There’s something truly magical about a dish that evokes sweet memories and gathers people around the table, isn’t there? Enter Cheesy Funeral Potatoes—the ultimate comfort food side dish that has made its mark at potlucks and family gatherings for generations. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it combines contrasting textures and rich flavors, from the creamy filling to the crispy cornflake topping. Prepping these cheesy delights is a breeze, making them an easy, crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, which means less stress when entertaining. Are you ready to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dig in!
Why Are Cheesy Funeral Potatoes So Loved?
Nostalgic Comfort: This dish is a beloved staple that reminds many of family gatherings, making it a go-to for creating warm memories.
Easy Prep: With minimal effort required, you can whip up these cheesy delights in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves a hearty side dish, and Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are guaranteed to impress your guests at potlucks and holidays.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding veggies or varying the cheese, all while keeping it incredibly delicious.
Make-Ahead Magic: Preparing this dish in advance not only saves you time but also intensifies the flavors, ensuring that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
Ready to elevate your next meal? Discover more comfort food ideas with our easy-to-follow storage tips for make-ahead meals.
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Ingredients
For the Dish
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to swap it with margarine if needed.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides a creamy base; can be replaced with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option.
- Sour Cream – Contributes tanginess and creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a healthier choice.
- Cream Cheese – Adds a rich texture; make sure to use soft cream cheese for easier mixing.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Adds subtle heat; white pepper can be used if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Offers savory depth; fresh minced garlic serves as a delightful alternative.
- Yellow Onion (grated) – Provides sweetness and moisture; fresh shallots can also be a suitable substitute.
- Cheddar Cheese – Delivers a sharp, tangy flavor and melty goodness; you can use Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for a unique twist.
- Frozen Hash Browns – The core component for structure; you can use freshly shredded potatoes, just be sure to prepare them in advance.
For the Topping
- Corn Flakes – Gives that perfect crunch on top; crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs can also work for different textures.
- Unsalted Butter (for topping) – Binds the corn flakes together; oil can be used as a lighter alternative.
Get ready to create a cheesy delight that everyone will be raving about! These Cheesy Funeral Potatoes aren’t just another side dish; they’re the heart of comfort food that will bring everyone to the table.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Step 1: Thaw the Hash Browns
Begin by placing the frozen hash browns in the refrigerator overnight to ensure they are fully thawed. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. By allowing the potatoes to defrost completely, you’ll prevent excess moisture from making your dish watery during baking, leading to a beautifully creamy interior.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help achieve that golden, bubbly finish on your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Set the dish aside and get ready to mix your ingredients!
Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Add in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and grated onion. Use a spatula to mix everything together until you have a smooth, creamy base. This rich mixture will create the heart of your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, so make sure it’s well blended.
Step 4: Incorporate the Potatoes and Cheese
Once your base is smooth, gently fold in the thawed hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese until all the ingredients are well combined. You want to ensure each potato piece is generously coated in the cheesy mixture. This will be the foundation of your dish, providing comforting, cheesy goodness in every bite of the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.
Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Carefully spoon the cheesy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This step ensures that your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes will bake uniformly, resulting in a deliciously creamy center. Smooth out the top with a spatula to prepare it for the crispy topping that’s about to come!
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a zip-lock bag, crush the corn flakes until they are in smaller pieces but not completely pulverized. Then, mix the crushed corn flakes with melted unsalted butter in a bowl until well coated. This buttery, crunchy topping is what brings texture to your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, so be generous in applying it over the potato mixture.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Finally, place your dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible! Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving, and get ready for compliments at your gatherings.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Defrost Properly: Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed overnight to avoid excess moisture, which can make the dish watery.
Grate Fresh Cheese: Using freshly grated cheddar cheese enhances melt quality and improves the overall texture of your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the topping right before baking for a time-saving meal option.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to mix in diced ham or crispy bacon for added protein and flavor that elevate your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.
Texture Variations: If you prefer different textures, try substituting crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for the cornflakes topping.
What to Serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
There’s nothing quite like creating a comforting meal that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.
- Glazed Ham: The sweet glaze beautifully contrasts the rich, creamy potatoes, making it a classic combo that feels like home.
- Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
- Green Beans Almondine: The bright, crunchy beans bring a fresh element that cuts through the richness of the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing provide a refreshing side, allowing the creamy potatoes to shine even brighter.
- Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy, slightly bitter taste complements the comforting richness of the potato dish, enhancing each bite.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread adds a delightful texture contrast, making for a heartwarming meal that’s truly irresistible.
- Sparkling Cider: A bubbly drink that lifts the meal with its crispness, perfectly quenching the palate between bites of cheesy goodness.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Ending with these warm cookies gives a nostalgic nod to comfort desserts, rounding off your meal on a sweet note.
Gather your loved ones and prepare for a delightful dining experience that will have everyone asking for your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes!
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Variations
Get ready to make these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes truly your own with some delicious twists and substitutions!
Vegetable Boost: Fold in chopped fresh spinach or broccoli for a nutritious and colorful addition that enhances both flavor and texture. A little green never hurt anyone, right? It’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies for the kiddos!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes a delightful heat. This little spicy twist will excite the taste buds of those who love a kick!
Different Cheese: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack or a mix of different cheeses like Gouda for amazing flavor variations. Combining cheese types can create a truly gourmet experience that pleases every palate.
Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds a tangy flavor while cutting back on calories without sacrificing creaminess.
Protein Power: Include cooked, diced ham or crispy bacon for added heartiness and flavor. Everyone loves a side dish that’s a meal in itself, right? It makes a wonderful addition for those hearty appetites!
Crunchy Variations: Instead of corn flakes, try crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned breadcrumbs for a different kind of crunch on top. It’s always fun to switch things up for a textural surprise in every bite!
Savory Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs, which can add warmth and complexity to your dish. Spice up your life and make every gathering a flavorful affair!
Herby Freshness: Top your dish with freshly chopped chives or parsley before serving for a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast. It’s like a party for the eyes and taste buds!
Now, let your creativity flow and have fun with these variations! Each twist brings something unique to the table, ensuring you’ll create a dish that everyone will love. If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, check out our easy-to-follow storage tips for make-ahead meals for your next gathering!
Make Ahead Options
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 2 days in advance—just store it in the refrigerator before baking. To keep the potatoes from becoming watery, ensure the hash browns are fully thawed beforehand. When ready to serve, simply sprinkle the prepared topping over the mixture and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly. This make-ahead strategy not only saves you time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Storage Tips for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container, and they will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat individually in the microwave for a quick, comforting meal.
Freezer: You can freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes for up to 2 months. To do so, assemble but do not bake, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap before storing in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen dish in the fridge overnight. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes until heated through, ensuring the top remains crispy.
Make-Ahead Tips: For convenience, feel free to prepare your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes a day or two ahead of time, just be sure to cover and refrigerate before baking!
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best frozen hash browns for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for frozen hash browns that are grated, without added ingredients. They should be slightly dry without clumping together. Avoid any that have dark or ice-covered patches, indicating freezer burn. For a fresher alternative, you can shred your own potatoes; just ensure to soak them in cold water to remove excess starch before using.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave in individual portions for a quick, satisfying meal. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend covering them with a damp paper towel while microwaving to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes! Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the dish in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
What if my Cheesy Funeral Potatoes turn out watery?
Very! A watery texture often results from insufficient thawing of the hash browns. Always defrost them completely in the refrigerator overnight to ensure even cooking. If you do find them watery, try baking them a little longer to help evaporate excess moisture or adding an extra layer of crushed cornflakes on top for added texture!
Are Cheesy Funeral Potatoes suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! To make them vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. You can also include vegetables like spinach or broccoli to enhance the nutritional value without compromising on deliciousness.
Can I make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to two days in advance! Assemble the dish but keep the topping separate until you’re ready to bake. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, add the cornflake topping and bake as instructed. This not only saves you time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cozy Up with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes That Delight Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the frozen hash browns in the refrigerator overnight to ensure they are fully thawed.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and softened cream cheese. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and grated onion, mixing until smooth.
- Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Carefully spoon the cheesy potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a zip-lock bag, crush the corn flakes into smaller pieces and mix with melted unsalted butter until coated. Apply the topping generously over the potato mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.