The Heartwarming Story Behind “Funeral Potatoes”

This creamy hash brown casserole holds a special place in American culinary traditions, particularly in the Midwest and Southern United States. Its unique nickname, “funeral potatoes,” originates from its frequent appearance at post-funeral luncheons and potluck receptions, where grieving families are often provided with comforting, easy-to-prepare dishes by their community. It’s a dish that symbolizes support, care, and a shared sense of community during difficult times.

Beyond funerals, this casserole is a staple at countless social events. You’ll find it gracing tables at church potlucks, family reunions, holiday dinners, and neighborhood gatherings. Its popularity is especially notable among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), where it has become a cherished staple served by women’s groups like The Relief Society. It’s a testament to how food can bridge cultural divides and become a universal symbol of togetherness and comfort.

The beauty of Funeral Potatoes lies not only in their delicious flavor but also in their practicality. They are simple to assemble, feed a crowd generously, and travel well, making them an ideal choice for any event where a comforting, satisfying side dish is needed. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a piece of American culinary history woven into the fabric of community life.

Why This Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole is a Crowd-Pleaser

In my opinion, the absolute best part about this recipe is its incredible simplicity and speed. Using frozen diced hash browns significantly cuts down on prep time, allowing you to whip up this dish in less than 10 minutes – a busy cook’s dream come true! There’s no peeling or chopping potatoes, which saves precious time and effort, without compromising on flavor or texture. The frozen potatoes bake beautifully, absorbing all the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Beyond its ease, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. It boasts a universally loved combination of flavors and textures: fluffy potatoes, a rich and savory cheese sauce, and a satisfyingly crunchy topping. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly at any gathering, leaving everyone asking for the recipe. Moreover, Funeral Potatoes are remarkably versatile. They pair wonderfully with a wide array of main courses, from roasted meats to grilled chicken, making them suitable for any meal throughout the year.

Another fantastic advantage of this recipe is its freezer-friendly nature. If you’re a fan of big-batch cooking or freezer meal prepping, this casserole is an ideal candidate. You can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it, and simply bake it when you’re ready, offering incredible convenience for future busy days. This makes it perfect for having a delicious side dish on hand for unexpected guests or simply to make meal times less stressful.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Funeral Potatoes

Crafting the perfect Funeral Potatoes requires a thoughtful combination of staple ingredients that work together to create its signature creamy, cheesy, and crunchy profile. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that comforting flavor and texture that everyone loves.

The Potatoes: Frozen Hash Browns vs. Fresh

• Hash Browns: For ultimate convenience, we highly recommend using frozen diced hash browns. They’re pre-cut, saving you valuable prep time, and bake up perfectly tender. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; they can go straight from the freezer to the casserole dish, though cooking time may vary slightly if they are thawed. If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, you can certainly peel and cut Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into small, uniform cubes, but be sure to par-boil them slightly or soak them to remove excess starch for the best results.

The Creamy Base: Soups and Sour Cream

• Condensed Soup: A can of condensed cream of chicken soup provides a rich, savory foundation for the sauce. Its thick consistency helps create a wonderfully creamy texture that coats the potatoes beautifully. While cream of chicken is the classic choice, you can easily substitute it with cream of celery or cream of mushroom soup if you prefer, or if you want a vegetarian option.
• Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream is essential for achieving the perfect tang and luxurious creaminess in this casserole. It balances the richness of the cheese and soup, adding a subtle tartness that elevates the overall flavor profile. For the best results and a truly decadent texture, avoid using low-fat or fat-free versions, as they may become watery during baking.

The Cheesy Core: Velveeta and Shredded Cheese

• Velveeta Cheese: The secret to the incredibly smooth, melty cheese sauce is cubed Velveeta. It melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture without any grittiness. If Velveeta isn’t your preference, Monterey Jack cheese is a good substitute that melts well, though it may not achieve the exact same ultra-smooth consistency.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: While Velveeta creates the base, a layer of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend like Colby Jack) adds another dimension of cheesy flavor and texture. This layer melts beautifully over the potatoes, contributing to that irresistible gooeyness before the crunchy topping is added. It’s an optional addition, but highly recommended for extra cheesiness.

