Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes)

Introduction

I first made Funeral Potatoes, also known as Cheesy Potatoes, for a family gathering, and it was an instant hit. This dish is a true comfort food – creamy and cheesy on the inside with a crunchy, buttery topping that makes it irresistible. My family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious and satisfying it was. It’s the kind of dish that everyone wants to dig into at family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday dinners. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to prepare, but the flavor and texture are what truly make it special. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to be the star of your next meal, this is it!

Why You’ll Love This Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes)

Funeral Potatoes is a perfect example of classic comfort food. Creamy, cheesy hash browns are combined with a rich, savory sauce made from sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and melted butter. The dish is then topped with a crispy, golden corn flake crust that adds the ideal crunch, creating a satisfying contrast of textures. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy and crunchy, salty and savory, and rich without being overly heavy.

The beauty of Funeral Potatoes is how easy it is to prepare. It takes only about 10 minutes to assemble, and then you just pop it in the oven. This makes it a great option for busy holiday meals or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The result is a side dish that everyone will love, whether served alongside a holiday feast or as a comforting weeknight dinner. Its delicious combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 2 pounds southern-style hash brown potatoes (frozen)
• 2 tablespoons minced onions (frozen)
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• 2½ cups corn flake cereal (crushed)
• ½ cup butter (melted)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns and frozen minced onions. There’s no need to thaw the hash browns; using them straight from the freezer ensures the perfect texture.
   Add the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure it’s evenly distributed.
4. Make the Topping:
   In a small bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes and melted butter. Stir until the corn flakes are evenly coated with butter, ensuring the topping will crisp up nicely when baked.
5. Top the Casserole:
   Sprinkle the corn flake topping evenly over the casserole. This will create a crispy, golden layer on top, adding texture and flavor to the creamy potato base.
6. Bake:
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to make sure the topping doesn’t burn.
7. Cool and Serve:
   Once the casserole is baked, let it cool slightly before serving. This gives the casserole time to set and makes it easier to cut into portions. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting side dish!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 12
• Calories: 300 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• As a side dish: Serve this casserole as a side dish for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, ham, or chicken.
• For potlucks or gatherings: This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to make in advance and will feed a crowd.
• For comfort meals: Enjoy this casserole with a simple salad and some roasted vegetables for a hearty, comforting weeknight dinner.
• Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Pair with: This dish pairs well with tangy coleslaw or sautéed green beans for a well-rounded meal.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add the topping right before baking.
2. Cheese Variations: While cheddar is traditional, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
3. Add Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked bacon, sausage, or chicken to the casserole mixture.
4. Gluten-Free Option: To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the corn flakes with gluten-free corn flakes or crushed gluten-free crackers.
5. Crispier Topping: If you prefer an extra-crispy topping, increase the baking time by a few minutes or broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
   Yes, you can use fresh hash browns. If you use fresh potatoes, grate them and cook them slightly before using them in the casserole.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add the topping before baking.
3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
   Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup or any other cream soup if you prefer.
4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
   You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use a dairy-free sour cream alternative if you need it to be dairy-free.
5. How can I make the topping crunchier?
   For a crunchier topping, increase the amount of butter on the corn flakes or use a mix of crushed corn flakes and breadcrumbs.
6. Can I use a smaller baking dish?
   Yes, you can use a smaller baking dish, but you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
7. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it overnight and bake as directed.
8. How long does the casserole last in the refrigerator?
   Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
9. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
10. Can I use a different type of cereal for the topping?
    Yes, if you don’t have corn flakes, you can use crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.

Conclusion

This Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potatoes) casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a holiday meal, a potluck, or a cozy family dinner, this dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy potatoes combined with the crispy corn flake topping create a satisfying and delicious side dish that everyone will love. With its simple ingredients, quick prep time, and versatile nature, this casserole is a must-try. It’s a recipe that will undoubtedly become a family favorite and a staple at all of your gatherings!

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