Introduction
Funeral potatoes are a beloved comfort food, often served at gatherings, potlucks, and, as the name suggests, funerals. This creamy, cheesy potato casserole is a staple in many households, particularly in the American Midwest and Mormon communities. Whether you’re bringing it to a family gathering or simply craving a hearty side dish, this funeral potatoes recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
What Are Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral potatoes are a cheesy, creamy potato casserole made with hash browns (or cubed potatoes), sour cream, cheese, cream soup (usually cream of chicken or mushroom), and a crispy topping—often crushed cornflakes or fried onions.
This dish is known for its comforting, indulgent flavor and is a popular choice for large gatherings because it’s easy to prepare in bulk.
Why Are They Called Funeral Potatoes?
The name comes from the tradition of serving this dish at post-funeral luncheons, especially in Utah and other areas with strong Mormon cultural influences. The casserole is:
- Easy to make ahead
- Feeds a crowd
- Comforting during emotional times
Over time, the name stuck, and now “funeral potatoes” are enjoyed at all kinds of events—not just funerals!
- Preparation Time
15 minutes - Cooking Time
50 minutes - Serves
10 adults - Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients of Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need for the best funeral potatoes:
Main Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian option)
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely diced (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers, panko, or fried onions)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions: Funeral Potatoes Recipe
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Thawed hash browns
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Melted butter
- Diced onion (if using)
- Shredded cheese
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Stir until fully combined.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Variations & Substitutions Of Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Want to customize your funeral potatoes? Here are some delicious twists:
1. Meat Lovers’ Version
- Add 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon for extra protein.
2. Vegetarian Option
- Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken.
3. Lighter Version
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.
- Use low-fat cheese and reduced-sodium soup.
4. Different Toppings
- Crushed Ritz crackers
- French fried onions (like the ones on green bean casserole)
- Panko breadcrumbs with parmesan
5. Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen
- Use 4 cups shredded russet potatoes (squeeze out excess moisture).
How to Store & Reheat Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Nutritional Information for Funeral Potatoes
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup) of classic funeral potatoes, based on a 12-serving 9×13-inch casserole:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal | 16% |
| Total Fat | 20g | 26% |
| – Saturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Cholesterol | 50mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 580mg | 25% |
| Total Carbs | 25g | 9% |
| – Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| – Sugars | 2g | – |
| Protein | 8g | 16% |
| Calcium | 180mg | 15% |
*(Based on a 2,000-calorie diet)*
🔎 Key Notes:
✅ High in calcium & protein (thanks to cheese and sour cream)
⚠️ Moderate in sodium & saturated fat (common in creamy casseroles)
Healthier Swaps (Lower-Calorie Version):
- Greek yogurt instead of sour cream (–30 cals/serving)
- Low-fat cheese (–40 cals/serving)
- Reduced-sodium cream soup (–15% sodium)
Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Works
Funeral potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly crispy on top. This recipe is:
✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✅ Customizable for different tastes
✅ Perfect for potlucks and family dinners
Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or just craving a cozy side dish, this funeral potatoes recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Try it today and taste the comfort!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
2. Why are my funeral potatoes soggy?
- Thaw hash browns completely before mixing.
- Don’t overmix—this can release excess moisture.
3. Can I use fresh potatoes?
Yes! Shred russet potatoes, rinse, and pat dry to remove starch.
4. What’s the best cheese for funeral potatoes?
A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives the best melt and flavor.
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Ultimate Funeral Potatoes Recipe: A Comforting Classic Dish
Ingredients
Main Casserole
- 1 30 oz bag frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian option)
- 1 8 oz container sour cream
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 small onion finely diced (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers, panko, or fried onions)
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Mix the Casserole Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Thawed hash browns
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Melted butter
- Diced onion (if using)
- Shredded cheese
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Stir until fully combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