The Signature Crunch: Cornflakes (and Alternatives)

• Cornflakes: The crunchy topping is a defining characteristic of Funeral Potatoes, and lightly crushed Cornflakes are the traditional choice. When tossed with melted butter and baked, they achieve a golden, crispy texture that perfectly contrasts with the creamy interior. Feel free to experiment with other crunchy toppings like crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs for a different twist.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is used in two key ways: for sautéing the onions, adding a foundational richness, and most importantly, for tossing with the Cornflakes. The butter helps the Cornflakes toast to a beautiful golden brown and become wonderfully crisp, preventing them from burning too quickly and ensuring an even crunch.

Flavor Enhancers: Onion and Seasonings

• Onion: Finely diced onion adds a subtle depth of savory flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and potatoes. Sautéing the onion beforehand softens it and mellows its raw bite, infusing the casserole with a gentle aromatic quality. If you’re not an onion fan, or prefer a smoother texture, you can certainly leave it out or substitute with a little onion powder.
• Seasonings: A simple blend of garlic powder and paprika is all this dish truly needs. Garlic powder provides a warm, savory note, while smoked paprika adds a touch of earthy sweetness and a beautiful reddish hue to the sauce. These seasonings enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them, letting the creamy potatoes and cheese shine. You can also add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Funeral Potatoes

Making this classic Funeral Potatoes casserole is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and delicious side dish that will be the star of your meal.

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously spray a 9×13 inch (or similar sized oval) casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Onions: In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté over medium heat for about 4 minutes, or until they become softened and translucent. This step mellows their flavor and adds a nice aromatic base to the casserole. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cornflake Topping: In a separate small bowl, melt another tablespoon of butter. Add the lightly crushed Cornflakes to the melted butter and toss until they are evenly coated. This butter coating helps the Cornflakes crisp up beautifully and prevents them from burning too quickly in the oven. Set this mixture aside for later.
4. Craft the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, the *remaining* melted butter (about 1/2 cup), garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring thoroughly at 1-minute intervals. The goal is a smooth, creamy, and well-combined sauce. If needed, microwave for an additional minute or two until completely melted and smooth.
5. Combine with Onions: Once your cheese sauce is smooth, stir the sautéed onions directly into the cheese sauce. This ensures the savory onion flavor is evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
6. Layer the Casserole: Place the frozen (or thawed, if preferred) hash browns evenly in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Pour the creamy Velveeta and onion sauce mixture over the potatoes, then gently stir everything together until the hash browns are thoroughly coated. Next, spread the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) evenly over the potato mixture.
7. Add the Crunchy Topping: Finally, sprinkle the butter-coated Cornflakes evenly across the top of the casserole, covering the cheese layer completely. Ensure an even distribution for a consistent crunch in every bite.
8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly around the edges and the Cornflake topping has achieved a beautiful golden brown and crispy finish. Keep an eye on the topping during the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning; if it browns too quickly, you can loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.
9. Rest Before Serving: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve and ensuring every spoonful is perfectly creamy.

Pro Tips for the Best Funeral Potatoes

Achieving the perfect Funeral Potatoes is easy, but a few expert tips can elevate your casserole from good to absolutely unforgettable. Here’s how to ensure your dish is always a hit:

