This Funeral Potatoes recipe brings ultimate comfort to any meal. It combines creamy, cheesy hash browns with a buttery, crunchy cornflake topping, making it a favorite for holiday gatherings and family dinners.
INGREDIENTS
- Butter (for filling): 1/3 cup, melted, adding richness and binding the ingredients together.
- Sour Cream: 2 cups, bringing a creamy and tangy layer to the casserole.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 10.5 oz, offering depth and savory flavor.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance all the flavors.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, adding subtle onion flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, melting into the hash browns for a cheesy bite.
- Frozen Hash Browns: 24 ounces, cubed or diced, thawed, providing the hearty base for the casserole.
- Butter (for topping): ½ cup, melted, making the cornflake topping crispy.
- Corn Flakes: 3 cups, slightly crushed, creating a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Step 2: Mix the Casserole Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, salt, and onion powder. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined, creating a creamy base for the casserole.
- Step 3: Add Cheese and Hash Browns
- Gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and thawed, diced hash browns until they are well coated with the creamy mixture.
- Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, then pour the hash brown mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 5: Make the Cornflake Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and crushed corn flakes. Stir until the corn flakes are fully coated with butter, which will help them become crispy in the oven.
- Step 6: Add Topping and Bake
- Spoon the cornflake mixture over the top of the casserole, spreading it in an even layer. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown around the edges.
- Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Funeral Potatoes are best served hot from the oven as a side dish for large gatherings, holiday meals, or potlucks.
- For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy, or microwave for a quicker option.
Helpful Notes
- To prevent the casserole from becoming watery, make sure the hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry if needed.
- You can adjust the cheese quantity based on your preference for a creamier or cheesier casserole.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before baking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Michael Symon recommends adding a pinch of cayenne to cheese casseroles for subtle heat.
- Chef Trisha Yearwood suggests using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a melty, gooey texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a classic comfort food with a creamy, cheesy filling and a crispy topping.
- Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Great for holidays, family dinners, or any gathering where you want a side dish that everyone will love.
Variations
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the filling for a smoky flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten up the dish slightly.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes for a different type of crunchy topping.