Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our irresistible Funeral Potatoes recipe! This creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting casserole features a delightful blend of tender potatoes, rich sauces, and a perfectly crisp topping of crushed Ritz crackers and cornflakes. Whether you call them Funeral Potatoes, cheesy potato casserole, or hashbrown casserole, this beloved dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering, holiday feast, or simply a cozy family dinner. Get ready to discover your new favorite easy-to-make side dish that promises a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite.
Why This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a Must-Try
This classic Funeral Potatoes recipe stands out as one of the best side dishes, particularly when you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. With minimal prep time – often just 20 minutes – you can assemble a dish that tastes like it took all day. The genius of this recipe lies in its simple yet profoundly flavorful ingredients: frozen diced hashbrowns provide the perfect potato base, seasoned expertly and bound together with creamy sour cream and a can of comforting cream of chicken soup. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, savory dream, while the crowning glory – a buttery, crunchy topping of Ritz crackers and cornflakes – elevates the dish with an unbeatable texture contrast. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and crispy that makes it incredibly satisfying and widely adored.
You might be wondering about the unique name, “Funeral Potatoes.” This heartwarming dish earned its moniker due to its long-standing tradition of being served at post-funeral gatherings. It’s a comforting, easy-to-transport casserole that offers warmth and solace during times of grief, making it a staple at such events, especially in the Western United States. However, its popularity extends far beyond solemn occasions. Many families across the country know and love this dish by other names, such as cheesy hashbrown casserole, party potatoes, or simply cheesy potato bake. It’s an absolute holiday favorite, gracing tables at Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and even summer potlucks and barbecues. Regardless of what you call it, its appeal is universal: a deliciously indulgent potato casserole that brings comfort and joy.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Funeral Potato Casserole
Crafting this iconic cheesy potato casserole requires a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand or can easily find at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way these humble components transform into something truly extraordinary. For the full, detailed measurements and step-by-step instructions, continue reading this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Versatile Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the key ingredients and explore some fantastic substitutions that can tailor this cheesy potato casserole to your taste and dietary needs:
POTATOES: The foundation of our Funeral Potatoes is frozen diced hash brown potatoes. Using frozen hash browns is a brilliant shortcut that saves a significant amount of prep time, eliminating the need for peeling, chopping, and pre-cooking fresh potatoes. The diced variety offers a lovely texture, but you can absolutely use frozen shredded hash browns if you prefer a smoother, more uniform consistency in your casserole. Whichever you choose, ensure they are thoroughly thawed before mixing to prevent a watery casserole and to allow for even seasoning distribution. If you’re feeling ambitious and prefer to use fresh potatoes, you can certainly peel and dice (or shred) your own Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Just be sure to par-boil them until fork-tender before mixing with the other ingredients, as raw potatoes would not cook through properly in the casserole bake time.
TOPPING: The signature crunchy topping is what truly sets Funeral Potatoes apart. Our recipe calls for a winning combination of both buttery Ritz crackers and crisp cornflake cereal. When crushed and mixed with melted butter, they create an incredibly savory and satisfying crust that complements the creamy potatoes beautifully. However, the topping is highly customizable! Other popular choices include:
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a fantastic crunch. You can toast them lightly in butter before sprinkling for extra flavor.
- Crushed Potato Chips: For a salty, ultra-savory twist, crushed potato chips (plain or even a sour cream and onion flavor) work wonderfully.
- Saltine Crackers: A more subtle cracker flavor than Ritz, but still provides a nice crispy texture.
- French Fried Onions: For a concentrated onion flavor and a delicate crispness, these are a popular addition, often mixed with the other topping ingredients.
Feel free to experiment with your favorite crunchy elements, or even omit the topping entirely if you prefer a softer casserole, although we highly recommend it for that essential textural contrast! Ensure your crackers and cereal are crushed to your preferred consistency – some like larger chunks for more bite, while others prefer a finer crumb for a uniform crust.
