The Ultimate Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe: An Easy Hashbrown Casserole for Any Gathering

There are some dishes that transcend a simple meal and become a true celebration of comfort and togetherness. Our easy, comforting recipe for Funeral Potatoes is exactly that – a classic side dish, perfectly suited for large gatherings and holiday feasts. This irresistible hashbrown casserole, made with just a few simple ingredients, consistently earns its title as a crowd-pleasing favorite thanks to its creamy, cheesy interior and satisfyingly crispy topping. It’s a dish that brings people together, no matter the occasion.

For nearly a decade, this cheesy potato casserole has been a star in my own home, a reliable hit that never fails to delight. Its undeniable appeal makes it a staple for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner, cherished for its ability to feed many and satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become such a beloved tradition in countless households.

What Are Funeral Potatoes? Unpacking the Name of this Beloved Casserole

The name “Funeral Potatoes” might sound a bit solemn, but rest assured, the dish itself is anything but! This iconic casserole earns its unique moniker from its historical popularity at Mormon funeral luncheons and other large community gatherings, particularly in the Western United States. Its appeal lies in its practicality: it’s easy to prepare in advance, travels well, and can generously serve a big crowd – making it ideal for events where comfort food is paramount. However, don’t let the name limit your perception; this dish is a delicious addition to family dinners, potlucks, holiday celebrations, and any special occasion where a hearty, comforting side is welcome.

While I previously shared a fantastic recipe for slow cooker funeral potatoes (perfect for on-the-go convenience), this recipe focuses on the oven-baked version. Both are undeniably delicious, but I find the oven-baked method gives the buttery cornflake topping an unparalleled crispiness that truly elevates the dish. It’s that golden, crunchy layer contrasting with the creamy potatoes that makes this iteration truly special.

Why You’ll Adore This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

1. The Ultimate Side Dish Versatility: These cheesy funeral potatoes are the perfect companion for holiday dinners, special occasions, busy weeknight family meals, and any large gathering you can imagine. They pair beautifully with everything from roasted ham to grilled chicken, making them a versatile star on any menu.
2. Pure Comfort Food Bliss: Dive into a bowl of the ultimate comfort! This casserole is incredibly creamy, wonderfully cheesy, and deeply satisfying with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, evoking feelings of nostalgia and home.
3. Effortless Preparation: Don’t let its impressive flavor fool you – this recipe is surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient, as it can be prepared ahead of time or even frozen for future enjoyment, taking stress out of entertaining.
4. Irresistible Textural Contrast: The signature crispy cornflake topping provides a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the smooth, creamy hash brown casserole nestled underneath. It’s this play of textures that makes each spoonful an absolute delight.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Funeral Potatoes

Creating this classic casserole requires a few staple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect creamy, cheesy, and crispy balance. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Hashbrowns: You’ll need approximately 1 ½ pounds of thawed hash browns. Cubed hashbrowns are traditionally used and provide a substantial texture. For best results, I recommend setting them in the fridge overnight to thaw slowly, or simply leaving them out on the counter for a few hours if you’re short on time. Ensure they are fully thawed to prevent a watery casserole.
• Cornflakes: These are essential for the iconic crunchy topping. While you can purchase pre-crushed cornflakes, I highly recommend crushing them yourself. The irregular shapes created by hand-crushing yield a more varied and therefore much crunchier topping, adding a fantastic textural element to the dish.
• Sour Cream: A good quality, thick sour cream is key for a rich and creamy base. Brands like Daisy offer excellent thickness and tang, contributing to the luxurious texture of the casserole. Avoid thin or watery sour cream, which can dilute the flavor and consistency.
• Can of Cream of Chicken Soup: This condensed soup forms the backbone of the creamy sauce. While other condensed soups can be used (like cream of mushroom or celery), cream of chicken consistently delivers the best flavor profile for this classic recipe, adding a savory depth without overpowering the potatoes and cheese.
• Cheese: For optimal flavor and melt, I highly recommend using sharp cheddar cheese. Grating it fresh from the block yourself is a game-changer. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting, resulting in a less creamy casserole. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey texture.
• Butter: You’ll need melted butter for two distinct components: a portion is incorporated into the hashbrown casserole base for richness, and another generous amount is mixed with the cornflake topping to make it golden brown and extra crispy in the oven.
• Seasonings: We keep it wonderfully simple with just a touch of onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the potatoes and cheese without overcomplicating the profile. Feel free to adjust to your taste.

