Cheesy Potatoes or Funeral Potatoes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Side Dish

Description

Cheesy Potatoes, also known as Funeral Potatoes, are a classic comfort food dish made with shredded potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping. This dish is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals. Rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Main Dish

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian option)

• 1 (8 oz) container sour cream

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

• 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Mix the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Stir until everything is well incorporated.

3. Transfer to Baking Dish

• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

4. Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

• Sprinkle the buttery cornflakes evenly over the potato mixture.

5. Bake

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

6. Serve

• Let the cheesy potatoes cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

• Garnish with chopped green onions or extra shredded cheese if desired.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup)

Tips & Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.

• Add Protein: Mix in diced ham or cooked bacon for a heartier dish.

• Extra Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack.

• Crispier Topping: For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Why Are They Called Funeral Potatoes?

This dish earned its name because it’s a popular comfort food often served at post-funeral gatherings in the American Midwest. Its easy preparation and crowd-friendly taste make it a go-to dish for potlucks and family events.

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Enjoy Your Cheesy Potatoes!

This rich, creamy, and crispy-topped dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you call them Cheesy Potatoes or Funeral Potatoes, they’re always a comforting favorite!