CHEESE: We use shredded cheddar cheese for its classic, sharp flavor and excellent melting properties. You can adjust the type of cheese to your liking. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a milder, gooier casserole. For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of Gruyere or even some smoked cheddar. Always use freshly shredded cheese if possible, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly the cheese melts.
CREAMY BASE: The heart of the creamy texture comes from sour cream and cream of chicken soup. This duo creates a rich, tangy, and deeply savory sauce that coats every potato piece. If you want to make this dish vegetarian, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of some of the sour cream, though it might slightly alter the tanginess. You can also explore making a homemade cream of chicken soup substitute from scratch using butter, flour, broth, and milk for a less processed option.
SEASONINGS: Garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion provide a foundational savory flavor. Feel free to enhance these with a pinch of paprika for color and subtle sweetness, or a dash of onion powder if you want more onion flavor without the texture of dried minced onion. A touch of cayenne pepper can also add a very mild warmth without making it spicy.
Crafting Your Irresistible Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions, further down this post.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 13×9 inch baking dish by lightly spraying it with cooking spray. This will help prevent the cheesy potato casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your thawed hash brown potatoes with the garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion. Use clean gloved hands to gently toss and ensure all the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings. This initial seasoning is crucial for a flavorful base.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until thoroughly combined and smooth. This creates the rich and tangy creamy sauce for your casserole.
- Now, combine all the main components. Add the shredded cheese, the soup mixture, the seasoned potato mixture, and 2 tablespoons of the melted butter into the large bowl. Again, using gloved hands is recommended to ensure all ingredients are perfectly incorporated and coated, creating a cohesive and evenly flavored casserole base.
- Prepare the irresistible crunchy topping. Place the corn flakes and Ritz crackers in a medium bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss gently with gloved hands to coat the cereal and crackers. For crushing, transfer the mixture to a large zipper plastic bag and use the back of a measuring cup, a rolling pin, or even your hands to crush them to your desired consistency. Some prefer larger pieces for more bite, while others opt for a finer crumb.
- Transfer the potato mixture evenly into your prepared 13×9 inch baking pan. Spread it out to form a uniform layer. Then, generously sprinkle the crushed cereal and cracker mixture over the top, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the casserole. This golden crust will become wonderfully crispy during baking.
- Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the potato mixture is bubbly and heated through. A gentle wiggle of the pan should show the center is set.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Funeral Potatoes
Absolutely! Funeral Potatoes are an excellent make-ahead dish, which is part of their appeal for events and holidays. You can easily prepare the entire casserole mixture (the potato, cheese, and creamy base) up to a day in advance. Simply transfer the mixed potatoes into your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, then assemble the topping (Ritz and cornflake mixture) and sprinkle it over the casserole. Bake according to the directions. Since you’re starting with a cold casserole, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely and achieves that perfect bubbly consistency.
Leftover Funeral Potatoes store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. While the flavors often deepen, keep in mind that the crispy topping tends to soften and lose its crunchiness once refrigerated. To revive some crispiness, you can reheat individual servings in a toaster oven or air fryer, or a larger portion in a regular oven until heated through and the topping starts to crisp again.
Yes, you can freeze this cheesy potato casserole, making it an ideal freezer-friendly meal or side dish. For best results, prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the topping. Transfer the potato mixture to a freezer-safe baking dish (preferably an aluminum foil pan for easy transfer). Cover tightly with foil and then with another layer of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, add the fresh topping and bake as directed, potentially adding extra baking time as mentioned for make-ahead casseroles. You can also bake it from frozen, covered for the first hour, then uncovered for the remaining time, but this will significantly increase the baking duration.
This recipe is highly adaptable! Consider these delicious variations:
- Bacon Lovers: Stir in crispy, crumbled bacon bits into the potato mixture before baking, or sprinkle them over the topping.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some finely diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a subtle heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Fold in some cooked, drained vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or finely chopped bell peppers for added nutrients and color.
- Different Cheese Blends: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- Onion & Garlic Punch: Sauté fresh diced onions and minced garlic before adding them to the potato mixture for a more intense aromatic flavor.
- Cream of Mushroom Substitute: For a more earthy flavor, especially if making it vegetarian, swap cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup.