• Mind Your Cornflakes: If your Cornflake topping starts to brown too quickly during baking, don’t panic! Simply cover the casserole dish loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until the potatoes are bubbly and cooked through. This will protect the topping from burning while allowing the casserole to finish cooking.
• Thawing Hash Browns – A Quick Note: There’s generally no need to thaw your frozen hash browns before cooking this casserole. They will bake up perfectly fine straight from the freezer. In fact, keeping them frozen can help prevent the casserole from becoming watery. If yours happen to be thawed, the dish might be done cooking a bit faster than the stated time, so adjust your baking duration accordingly and keep an eye on it.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Funeral Potatoes are fantastic for meal prepping! You can assemble the entire casserole up until the point where you add the Cornflake topping. Tightly wrap your casserole dish with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, add the buttered Cornflakes topping just before it goes into the oven. If baking from frozen, you may need to add an extra 20-30 minutes to the baking time, covering it initially if the topping starts to brown too much.
• Ensure Even Mixing: When combining the hash browns with the cheese sauce, take your time to stir gently but thoroughly. You want every potato piece coated in that delicious, creamy sauce to ensure consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
• Season to Taste: While our recipe provides a solid seasoning base, feel free to adjust the garlic powder and paprika to your preference. You can also add a pinch of salt and black pepper to the potato mixture before baking, though the condensed soup and Velveeta already contribute significant saltiness. Always taste the sauce before combining with potatoes to adjust.

Storage and Reheating Made Easy

One of the many benefits of Funeral Potatoes is how well they store and reheat, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving. This also makes them a fantastic candidate for meal prepping!

• Refrigerator Storage: To store any leftover Funeral Potatoes, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures they remain fresh and delicious for future meals.
• Freezing Instructions: Funeral Potatoes freeze exceptionally well. You can freeze them either baked or unbaked. If freezing unbaked, assemble the casserole as directed, but do not add the Cornflake topping. Cover tightly with heavy-duty foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing baked leftovers, divide them into individual portions in freezer-safe containers for easy reheating. Baked casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Your Funeral Potatoes

For the best reheating results, especially for larger portions:

• From the Refrigerator: Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through. For a whole casserole, cover with foil and bake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For crispy topping, remove foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
• From the Freezer (Unbaked): If baking from frozen, add the Cornflake topping, cover the dish with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-75 minutes, or until bubbling. Remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes to allow the topping to crisp and brown.
• From the Freezer (Baked Leftovers): Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Reheat covered in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm, or microwave individual portions. If reheating from frozen without thawing, you’ll need to increase baking time significantly, potentially around 45-60 minutes covered, then uncover to crisp.

Exciting Variations and Customizations

While we absolutely adore the classic version of Funeral Potatoes, this dish is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for creative culinary experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try some delicious variations to suit your taste or occasion!

Alternative Crunchy Toppings

The Cornflake topping is iconic, but there are many other delightful options to add that satisfying crunch:

• Ritz Crackers: Crushed Ritz crackers tossed with butter create a rich, buttery, and incredibly savory topping.
• Doritos: For a bold and cheesy twist, crush your favorite flavor of Doritos (Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch work great!) and sprinkle them on top.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs, when mixed with butter and perhaps a little Parmesan cheese, provide an extra-crispy, lighter crunch.
• Seasoned Saltines: Crushed seasoned saltines add a unique salty and herby dimension to the topping.
• Crushed Potato Chips: Any plain or flavored potato chip can be crushed and used for a fun and crispy texture.

Hearty Additions for a Main Course

Transform your Funeral Potatoes from a side dish into a complete and satisfying main course by incorporating some protein-packed additions:

• Diced Ham: Stir in 1-2 cups of cooked, diced ham for a delicious ham and potato casserole.
• Shredded Chicken: Add cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly) for a creamy chicken and potato bake.
• Crispy Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon can be mixed into the potato base or sprinkled on top for a smoky, savory boost.
• Cooked Sausage: Browned and drained breakfast sausage or Italian sausage can add a robust flavor.

Spice It Up!

If you’re looking for a little extra kick, incorporate some heat into your casserole:

• Roasted Hatch Chiles: Stir in a can of diced green chiles or roasted hatch chiles into the Velveeta mixture for a smoky, mild-to-medium spice.
• Jalapeños: Finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños can be added for a noticeable punch of heat.
• Cayenne Pepper: A pinch or two of cayenne pepper stirred into the cheese sauce will add a subtle warmth.

Cheesy Combinations

Experiment with different types of cheese to alter the flavor profile:

• Sharp Cheddar: For a more pronounced cheese flavor, use sharp cheddar in addition to or instead of Velveeta.
• Colby Jack: This blend offers a mild, creamy, and visually appealing marbleized effect.
• Pepper Jack: For an extra cheesy kick, substitute or add some Pepper Jack cheese.

