Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is a beloved dish that combines comfort and nostalgia in one delicious serving. This casserole is often prepared for family gatherings, potlucks, and, as the name suggests, sometimes for gatherings during times of loss. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, it stands out as a comforting side that pairs beautifully with any meal. Whether you’re looking to bring a dish to share or simply want to treat your family, these funeral potatoes are sure to be a hit.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fat: 14 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are not only rich in flavor, but they are also incredibly easy to make. This dish requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones while it bakes to perfection. The combination of creamy ingredients with the crunchy cornflake topping creates a delightful texture contrast. It’s a dish that invites seconds and leaves behind melted cheese memories, making it perfect for any gathering.
How to Make Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs frozen hash browns
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your 9×13 inch baking dish ahead of time will ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Cooking
Transfer the creamy potato mixture to the greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with a little melted butter, which will help the topping crisp up nicely. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the potato mixture.
Step 4: Finishing
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are heated through. Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle.
How to Serve Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Serve these creamy potatoes warm, directly from the oven. They pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, ham, or a simple green salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving them alongside grilled meats or a vegetable platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch.
How to Store Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze the unbaked mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish.
- Consider swapping in different types of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a unique twist.
- Always taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasonings to your preference.
Delicious Variations
- Spicy Funeral Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian option or a homemade white sauce.
- Loaded Potatoes: Incorporate additional toppings like green onions, diced bell peppers, or even ranch seasoning for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns. Just make sure they are cooked or parboiled before mixing. -
Is it necessary to use cream of chicken soup?
No, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce if you’re looking for a different flavor. -
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day ahead and keep it in the fridge, but add the cornflake topping just before baking for best results. -
What can I serve with Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
These potatoes are a delicious side dish for any meat, especially ham or roasted chicken. They also go well with salads or steamed vegetables. -
Can they be made dairy-free?
You can substitute the sour cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and use a plant-based cream of soup to suit your dietary needs.
Conclusion
Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes bring a hearty, comforting touch to any gathering. Their creamy texture and cheesy goodness combined with a crispy topping are hard to resist. This recipe is simple enough for home cooks of all skill levels, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. So next time you need a crowd-pleaser, give these funeral potatoes a try. You’ll be glad you did!
Print
Creamy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting casserole of creamy potatoes, cheese, and a crispy cornflake topping, perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen hash browns
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish ahead of time.
- Combine the frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, melted butter, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Transfer the creamy potato mixture to the greased baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle it over the potato mixture.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, until golden brown on top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. Add cooked bacon or ham for a heartier dish. Adjust seasoning to your preference before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
