Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Funeral Potatoes: the name might not sound appetizing, but trust me, this creamy, cheesy potato casserole is pure comfort food! I know, I know, the name can be a bit off-putting, conjuring images of somber occasions. But beyond the moniker lies a dish so delicious, so universally loved, that it deserves a place at every table, regardless of the event.

While the exact origins are debated, Funeral Potatoes are deeply rooted in Mormon culture, particularly in Utah and surrounding states. They’ve become a staple at potlucks, holiday gatherings, and, yes, even funerals, where they offer a comforting and familiar taste during difficult times. Think of it as a warm hug on a plate!

So, what makes this humble casserole so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors: creamy potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, a crispy, buttery topping, and just a hint of onion for depth. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear quickly at any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a simple yet satisfying meal, Funeral Potatoes are a guaranteed hit. Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 16 ounces sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups crushed cornflakes
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Potato Mixture:

1. First things first, let’s get those hash browns ready. Make sure they’re completely thawed. You can let them sit out at room temperature for a bit, or if you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for a few minutes, but be careful not to cook them! We just want them thawed enough to work with.
2. Now, in a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns and the melted butter. Give it a good mix to make sure all the potatoes are coated in that buttery goodness. This step is crucial for adding richness and flavor to the base of our Funeral Potatoes.
3. Next, add the condensed cream of chicken soup to the bowl. Don’t be shy! Scrape every last bit out of the can. This soup acts as a binder and adds a creamy, savory element that’s essential to the dish.
4. Now, for the sour cream! Add the entire 16 ounces to the bowl. The sour cream adds a tangy flavor and contributes to the overall creamy texture of the potatoes. It’s what makes them so comforting and delicious.
5. Time for the onion! Add the chopped yellow onion to the mixture. The onion adds a subtle bite and a layer of complexity to the flavor profile. If you’re not a huge fan of onions, you can use a little less, but I highly recommend including them for the best flavor.
6. Now, for the cheese! Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. We’re reserving the other 1/2 cup for the topping. The cheddar cheese adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning! Remember, the potatoes are the star of the show, and they need to be well-seasoned to shine. I usually start with about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper, and then adjust from there.
8. Now, using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy. We want them to be light and fluffy.

Preparing the Cornflake Topping:

1. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes and the melted butter (for the topping). Make sure the cornflakes are evenly coated in the butter. This topping is what gives the Funeral Potatoes their signature crispy, golden-brown crust.
2. Mix well until the cornflakes are evenly coated.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This is the perfect temperature for baking the Funeral Potatoes to golden-brown perfection without burning them.
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking to the dish and make it easier to serve them later. You can use butter, cooking spray, or even a little bit of oil to grease the dish.
3. Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Make sure the potatoes are distributed evenly so that they cook evenly.
4. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potato mixture. This adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness and helps to create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
5. Now, sprinkle the buttered cornflake mixture evenly over the cheese. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the potatoes with the cornflake topping. This is what gives the Funeral Potatoes their signature crispy texture.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the potatoes are heated through. The exact baking time will depend on your oven, so keep an eye on them and check them periodically. You’ll know they’re done when the topping is golden brown and the potatoes are bubbly around the edges.
7. Let the Funeral Potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow them to set up a bit and make them easier to serve.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize your Funeral Potatoes to your liking:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work well in this recipe.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture.
• Add Some Veggies: You can add other vegetables to the potato mixture, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some cooked bacon.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the Funeral Potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few minutes to the baking time.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup. It will give the potatoes a slightly different flavor, but they will still be delicious.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the flavor of the dish. Sprinkle them on top after baking.
• Cornflake Crumb Size: The size of the cornflake crumbs can affect the texture of the topping. For a finer topping, crush the cornflakes more thoroughly. For a chunkier topping, leave them in larger pieces.
• Preventing Soggy Topping: To prevent the cornflake topping from becoming soggy, make sure to bake the potatoes immediately after assembling them. If you’re making them ahead of time, wait to add the topping until just before baking.
• Serving Suggestions: Funeral Potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. They pair well with ham, chicken, or beef. They’re also a great addition to potlucks and holiday gatherings.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftover Funeral Potatoes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until they are heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the topping may not be as crispy.

You can also freeze Funeral Potatoes for longer storage. To freeze them, let them cool completely and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until they are heated through.

Why are they called Funeral Potatoes?

The name “Funeral Potatoes” might seem a little morbid, but there’s a simple explanation. This dish is a classic comfort food that’s often served at potlucks and gatherings, especially after funerals. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and provides a comforting and familiar taste during a difficult time. So, while the name might not be the most appealing, the dish itself is a symbol of warmth, community, and support.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving
• Fat: 20-30 grams per serving
• Saturated Fat: 10-15 grams per serving
• Cholesterol: 50-75 mg per serving
• Sodium: 500-700 mg per serving
• Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams per serving
• Fiber: 2-3 grams per serving
• Sugar: 5-10 grams per serving
• Protein: 5-10 grams per serving

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Funeral Potatoes! I hope this recipe becomes a family favorite for you, just like it is for me.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another potato dish; it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing experience. The creamy texture, the cheesy goodness, and the satisfying crunch of the topping all combine to make this funeral potatoes recipe an absolute must-try. Seriously, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this disappears at any gathering! It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories and creates new ones, a true testament to the power of simple, delicious food.

But why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile! While traditionally served at, well, you know, funerals (hence the name!), this dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or even a cozy weeknight meal. It’s easy to prepare, uses readily available ingredients, and is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. The balance of savory and slightly sweet is simply irresistible.

Looking for serving suggestions? This dish shines as a side to grilled chicken, ham, or roast beef. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. For a heartier option, try adding some cooked and crumbled bacon or ham directly into the potato mixture before baking.

And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! Want to kick up the flavor a notch? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also experiment with different types of cheese. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a smoked Gouda would add a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
* Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
* Cheese variations: Experiment with sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or smoked Gouda.
* Add protein: Incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon or ham.
* Topping variations: Use crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or even potato chips for a different texture.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for any occasion. The creamy, cheesy, and crunchy combination is simply divine, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book. Plus, the variations allow you to customize it to your own taste preferences.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible funeral potatoes recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? Did you serve it at a special occasion? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear about your culinary adventures with this classic dish. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do!