Name: Comforting Cheesy Funeral Potatoes That Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 32 oz Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns (Fresh potatoes can be substituted but may need longer cooking.); 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup (For a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom soup.); 2 cups Sour Cream (Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.); 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded (Opt for extra-sharp for added depth.); 1 Yellow Onion, finely chopped (Shallots can be a milder substitute.); 6 tbsp Butter, divided (Unsalted butter is best for more control.); 1 tsp Salt (Feel free to adjust based on your taste.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Gives a gentle spice; increase for more heat.); 2 cups Cornflakes, crushed (Panko breadcrumbs work if gluten is not a concern.)

While chatting with a friend over coffee, she shared her secret weapon for making gatherings unforgettable: Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. This comforting casserole is an absolute game-changer, blending crisp, golden cornflakes and creamy layers of sharp cheddar over tender hash browns. Perfect for potlucks, holiday feasts, or cozy dinners, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table. Not only is it straightforward to whip up, but it also caters beautifully to both vegetarians and cheese lovers alike, making it a crowd-pleaser. Each bite promises a delightful textural contrast between the lush interior and the crunchy topping. Wouldn’t you love to recreate this nostalgic favorite and impress your loved ones?

Why Are Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Irresistible?

Simplicity: This dish is a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and no advanced culinary skills.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will rave about the delicious combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and that crunchy cornflake top.

Versatile: Not only can it be served alongside your favorite main dishes, like Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or Sausage Potatoes Skillet, but it can also shine as a stand-alone vegetarian favorite.

Comfort Food Staple: Evoke nostalgia and warmth with each bite, making it a must-have for Thanksgiving or any cozy night in.

Texture Play: With a creamy interior and a contrasting crunchy topping, your taste buds will be treated to a delightful experience!

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Ingredients

Get ready to get your hands on the essential ingredients for this comforting casserole!

For the Casserole

Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns – The foundation of your casserole; fresh potatoes can be substituted but may need longer cooking.
Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz) – Serves as a creamy binder, but for a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom soup.
Sour Cream (2 cups) – Adds richness and tang; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – The star ingredient for gooey deliciousness; opt for extra-sharp for added depth.
Yellow Onion (1, finely chopped) – Enhances savory flavor; shallots can be a milder substitute.
Butter (6 tbsp, divided) – For sautéing and extra flavor enhancement; unsalted butter is best for more control.
Salt (1 tsp) – Brings out all the flavors; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Gives a gentle spice; increase to add more heat if desired.

For the Topping

Cornflakes (2 cups, crushed) – Creates that delightful crunch on top; panko breadcrumbs work if gluten is not a concern.

Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a fulfilling dish of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes that will surely bring smiles at your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Sauté the Onion
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and sauté until it becomes softened and golden, about 5–7 minutes. The fragrant aroma will signal that it’s ready for the next step. This will add a delightful depth of flavor to your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, 2 cups of sour cream, and 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Gently fold in the sautéed onions along with the remaining melted butter, seasoning with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Blend until everything is evenly mixed for a rich, creamy base.

Step 3: Add Hashbrowns
Carefully fold in the frozen shredded hashbrowns into the creamy mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated without over-mixing. This step is crucial for maintaining the hashbrowns’ texture in your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Once combined, the mixture should have a delightful, hearty consistency.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes mixture into the dish, spreading it into an even layer. Smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring that every corner is filled for even cooking and that beautiful, bubbling finish.

Step 5: Prepare Cornflake Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter. Mix until they are thoroughly coated, then sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole. This will create a delicious and contrasting texture on top of your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.

Step 6: Bake
Place your baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. The crispy cornflake topping should create an inviting crunch, signaling that your dish is nearing completion.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 5–10 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut into squares without falling apart. Enjoy the anticipation of delicious comfort food!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Use Frozen Hashbrowns: Opt for frozen shredded hashbrowns as they’ll provide the perfect texture and save time. Fresh potatoes need more prep!
Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter casserole, substitute Greek yogurt for half the sour cream. This maintains richness while reducing calories.
Mind the Mixing: Gently fold hashbrowns into the mixture to avoid breaking them down. This keeps your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes hearty and satisfying.
Perfectly Crisp Top: When layering the cornflake topping, ensure they’re well-coated with butter for maximum crunch. A great topping enhances the flavor!
Rest Time Matters: Let your casserole sit after baking to set properly. This makes slicing easier and improves the overall texture.
Reheat with Care: To preserve the crunchy topping, reheat leftovers in the oven. Microwaving can make them soggy!

