingredients until the potatoes are well coated. The mixture should appear creamy and voluminous.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and evenly spread the potato mixture into the dish. Use a spatula to even out the surface. This will ensure that every bite is filled with flavor.
- Add the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining cheese with the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. This creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes. Pour this mixture evenly over the potato base, ensuring every part is well covered.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma that fills your home will be absolutely tempting!
- Cool and serve: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dish to set up a bit, making it easier to scoop out servings.
5 Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Version: If you’re catering to a vegetarian crowd, you can easily transform this dish by using cream of mushroom soup and omitting any meat-based toppings. Enhance the flavor even further by adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the potato mix.
Loaded Baked Potato Style: Channel the flavors of a loaded baked potato by adding crumbled bacon, green onions, and extra cheese to the mix. For an extra kick, use pepper jack cheese or a sprinkle of chili flakes for that delectable spicy-tinged flavor.
Spicy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes: Incorporating diced jalapeños or chopped green chilies into your mixture elevates the flavor profile. Top it off with pepper jack cheese to intensify the flavor, leaving spice lovers begging for seconds.
Sweet Potato Variation: For a healthier twist, use grated sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes will give a different flavor profile along with vibrant color, and the natural sweetness pairs nicely with the creamy cheese sauce.
Air Fryer Method: If you’re short on time, you can make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes in an air fryer. Prepare the mixture and spread it in a suitable baking dish or foil pan. Cook at 320°F for about 25-30 minutes, checking often to ensure the topping doesn’t burn. This method also enhances the crispy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, it’s essential to avoid overcooking or undercooking the dish. Overcooking can lead to dry, unappetizing potatoes, while undercooking leaves you with a mushy texture that’s far from desirable. **Always check for doneness** by ensuring that the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Another mistake is neglecting to thaw frozen shredded potatoes. Adding them directly into the mixture without thawing can result in an unevenly cooked casserole. **Always allow your potatoes enough time to thaw** in the refrigerator before preparation.
Finally, be wary of the cheese you choose. High moisture varieties, such as fresh mozzarella, can lead to a soggy casserole. Instead, opt for aged cheeses like **sharp cheddar**, which produces a better flavor and texture.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
If you have leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, they store exceptionally well. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge, where they will last up to 3-5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked dish. Simply prepare all the ingredients, place them in a suitable freezer-safe dish, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Properly stored, they can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To cook, simply remove from the freezer and bake from frozen; add an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
To reheat leftovers, place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning, and heat for approximately 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Cheesy Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is particularly handy for events where you want to minimize kitchen time during the gathering.
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can mix and match different cheese types! While cheddar is traditional, you can incorporate Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses to create unique flavors. Just remember that moisture levels may affect the final texture.
Should I cover the casserole while baking?
It’s ideal to bake it uncovered towards the end to get that crispy top. However, if the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil for the first 30 minutes then uncover. This will ensure the casserole cooks through without burning.
What should I serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as a side for brunch with eggs. Some also enjoy them as a centerpiece during potlucks, accompanied by a simple salad or green veggies for balance.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes gluten-free, simply replace the cornflakes topping with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Also, ensure that the cream of chicken soup you use is certified gluten-free.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a delightful addition to any gathering or family meal. With their comforting textures, ease of preparation, and opportunities for personalization, this dish can become a family favorite in no time. You can tailor the flavors to suit any occasion, making it a versatile option for busy lives. Try this recipe, and feel free to share your variations or experiences! You’ll find that these cheesy, crispy potatoes not only satisfy cravings but also create warm memories around the table.
