Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a creamy and cheesy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate! Made with potatoes, cheese, and a crispy topping, they’re perfect for gatherings.
Don’t worry if you’re not a chef; this dish is easy to whip up! I always make extra, because leftovers are great for breakfast too—who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes in the morning? 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: These are the base of the dish and give it that classic texture. If you prefer fresh, you can grate fresh potatoes and soak them in water to reduce starch, but frozen is so much easier!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, which really shines here. If you want a milder option, go for medium cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and cheddar.
Diced Onion: Yellow onions work best for their sweetness when cooked. If you’re not a fan, you can use green onions or shallots for a milder flavor.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. For a vegetarian version, try cream of mushroom soup. You could also use a homemade version using broth and a roux for a fresher taste.
Sour Cream: This ingredient contributes to the creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you want a healthier option, plus it adds a nice tang!
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Golden Cornflake Topping?
Getting that cornflake topping just right is important! It adds a delicious crunch to balance the creamy potatoes. To achieve this:
- Mix your crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter until they are well coated. This helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the potato layer. This ensures every bite gets some crunch.
- Bake until the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end—if it browns too quickly, cover it with foil!
Letting the casserole rest after baking helps ensure it holds together well when you serve it. Enjoy your dish!
How to Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter, divided
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes cereal
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need about 1 hour! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to make sure your cheesy potatoes don’t stick later.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, diced onion, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the melted butter. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! Mix everything together well until it’s all combined and creamy.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Now, take the mixture and transfer it into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite will have that delicious flavor.
4. Prepare the Cornflake Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter. This will help them achieve that crispy texture. Make sure they are well coated!
5. Add the Topping:
Spoon the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of your hash brown mixture. This crunchy layer is what makes these potatoes so special!
6. Final Cheese Layer:
Sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the cornflake topping. This will give it an extra cheesy, delicious crown!
7. Bake:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t brown too quickly!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a little and makes for easier serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy potatoes!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can! If you prefer fresh potatoes, grate them and soak them in water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Be sure to drain and dry them well before mixing them into the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can use cream of mushroom soup instead or make a homemade version using a roux and chicken or vegetable broth!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to bring back some moisture.
Can I Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge!
