Funeral Potatoes

As the holiday season approaches, there’s one dish that makes its way to almost every family gathering, potluck, and special occasion in our home—Funeral Potatoes. This cheesy hash brown casserole is the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm and hearty side dish that complements any main course, from ham to turkey to chicken. Many even enjoy it as a breakfast casserole alongside eggs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Funeral Potatoes are not just for after-funeral luncheons, despite their name. They have become a mainstay at gatherings due to their irresistible combination of creamy cheese, savory soup, and crispy topping. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, these potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9 x 13-inch baking dish
• Oven
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hash browns (chunky, not shredded, Southern style)
• 2 (10 3/4 oz) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 cups crushed corn flakes (or crushed crackers, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix gently until well blended.
4. Pour the mixture over the hash browns, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. In another bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until heated through and the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the hash browns are evenly distributed in the baking dish for consistent cooking.
• If you prefer a less crunchy topping, you can cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For added flavor, mix in some diced onions or bell peppers.
• Try using a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cornflake topping right before baking.

Can I freeze Funeral Potatoes? While it’s possible to freeze them, the texture of the potatoes may change upon thawing. If you do freeze, it’s best done before baking.

Conclusion

Funeral Potatoes are a dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday feast or enjoying them as a cozy family dinner, they’re sure to become a favorite. Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts and variations with us. We’d love to hear about your experiences!