If you’re searching for the very definition of cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food, it’s got to be Easy Funeral Potatoes. This creamy, cheesy casserole features buttery hash browns nestled under a crisp golden topping, and there’s a reason it shows up at potlucks, holiday tables, and even weeknight dinners. It’s simple to whip up, impossible to resist, and somehow even tastier the next day. Whether you’re feeding a family or fueling a hungry group of friends, this is a dish that brings everyone together with each forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Funeral Potatoes is that each ingredient is easy to find but brings real flavor and texture magic. From the rich cream of chicken soup to that crunchy, buttery topping, every element matters and results in a casserole that tastes anything but ordinary.
- Frozen shredded hash browns: Choose a 30 oz bag, thawed for creamy texture and perfect bite-sized pieces in every spoonful.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: One 10.5 oz can adds a luscious, savory base (swap for cream of mushroom to make it vegetarian-friendly!).
- Sour cream: One cup brings tang and velvety richness that balances out the cheese and potatoes.
- Unsalted butter: A half cup, melted, infuses the whole casserole with buttery flavor and keeps it moist.
- Onion: One small, finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth that shines through every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Two cups of this golden goodness give the dish its gooey, melty personality.
- Garlic powder: Just half a teaspoon makes sure every bite pops with subtle savory flavor.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon enhances every other flavor without overpowering.
- Black pepper: A quarter teaspoon is just enough to offer the tiniest kick and round things out.
- Crushed cornflakes or potato chips: Toss two cups of these with two tablespoons melted butter for the essential crispy topping.
How to Make Easy Funeral Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While things are warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous greasing with nonstick spray or a bit of butter. This will keep the casserole from sticking and make for much easier serving later.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a big mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, finely chopped onion, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until every potato strand is coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Take a moment to enjoy how irresistible it already smells!
Step 3: Spread Into the Dish
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out with a spatula until you have an even layer. This helps the Easy Funeral Potatoes bake up with a perfectly uniform texture and ensures every scoop is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Topping
In a separate, smaller bowl, toss your crushed cornflakes or potato chips with the remaining two tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your casserole, pressing down very gently so the topping sticks but still stays airy and crisp.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping is beautifully golden and the edges are bubbling furiously. For the best texture, let the dish rest for five minutes before serving—the wait is worth it!
How to Serve Easy Funeral Potatoes
Garnishes
Nothing makes Easy Funeral Potatoes pop quite like some fresh garnishes. Sprinkle chopped chives, green onions, or a bit of parsley over the top for a splash of color and a layer of fresh flavor that’s a perfect contrast to the rich, cheesy filling.
Side Dishes
This classic casserole plays well with all sorts of mains. Pair it with ham, roast chicken, beef brisket, or even grilled sausages. Add some simple steamed veggies or a crisp green salad, and you’ve got a meal fit for a get-together or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or holiday tables, serve Easy Funeral Potatoes straight from the baking dish for that welcoming, homestyle look. For dinner parties, try spooning individual portions into ramekins and topping each with a sprig of fresh thyme or a curl of crispy bacon—guests will love the personal touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftover Easy Funeral Potatoes with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerated, they’ll keep beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s serving even more delicious.
Freezing
Easy Funeral Potatoes are freezer-friendly! Assemble the casserole (wait to add the topping until just before baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, sprinkle on your buttery cornflake topping, and bake as directed.
Reheating
To restore that signature crispy top, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, uncovered. If microwaving, use short bursts and keep the topping uncovered to avoid sogginess. Either way, you’re just minutes away from creamy, cheesy comfort.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Funeral Potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole (without the topping) the night before, cover and refrigerate, then simply add the crunchy topping and bake when you’re ready to serve. This makes Easy Funeral Potatoes a true stress-free side for busy holidays or gatherings.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, cream of mushroom soup works wonderfully and adds an earthy note. You can also use cream of celery if you want something a little lighter but still creamy.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Fresh, shredded russet potatoes can be substituted, but make sure to rinse and drain them well to remove excess starch and moisture. This prevents the casserole from turning watery and helps it achieve the classic Easy Funeral Potatoes texture.
What are the best toppings for extra crunch?
While crushed cornflakes and potato chips are the stars, you can also try crushed buttery crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crispy fried onions for a different twist. Mix them with a little melted butter for the perfect finish.
Can I add extra mix-ins to this casserole?
Easy Funeral Potatoes are a wonderful blank canvas! Try adding cooked bacon bits, diced bell pepper, or even jalapeños for heat. Just be sure not to overload it, so you don’t lose that truly creamy, cheesy experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s all about comfort, ease, and a little cheese-induced nostalgia, you can’t go wrong with Easy Funeral Potatoes. They’re warm, hearty, and guaranteed to bring smiles around any table—give them a try and see just how quickly they disappear!
Print
Easy Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Easy Funeral Potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy crust, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Dish:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or potato chips
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the main ingredients: In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, onion, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spread the mixture: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, mix crushed cornflakes or chips with melted butter. Sprinkle over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.
- Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom soup.
- This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.
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