Basic Funeral Potatoes: A Comforting Classic

If there’s one dish that brings comfort to any gathering, it's funeral potatoes. Despite the name, this dish isn’t just for funerals—it's a staple at family dinners, holiday meals, and potlucks across the country. Funeral potatoes are the kind of hearty, cheesy casserole that warms the soul and satisfies everyone at the table.

Why the unusual name? Traditionally, funeral potatoes were often served as part of a communal meal after funerals, providing comfort to grieving families and their guests. While the origins might be somber, this casserole is anything but. It's rich, creamy, and topped with a delightful crunch, making it an irresistible side dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something nostalgic about funeral potatoes. They bring back memories of big family meals, sharing stories, and the feeling of togetherness. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe, this basic funeral potatoes recipe hits the spot.

The appeal of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Plus, it's versatile! You can add your own twists, like using different toppings or incorporating extra vegetables.

Recipe Overview: Basic Funeral Potatoes

This basic recipe uses frozen hash browns, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and cream of chicken soup to create a deliciously creamy potato casserole. The crunchy topping—whether it’s cornflakes, panko, or breadcrumbs—adds the perfect contrast to the soft, cheesy interior.

Ingredients

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for topping
• 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. Mix the casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
3. Spread the mixture: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
4. Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup melted butter. Sprinkle the topping over the casserole, covering it evenly.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
6. Serve: Once baked, allow the funeral potatoes to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the casserole time to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This basic funeral potatoes recipe makes about 8 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. While funeral potatoes are often served as a side dish, they’re rich and hearty enough to be enjoyed on their own. Here are some great pairing ideas:

• Grilled or roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef
• A fresh green salad to balance out the richness
• Steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli
• A light and refreshing fruit salad

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because these potatoes disappear fast!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the topping may lose some of its crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Funeral potatoes are a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the casserole (minus the topping) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping just before you bake it to keep it crispy.

Can I freeze funeral potatoes?

Absolutely. To freeze, prepare the casserole but don’t add the topping. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes if you prefer. Peel and grate 4-5 large russet potatoes and use them in place of the frozen hash browns. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes before mixing them with the other ingredients.

Conclusion

This basic funeral potatoes recipe is a classic for a reason—it's simple, delicious, and loved by everyone who tries it. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a holiday meal, or a potluck, these cheesy potatoes will surely be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out for you. We’d love to hear your tips and variations in the comments below!