There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that brings people together. Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are just that—a creamy, dreamy potato casserole that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. I remember my first taste of this dish at a potluck, where it quickly became the star of the table. It’s a quick solution for busy days, yet impressive enough to wow your loved ones. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and they come together in a snap. With minimal prep time, you can have a delicious side dish ready to impress your guests. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make every bite a delight. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with just about anything, making it a go-to for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. You’ll find yourself making this dish again and again!
Ingredients for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Frozen hash browns: The base of this dish, they provide a hearty texture. Thaw them before use for even cooking.
Sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness of the cheese.
Cream of chicken soup: This brings moisture and flavor, making the potatoes extra creamy. You can substitute with a vegetarian option if needed.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! It melts beautifully and gives that cheesy goodness we all crave.
Melted butter: This enriches the dish and helps create a golden, crispy topping.
Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Onion powder: Similar to garlic, it brings a savory note that complements the potatoes.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the taste. Adjust to your preference.
Crushed cornflakes: These are for the topping, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy potatoes.
Additional melted butter for topping: This helps the cornflakes crisp up beautifully in the oven.
For those looking to customize, consider adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or an extra cup of cheese for a creamier texture. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Creating Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While the oven heats up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This creamy mixture is the heart of your dish, so make sure it’s evenly blended.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the potato mixture evenly into the dish, making sure it’s level. This helps the potatoes cook uniformly, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as the last.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the cornflakes are well-coated. This topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the baking dish. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. When you’re ready, scoop out generous portions and enjoy your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes with family and friends!
Tips for Success
Thaw your hash browns completely for even cooking.
Mix the ingredients gently to keep the potatoes intact.
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
Let the dish cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal. Any similar-sized oven-safe dish will do.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy. Use a kitchen scale if you prefer weight measurements.
Spatula: For mixing and serving. A wooden spoon is a great alternative.
Variations of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for a zesty twist.
Loaded Style: Mix in cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage for a heartier version that meat lovers will adore.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate steamed broccoli or spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute crushed gluten-free crackers for the cornflake topping to keep it celiac-friendly.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and dairy-free cheese for a delicious vegan alternative.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Pair with Roasted Chicken: The creamy potatoes complement the savory flavors of roasted chicken beautifully.
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Presentation: Serve in a colorful dish to make the meal visually appealing.
Drink Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine or iced tea balances the flavors perfectly.
FAQs about Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
What are Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a creamy potato casserole made with hash browns, cheese, and a crunchy cornflake topping. This comforting dish is often served at gatherings and potlucks, making it a beloved comfort food.
Can I make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The flavors will still be delicious!
Can I customize the recipe?
Definitely! You can add ingredients like cooked bacon, jalapeños, or even vegetables to make it your own. The beauty of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is their versatility!
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are vegetarian-friendly, especially if you use a vegetarian cream of chicken soup. It’s a great option for meatless meals!
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are more than just a dish; they’re a celebration of comfort and togetherness. Each creamy, cheesy bite evokes memories of family gatherings and shared laughter. This recipe is a reminder that food has the power to connect us, to warm our hearts, and to create lasting memories. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying it on a quiet weeknight, this dish brings joy to the table. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let the magic of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes transform your meal into a cherished experience!
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a comforting and creamy potato dish, perfect for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
2 pounds frozen hash browns, thawed
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup crushed cornflakes (for topping)
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the cornflakes are well-coated.
Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a creamier texture, you can add an additional cup of shredded cheese into the potato mixture before baking.
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture.