Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Potato Casserole)

Discover how to make the best funeral potatoes, a classic cheesy potato casserole that’s creamy, crispy, and absolutely delicious. Perfect as a side dish for holidays, potlucks, or comforting family dinners, this recipe combines hash brown potatoes, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a buttery cornflake topping. Easy to customize with different cheeses or toppings, this crowd-pleasing dish pairs well with ham, chicken, or turkey. Learn how to make this nostalgic comfort food favorite that’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a hit at your table!

Ingredients

• For the casserole:
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 16 oz frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
  • 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• For the topping:
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1 1/2-quart baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the thawed hash brown potatoes and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir gently to evenly coat the potatoes.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
5. In a small bowl, prepare the topping by mixing the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Spread the topping evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips

• For the best flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese and high-quality cream of chicken soup.
• Make sure the hash browns are fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
• Crush the cornflakes lightly to create a crispy, textured topping.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese: Swap cheddar and mozzarella with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor.
• Soup: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian option.
• Toppings: Replace cornflakes with crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs for a unique twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.

Q: Can I freeze funeral potatoes?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Q: What size dish should I use?
A: A 1 1/2-quart baking dish works perfectly, but you can use a 9×9-inch pan as an alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside ham, roasted chicken, or turkey for a comforting meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
• This casserole is a favorite side dish for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Creamy: Loaded with cheesy, creamy goodness and a crispy topping.
• Easy to Make: Perfect for beginners and ideal for feeding a crowd.
• Versatile: Customizable with your favorite cheeses and toppings.
• Classic and Nostalgic: A timeless side dish that’s always a hit!