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

Making this cheesy hashbrown casserole is incredibly straightforward, but a little preparation goes a long way. The most crucial step to remember is to ensure your hashbrowns are completely thawed before you begin. I typically place them in the fridge overnight, but if you’re in a pinch, a few hours on the counter will do the trick. Once thawed, let’s get cooking!

First, prepare your baking vessel. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set this aside until your mixture is ready.

Crafting the Creamy Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the full can of undiluted cream of chicken soup, the thick sour cream, and ½ cup of melted butter. Stir these ingredients thoroughly with a silicone spatula or a sturdy spoon until they are completely smooth and well combined. This forms the rich, creamy foundation of your casserole.

Next, season the creamy base. Add the salt, onion powder, and ground black pepper to the mixture. Fold them in gently until they are evenly distributed, ensuring every bite will be perfectly seasoned. Now, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the condensed soup and sour cream mixture, and fold it in until it’s thoroughly distributed. The cheese will add incredible flavor and melt beautifully into the sauce as it bakes.

Incorporating the Hashbrowns

With your smooth and cheesy base ready, it’s time to introduce the star ingredient: the thawed hashbrowns. Add the entire quantity of thawed hashbrowns to the bowl. Carefully fold the hashbrowns into the creamy base until all of the potato pieces are thoroughly coated in the rich mixture. Take your time with this step to ensure an even distribution.

Once the hashbrowns are fully coated, spread the potato and soup mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13 casserole dish. Make sure it’s spread from edge to edge to ensure consistent baking.

Creating the Signature Crunchy Topping

The crunchy topping is what makes funeral potatoes truly stand out. If you haven’t already, crush about 3 ½ cups of cornflakes until you have roughly 2 cups of irregularly shaped crushed cereal. As mentioned, while pre-crushed options exist, crushing them by hand (using a rolling pin in a plastic bag works great!) creates varying sizes that result in an extra satisfying crunch.

In a medium-sized bowl, melt the remaining ½ cup of butter. Add the crushed cornflakes to the melted butter and stir diligently to coat every piece of cereal in the rich butter. This ensures a golden, crispy, and flavorful topping. Evenly sprinkle this buttery cornflake mixture over the entire surface of the potato casserole. The goal is to cover it completely for maximum crunch.

Baking Your Cheesy Potato Casserole to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the uncovered baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-50 minutes, or until the casserole is gloriously hot and bubbly around the edges, and the cornflake topping has achieved a beautiful golden-brown crispness. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning of the topping.

Once baked, remove the funeral potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before scooping and serving. This brief resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny.

Storing and Reheating Your Funeral Potatoes

One of the many advantages of Funeral Potatoes is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prep or enjoying delicious leftovers. If you have any casserole remaining, you can conveniently store it right in the baking dish by wrapping it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. For smaller portions, transferring the leftovers to an airtight container might be a more efficient use of fridge space.

Fridge and Freezer Storage: This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you’re looking to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just ensure the casserole is completely chilled and cooled down to room temperature before freezing to maintain quality and prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave, heating in 60-second intervals until warmed through. For larger quantities or to restore some crispness to the topping, reheat the casserole in a covered dish in an oven preheated to 350ºF for about 30 minutes, or until it’s heated all the way through. A crucial tip: always place a cold baking dish into a cold oven, then preheat, to prevent thermal shock and potential cracking of your dish.

Plan Ahead: Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

Funeral Potatoes are fantastic for preparing in advance, which makes them a go-to for busy holidays or potlucks. Here’s how to do it:

To Make Ahead (for baking within 2 days):

1. Prepare the Casserole Base: Mix the soup, cheese, and hashbrown layer as directed in the recipe. You can use either thawed or even slightly frozen hashbrowns at this stage, as they will thaw further in the fridge.
2. Hold the Topping: Crucially, leave the cornflake topping off until you are ready to bake. This prevents it from becoming soggy during storage.
3. Refrigerate: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
4. Prepare for Baking: When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and allow it to warm at room temperature for at least 1 hour. This helps ensure even baking.
5. Add Topping: Just before placing it in the oven, prepare the buttery cornflake topping and sprinkle it evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake as Directed: Follow the baking instructions in the recipe, adding potentially an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since the casserole starts colder.

