Funeral potatoes, a comforting and creamy potato casserole, have become a beloved dish for gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. Originally popularized in the Mountain West region of the United States, this dish earned its name because it was commonly served at post-funeral luncheons. Despite its somber origins, funeral potatoes are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich blend of shredded potatoes, cheese, cream, and a crunchy topping, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food.
1. Original Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup melted butter (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cornflakes (crushed, for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your party potatoes cook evenly and develop a golden, bubbly top.
Step 2: Prepare the potato mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup of melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Add Hash Browns
Stir the thawed hash browns into the mixture until fully coated.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures that every bite is filled with that cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Make the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your party potatoes are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Variations Recipes
Funeral potatoes can be customized to suit your taste or use ingredients you already have on hand. Here are some popular variations:
Protein Additions:
- Mix in cooked diced ham, crisp bacon, or shredded chicken for a heartier casserole.
- Add cooked ground sausage for a breakfast-inspired twist.
Vegetable Boost:
- Stir in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Add chopped broccoli or spinach for a healthier version with a pop of color.
Spice It Up:
- Add diced green chiles or jalapeños for a kick.
- Sprinkle with cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Alternative Toppings:
- Replace cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs, French fried onions, or crushed potato chips for a different crunch.
- Add shredded Parmesan cheese to the topping for even more flavor.
Creamy Substitutions:
- Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier and lighter casserole.
3. Serving Suggestions
Funeral potatoes are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides. Here are some serving ideas:
Main Courses:
- Serve alongside roast chicken, glazed ham, or grilled pork chops.
- Pair with barbecue ribs or smoked brisket for a comforting meal.
Sides:
- Complement with a simple green salad or steamed green beans for balance.
- Add a side of buttery dinner rolls or cornbread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Breakfast Option:
- Serve funeral potatoes as part of a breakfast spread with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
Potluck Favorite:
- Bring funeral potatoes to potlucks or parties, and watch it disappear in no time. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!
4. Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Funeral potatoes are a timeless comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and some creative variations, you can adapt this recipe to suit any occasion. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a regular favorite in your kitchen!