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with less hassle on busy days! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and transferring the mixture to a greased baking dish. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then top with crushed cornflakes and bake as directed. This process ensures your dish remains just as delicious and the cornflake topping stays crunchy. Enjoy the ease of serving warm, heartfelt comfort food any night of the week!

What to Serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Pairing Cheesy Funeral Potatoes with the right sides will create a memorable meal that delights every palate.

Crisp Green Salad: The freshness and crunch of greens provide a vibrant contrast, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and tender texture heighten the comfort food experience, adding a touch of color to your plate.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The savory, crispy elements of bacon perfectly complement the creamy goodness of the potatoes, making for a delectable flavor duo.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds a lean protein component that works harmoniously with the cheesy, comforting casserole.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors and slight char of roasted asparagus nicely offset the creamy richness of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, offering a delightful balance.
Homemade Gravy: A savory, rich gravy poured over could elevate your meal even further, bringing a comforting, classic touch to each bite.
Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the richness of the dish with its tantalizing notes.
Chocolate Cream Pie: End your meal on a sweet note; the creamy richness of this dessert complements the casserole’s comforting flavors perfectly!

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, making them your own with these delightful twists and swaps!

Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy ingredients with cashew cream and vegan cheese for a comforting, plant-based version.
Extra Cheesy: Mix in a blend of gouda and mozzarella along with the cheddar for a deliciously gooey experience.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the casserole mix for a lovely aromatic touch.
Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to add heat and zing to the dish. Spice it up and awaken your taste buds!
Bacon Lover’s Twist: Incorporate crumbled cooked bacon for a savory crunch that complements the creamy layers beautifully.
Vegetable Boost: Add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious flavor boost. Each bite will be a surprise of flavors!
Crunchy Alternatives: Use crushed potato chips or tortilla chips instead of cornflakes for a different texture and flavor profile. The variety is delightful!
Sautéed Garlic: For an added depth of flavor, sauté minced garlic with the onions. This will enhance the dish’s savory notes, leaving everyone wanting more.

With these variations, you can transform the classic Cheesy Funeral Potatoes into a personal favorite that suits your taste buds. They’ll pair wonderfully with dishes like Garlic Mashed Potatoes or even your next batch of Sloppy Joe Cheesy for a comforting meal.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the unbaked Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes to retain that glorious crunchy topping!

Room Temperature: If you’re serving at a gathering, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes can be left out for up to 2 hours but should be refrigerated afterward to prevent spoilage.

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of hashbrowns should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using frozen shredded hashbrowns for this casserole. They give a great texture and make the dish easier to prepare. If you’re using fresh potatoes, you’ll need to shred them and cook them until they are tender, which will take longer.

How long can I store leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to allow the casserole to cool completely before covering to help maintain its delicious flavor and texture.

Can I freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

What if my casserole is too watery?
If you find that your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes come out watery, it may be because of excess moisture in the hashbrowns or cream of chicken soup. To prevent this, ensure your hashbrowns are well-drained and consider using a thicker cream of chicken soup. Baking it a bit longer can help to evaporate any extra moisture as well.

Are Cheesy Funeral Potatoes suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they can be! Simply substitute the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly option. The rest of the ingredients are already deliciously vegetarian, so everyone can enjoy this delightful dish!

How do I ensure a crunchy topping when reheating?
To keep that delightful crunch on top of your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes when reheating, always opt for the oven. Preheat it to 350°F and bake for about 30-40 minutes, until heated through. If you’re using a microwave, I suggest sprinkling some additional crushed cornflakes on top afterward for extra crispiness.