To Freeze (for longer storage):

1. Assemble the Base: Prepare the soup, cheese, and hashbrown layer, again using either thawed or frozen hashbrowns.
2. Topping Decision: Ideally, leave the topping off until you’re ready to bake. If you must freeze with the topping, be aware it won’t be as crispy after thawing and baking.
3. Wrap Tightly: Cover the casserole dish tightly with multiple layers of aluminum foil and then plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label and Freeze: Label with the date and contents, then place in the freezer.
5. Storage Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
6. Thawing Before Baking: For optimal results, allow the casserole to thaw completely overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
7. Preheat Safely: To prevent thermal shock and potential cracking of your dish, always place the thawed casserole dish into a cold oven before heating it to the specified temperature.
8. Bake as Directed: Bake according to recipe instructions. If baking from a partially frozen state, it will require significantly longer baking time (potentially 1.5-2 hours covered, then uncovered for the last 30 minutes with topping).

Perfecting Funeral Potatoes for Potlucks & Gatherings

Funeral potatoes are practically synonymous with potlucks, holidays, weddings, church gatherings, and yes, even actual funerals! Their crowd-pleasing nature makes them an ideal contribution. If you’re wondering how to expertly transport and serve this dish hot and fresh at your next event, here are some invaluable tips:

1. The “Make Ahead, Bake Later” Method: Prepare the casserole base (potatoes, soup, cheese) up to 2 days in advance, keeping the topping separate. Store it covered in the fridge. When you arrive at your gathering (or just before leaving home), add the buttered cornflake topping and bake as directed. You might need 50-60 minutes total, especially if starting from a chilled state. This ensures the freshest, crispiest topping.
2. The “Keep Warm” Carry: If you’re baking at home just before the event, invest in a good quality casserole carrier. These insulated bags are designed to keep hot dishes warm for hours, ensuring your funeral potatoes arrive at the perfect serving temperature. Alternatively, wrap the hot dish tightly in aluminum foil and then a thick towel.
3. Leverage Your Slow Cooker: For ultimate portability and sustained warmth, consider making slow cooker funeral potatoes. These can easily be plugged in at your destination and kept warm for hours, freeing up oven space and ensuring a perfectly hot side dish throughout the event.
4. Bake On-Site Strategy: If you have access to an oven at the potluck or gathering, prepare the casserole (without the topping) in advance. Once you arrive, add the topping and bake it fresh. Just be sure to factor in the 40-50 minute bake time (or potentially longer if the oven is shared or less powerful) when planning your arrival and serving time. Communicate with your host about oven availability if choosing this option.

Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions

While the classic Funeral Potatoes recipe is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Don’t hesitate to experiment with these variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

• Crispy Potato Chip Topping: For a different kind of crunch, many people love a crispy topping made from crushed potato chips instead of cornflakes. If you’d like to try this, simply substitute 2 cups of crushed plain potato chips for the cornflake topping. There’s no need to add extra butter, as potato chips already contain plenty of oil to ensure a golden, flavorful finish.
• Alternative Condensed Soups: Our recipe features cream of chicken soup for its classic savory profile, but you can certainly get creative with your condensed soup choice. This will subtly change the flavor, which can be a delicious twist! Consider using cream of celery soup for a lighter, more herbaceous note, cream of mushroom soup for an earthier depth, or even a condensed cheddar cheese soup for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. You can also explore homemade condensed soup alternatives.
• Shredded Hashbrowns Option: If you prefer a finer, more integrated potato texture, you can easily make this funeral potatoes recipe with shredded hashbrowns instead of cubed. Simply substitute the cubed hashbrowns for an equivalent weight of shredded hashbrowns (approximately 1 ½ pounds, or two 12oz bags). The cooking time might remain similar, but the overall texture will be softer.
• Adding Diced Onions: To cater to a wide audience and particularly picky eaters, this recipe uses onion powder for a subtle onion flavor. However, if you know your crowd loves a more pronounced onion presence, feel free to sauté about ½ cup of finely diced yellow onion until softened and translucent, then add it to the casserole base mixture. It will add a wonderful aromatic depth.
• Topping Alternatives (Beyond Cornflakes): If cornflakes aren’t your preference, or you’re looking for something different, there are several delicious substitutes for the topping. Consider using buttered breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crunch), crispy fried onions (like those found for green bean casserole), or even crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery, salty finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Potatoes

More Delicious Side Dish Favorites You’ll Love

If you enjoy comforting and easy side dishes like our Funeral Potatoes, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes that are perfect for any meal:

• Crispy Parmesan Crusted Potatoes
• Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole
• Crock Pot Maple Glazed Carrots
• Slow Cooker Glazed Sweet Potatoes
• Swedish Pizza Salad
• Crack Corn Salad – Sweet and Savory Meals