Vegetable Boost

Incorporate extra vegetables for added nutrition and flavor:

• Frozen Peas or Corn: Stir in a cup of frozen peas or corn (no need to thaw) with the hash browns.
• Bell Peppers: Sauté finely diced bell peppers along with the onions for extra color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Potatoes

Should you cook them covered or uncovered?

You should primarily cook Funeral Potatoes uncovered. The main reason for this is to ensure that the Cornflake topping gets wonderfully crispy and golden brown. If you cover the casserole for the entire baking time, moisture will get trapped, making the topping soggy instead of crunchy. However, if you notice the topping browning too quickly before the casserole is fully heated and bubbly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time to prevent burning.

What to serve with funeral potatoes?

Funeral Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main courses. Their creamy, cheesy, and savory profile complements many proteins and can anchor a festive meal or a simple weeknight dinner:

• Holiday Roasts: They are a classic pairing for holiday hams, roasted turkey, or prime rib.
• Pork Dishes: They pair wonderfully with pork tenderloin, pork chops, or slow-cooked pulled pork.
• Chicken & Poultry: Delicious alongside roasted chicken, smoked chicken, baked chicken breasts, or even fried chicken.
• BBQ & Grilled Meats: A perfect accompaniment to grilled steaks, ribs, or pulled pork sandwiches.
• Seafood: Surprisingly, they can also complement richer seafood dishes like baked salmon or even hibachi shrimp.
• Other Comfort Foods: Great with meatloaf, pot roast, or hearty stews.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes, you can certainly use fresh potatoes! If opting for fresh, choose starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel and dice them into small, uniform cubes, similar in size to the frozen hash browns. To ensure they cook evenly and prevent a raw potato texture, it’s recommended to par-boil them for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but still firm, or soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry. This extra step helps them achieve that tender consistency you expect in a casserole.

How do I prevent a watery casserole?

A watery casserole can be disappointing, but it’s usually easy to prevent. Here are a few tips:

• Don’t Over-Thaw Hash Browns: If using frozen hash browns, it’s best not to thaw them completely. If you do thaw them, make sure to drain any excess water thoroughly by pressing them between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture from thawed potatoes is a common culprit for a watery casserole.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy: Stick to full-fat sour cream, as low-fat or fat-free versions often contain more water and can separate during baking.
• Proper Baking Temperature and Time: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature and bake for the recommended time. This allows the sauce to thicken and the potatoes to cook through properly.
• Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce set and prevents it from being too runny when served.

The Classic Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Here’s the full, easy-to-follow recipe for making the best creamy hash brown casserole, also known as Funeral Potatoes. This dish is perfect for sharing, bringing to a potluck, or enjoying with your family any night of the week.

Funeral Potatoes

Creamy hash brown casserole topped with crunchy Cornflakes.

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Servings:
6

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter, melted, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese
• 1 (16 oz.) container full-fat sour cream
• 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom/celery)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 (32 oz.) package frozen cubed hash browns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
• 2 cups Cornflakes, lightly crushed

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan and cook the chopped onions for 4 minutes until softened. Set aside.
3. Melt another 1 tablespoon of butter in a small bowl. Add the lightly crushed Cornflakes and stir until well combined. Set aside.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, the *remaining* melted butter (about 1/2 cup), garlic powder, and paprika. Microwave for 3 minutes, stirring every minute, until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir the sautéed onions into the cheese sauce.
6. Place the frozen hash browns evenly in the casserole dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes and stir gently to combine. Spread the shredded cheese (if using) evenly over the potato mixture.
7. Spread the buttered Cornflakes evenly over the cheese layer.
8. Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
9. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Share Your Culinary Creations!

We absolutely love seeing your delicious creations! If you whip up a batch of these irresistible Funeral Potatoes, be sure to snap a photo and share it with us. Please tag @cookingwithjanica on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your cheesy hash brown masterpiece!