The first time I tasted Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, I was at a family gathering, overwhelmed by laughter and the comforting aroma of familiar dishes. This creamy, cheesy casserole was unlike anything I had ever eaten—its crispy cornflake topping giving way to the soft, savory goodness beneath. Instantly, I knew I had discovered a recipe to cherish and share.
Perfect for potlucks or cozy family dinners, this hearty dish combines frozen hash browns, rich creamy soup, and an indulgent blend of cheese for a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more. What I love most about these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is their versatility; you can whip them up in just 15 minutes and have an easy crowd-pleaser ready to bake while you unwind.
So, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply seeking a homey comfort food that fills the heart and belly, let me guide you through this ultimate recipe.
Why are Cheesy Funeral Potatoes a must-try?
Unmatched Comfort: This dish brings warmth and joy to any gathering, instantly elevating your meal with its creamy, cheesy goodness.
Effortless Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can have everything mixed and ready for the oven, making it a perfect go-to for busy nights or last-minute guests.
Crowd Favorite: With rich flavors that satisfy both kids and adults alike, these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes will leave your family asking for seconds.
Crispy Top, Creamy Inside: The delightful contrast between the crunchy cornflakes and the luscious, cheesy inner layer is a culinary embrace for your taste buds.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or add your favorite mix-ins to personalize this dish to your liking.
Once you’ve tried these, you might just want to check out my creamy potato dishes for more inspiration!
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Ingredients
• A perfect mix for comfort!
- 1 bag frozen hash browns – Choose a brand with simple ingredients for the best flavor.
- 1 can creamy soup (cream of chicken or cream of mushroom) – Use low-sodium options for a healthier twist.
- 1 cup sour cream – Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded – Opt for sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted – Substitute with margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 cup corn flakes – For extra crunch, consider panko breadcrumbs as an alternative.
- salt to taste – Sea salt or kosher salt enhances the flavors beautifully.
- pepper to taste – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a touch of heat.
Try these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes for a comforting family favorite!
How to Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your casserole bakes evenly, reaching that delightful golden color on top while becoming bubbly underneath.
Combine the thawed hash browns, creamy soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and melted butter in a large bowl. Mix until all ingredients are lovingly blended together, creating a creamy and indulgent base.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to enhance the flavor, so sprinkle in the seasonings until it tastes just right to you!
Pour the potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly, ensuring every bite will capture that rich, cheesy essence.
Top your creation with corn flakes for a crispy layer. This crunchy topping adds texture and complements the soft interior beautifully.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to enjoy that perfect, mouthwatering color before you take it out.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a touch of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and delicious flavors.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers, and they can last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best result, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. This restores that delightful crispy topping.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours, as this can compromise food safety. Always store leftovers promptly!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the entire mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the thawed hash browns, creamy soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and melted butter, then refrigerate. To keep quality intact, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and sprinkle the corn flakes on top before placing it in the oven. Bake for the original 50 minutes and enjoy the same delicious results, effortlessly serving a comforting dish that tastes just as wonderful as if it were made fresh that day.
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious Cheesy Funeral Potatoes and make them uniquely yours!
Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream and butter with coconut cream and dairy-free margarine for a creamy vegan alternative that’s equally satisfying.
Loaded: Add cooked and crumbled bacon, diced green onions, and a sprinkle of jalapeños for a loaded twist that takes this dish over the top!
Vegetable Boost: Mix in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms to sneak in some veggies, enhancing your dish’s nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced green chiles or cayenne pepper for a spicy dimension that excites the taste buds and kicks things up a notch.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like chives or parsley before baking for a burst of freshness and color that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors.
Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations such as pepper jack or gouda for a flavor twist sure to enchant cheese lovers!
Crust Variation: Instead of corn flakes, try crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a unique crunch that adds depth to every bite.
Sweet Addition: Incorporate some caramelized onions for a hint of sweetness and a wonderful layer of flavor that enriches the overall experience.
Let your creativity shine as you customize these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes for every occasion!
What to Serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Creating a full meal around this creamy delight is a breeze and elevates your dining experience to new heights.
Roast Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken provides a savory contrast that perfectly complements the cheesy richness of the potatoes.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a fresh, crisp element, balancing the dish’s creaminess while introducing vibrant color to your plate.
Garden Salad: A light, tangy salad tossed with vinaigrette enhances the meal with a refreshing crunch, brightening each bite of comfort food.
Grilled Asparagus: The smoky char of grilled asparagus contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of cheesy potatoes, making for a delightful duo.
Homemade Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread lets everyone savor those leftover cheesy goodness from their plates, complementing the creamy flavors perfectly.
Red Wine: A glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, provides an excellent pairing, enhancing the meal’s overall richness.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a silky chocolate mousse that satisfies your sweet tooth while balancing the savory potatoes’ richness.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce brings a sweet-tart note that cuts through the creaminess, adding an unexpected twist to this comforting dish.
By combining these suggestions, your Cheesy Funeral Potatoes will shine even brighter on the dinner table!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Perfect Hash Browns: Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed before mixing to prevent excess moisture, which can make the dish soggy.
Creamy Soup Choice: Opt for cream of chicken for a richer flavor or use cream of mushroom for a vegetarian variation without compromising creaminess.
Cheese Quality: Using freshly shredded cheddar can enhance the texture and flavor compared to pre-shredded options, as they often contain anti-caking agents.
Corn Flake Crunch: For extra crispiness, toast the corn flakes lightly before adding them on top—this step makes a wonderful flavor difference!
Seasoning Balance: Don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before baking; adjusting salt and pepper at this stage ensures the cheesy goodness is well-seasoned.
Leftovers Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture and warmth.
Enjoy making these Cheesy Funeral Potatoes your way!
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best hash browns for my Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for hash browns that are made from whole potatoes with minimal additives. I recommend choosing a brand that has a simple ingredient list so you can enjoy the authentic flavor. Thaw them completely before you start, as this helps prevent excess moisture in your dish.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing. For the best taste, I encourage reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes to revive that crispy topping.
Can I freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you have leftovers or want to prepare them ahead. Simply portion them into freezer-safe containers, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden.
What if my Cheesy Funeral Potatoes turn out too dry?
If your dish comes out dry, it might be due to overbaking. To prevent this, ensure you monitor it during the last few minutes of baking. If it does happen, you can add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back some moisture without compromising flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free corn flakes and substituting the creamy soup with a gluten-free version. For allergies, be cautious of the dairy in sour cream and cheese; I often use a dairy-free yogurt and almond cheese as alternatives. This way, everyone can enjoy these indulgent Cheesy Funeral Potatoes!
Indulgent Cheesy Funeral Potatoes: The Comfort Food Winner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the thawed hash browns, creamy soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and melted butter in a large bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the potato mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top your creation with corn flakes for a crispy layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.