For the crispiest topping, make sure the melted butter is thoroughly coating the crushed Ritz crackers and cornflakes. Bake the casserole uncovered for the entire duration so the topping can dry out and crisp up. Avoid covering it with foil during baking, as this can trap steam and make the topping soggy. If you are making it ahead, add the topping just before baking, not when assembling the potato mixture.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Your Cheesy Potato Casserole
Funeral Potatoes are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic side dish for a wide array of main courses. Their rich, savory, and comforting nature allows them to complement both hearty meats and lighter fare. Serve these cheesy hashbrown potatoes alongside holiday staples like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib for an unforgettable feast. They’re also an ideal accompaniment to classic weeknight meals such as roasted chicken, meatloaf, or pork chops. During warmer months, they shine at potlucks and barbecues, pairing wonderfully with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or juicy burgers. For a complete and satisfying meal, you can also serve them with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness. No matter the occasion, this easy casserole is sure to be a beloved addition to your table.
More Irresistible Side Dish Recipes to Explore
If you’re a fan of delicious and easy-to-make side dishes, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic recipes to complete your meals:
- Creamed Corn: A sweet and creamy classic that’s always a hit.
- Broccoli Casserole: A cheesy, comforting way to enjoy your greens.
- Slow Cooker Pinto Beans: A flavorful and fuss-free legume dish.
- Bacon Three Cheese Potatoes: For an even more decadent potato experience.
- Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: All the fixings of a loaded baked potato in a comforting casserole.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Course:
Side Dish, Comfort Food
Cuisine:
American
12
servings
1 hour
352
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen diced hashbrown potatoes thawed, 1 bag
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon dried minced onion
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups corn flakes
- 2 cups Ritz crackers
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted and divided
Things You’ll Need
-
13×9 baking dish
-
Vinyl gloves
-
Mixing bowls
Before You Begin: Important Tips for Success
- Depending on your personal tastes, you can lightly crush the crackers and cereal so that there are large chunks for more texture, or crush them more finely for a uniform crust.
- This casserole is excellent for making ahead! You can easily prepare the entire potato mixture (without the Ritz and cornflake topping) a day in advance. Cover the prepared casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator. On the day of baking, add the topping and bake according to directions, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time if it’s going into the oven cold.
- Store leftover Funeral Potatoes, covered or in an air-tight container, in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be aware that the crispy topping tends to lose its crunchiness once refrigerated. Reheating in a toaster oven or air fryer can help restore some crispness.
- For a different texture, you can substitute frozen shredded hashbrowns instead of diced hashbrowns. Just ensure they are fully thawed.
- Always make sure your frozen hashbrowns are thawed and drained well before mixing to prevent a watery casserole.
- Using freshly shredded cheddar cheese will give you a smoother, creamier melt compared to pre-shredded varieties.
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
-
In a large bowl, using gloved hands, combine thawed hash brown potatoes, garlic salt, black pepper, and dried minced onion. Mix until well coated.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth.
-
Add shredded cheese, the soup mixture, the potato mixture, and 2 tablespoons of the melted butter to a large bowl. Use gloved hands to combine all ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.
-
For the topping, place corn flakes and Ritz crackers in a medium bowl and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Toss to combine. Transfer the mixture to a large zipper plastic bag and use the back of a measuring cup or a rolling pin to crush it to your desired consistency.
-
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Top generously with the crushed cereal/cracker mixture.
-
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
Nutrition Information
Serving:
1serving
|
Calories:
352cal
|
Carbohydrates:
32g
|
Protein:
9g
|
Fat:
22g
|
Saturated Fat:
11g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
2g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
5g
|
Trans Fat:
0.3g
|
Cholesterol:
53mg
|
Sodium:
844mg
|
Potassium:
328mg
|
Fiber:
2g
|
Sugar:
3g
|
Vitamin A:
752IU
|
Vitamin C:
9mg
|
Calcium:
203mg
|
Iron:
4mg
Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Follow on Pinterest @AmandasCookin or tag #AmandasCookin!
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.