Funeral Potato Recipe: If there’s one dish that screams comfort food, it’s the beloved funeral potatoes. This classic casserole is creamy, cheesy, crunchy, and downright irresistible. But what makes it special isn’t just the taste—it’s the story behind the name and how it became such a staple in American households.
So, what are funeral potatoes exactly? At their core, they’re a potato casserole made with shredded potatoes, a creamy sauce (often sour cream and cream of chicken soup), a hefty amount of cheese, and a crunchy topping like cornflakes or breadcrumbs. The result is a dish that’s warm, hearty, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Now, why the name “funeral potatoes”? Traditionally, this dish became a go-to comfort meal served at gatherings after funerals, especially in Mormon communities. The reason is simple—it’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and serves a large group. Over time, the dish outgrew its association with somber events and became a favorite at holidays, potlucks, barbecues, and family dinners.
Today, funeral potatoes are enjoyed everywhere, and each family puts their own twist on the recipe. Some like it extra cheesy, while others add bacon or jalapeños for a little kick. No matter how you make it, one thing is certain—this casserole never disappoints.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfection, and even fun variations to make the recipe truly your own. Whether you’re making it for a potluck, a holiday feast, or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe will become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of funeral potatoes lies in their simple, accessible ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your pantry or fridge. Let’s break down the essentials, optional add-ons, and a few substitutes for dietary needs.
Core Ingredients
- Frozen hash browns (shredded or diced – 30 oz bag works best)
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, about 10.5 oz)
- Sour cream (2 cups for creaminess)
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded)
- Butter (½ cup, melted)
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped – optional but adds flavor)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Topping of choice (2 cups cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or crushed potato chips mixed with melted butter)
Optional Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- Bacon bits – adds a smoky, savory touch
- Green onions or chives – for freshness
- Jalapeños or green chilies – for a spicy kick
- Parmesan cheese – for extra cheesiness
- Garlic powder or paprika – for depth of flavor
Substitutes for Dietary Needs
- Cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken (vegetarian option)
- Plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream (lighter version)
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for topping
- Vegan cheese and plant-based sour cream for dairy-free version
These ingredient options make funeral potatoes versatile and customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, tailoring to dietary needs, or just spicing things up, this casserole adapts beautifully.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Funeral Potatoes
Ready to whip up this cheesy comfort dish? Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a bubbling, golden casserole ready to serve in no time.
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
First things first, thaw your frozen hash browns. You don’t want them rock-solid when mixing; otherwise, they’ll release too much water while baking. Spread them on a baking sheet or leave them in the fridge overnight to thaw.
Next, chop your onion finely (if using) and shred your cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded cheese works, but freshly grated melts smoother and tastes better.
Finally, crush your topping—whether you’re using cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or chips. Toss them with a bit of melted butter so they bake up golden and crunchy.
Step 2: Mixing the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Melted butter
- Onion
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, etc.)
Stir until smooth and creamy. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. Once your sauce is ready, add the thawed hash browns and mix until every potato is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Layering and Topping
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the potato mixture evenly inside. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Sprinkle your prepared topping (buttery cornflakes, breadcrumbs, or chips) evenly across the casserole.
This step is what makes funeral potatoes truly crave-worthy—the contrast of creamy filling and crispy topping is unbeatable.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top. If the topping starts browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
When done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes slicing easier.
Now you’ve got yourself a crowd-pleasing dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and crunchy all at once.
Tips for Perfect Funeral Potatoes
Even though funeral potatoes are simple, a few tricks can take your casserole from good to unforgettable.
Getting the Texture Right
The key is balancing creaminess with structure. Too much liquid, and you’ll end up with a soggy mess. Too little, and it will feel dry. The hash browns should be coated but not swimming in sauce.
Crispy Topping Secrets
Always mix your topping with melted butter before sprinkling—it helps achieve that golden crunch. If you want extra crispiness, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don’t skip thawing the potatoes. Frozen hash browns release too much water.
- Avoid low-fat cheese—it won’t melt as well.
- Don’t overbake, or the casserole may dry out.
With these tips, your funeral potatoes will always come out rich, creamy, and perfectly crispy on top.
Variations of Funeral Potato Recipe
One of the best things about funeral potatoes is that the recipe is incredibly versatile. While the classic version is loved by many, you can easily tweak it to fit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or simply to add a little excitement to the traditional dish. Let’s dive into some popular variations.
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Version
If you’re a cheese lover, this one’s for you. The classic recipe already includes cheddar, but you can take it up a notch by adding a blend of cheeses. Try combining cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a creamy, melty, gooey dish that stretches with every scoop.
Some cooks like to sprinkle an extra layer of cheese on top, right under the crunchy topping. This creates a two-layer texture—gooey cheese just beneath the golden crust. If you want to make it more indulgent, add a layer of Velveeta for extra creaminess.
Spicy Funeral Potatoes
Love a little heat? Spice up your casserole by adding diced jalapeños, green chilies, or a dash of hot sauce. Pepper jack cheese is also a great substitute for regular cheddar if you want that extra kick.
For a Tex-Mex twist, mix in taco seasoning with the creamy base and top with crushed tortilla chips instead of cornflakes. It transforms the dish into a bold, zesty version that’s perfect for fiestas or game-day spreads.
Healthier Alternatives
If you want to make this comfort food a little lighter without sacrificing flavor, there are a few smart swaps you can make:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein and fewer calories.
- Substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup for a vegetarian version.
- Go for a reduced-fat cheese blend to cut back on fat while keeping it cheesy.
- Swap the buttery cornflake topping with whole-grain breadcrumbs or a mix of oats and Parmesan for a lighter crunch.
These variations prove that funeral potatoes don’t have to be one-size-fits-all. You can adapt the recipe to suit your cravings, whether you want extra cheesy indulgence, bold spice, or a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions
Funeral potatoes are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right dishes can turn a simple casserole into a complete feast. Whether you’re planning for a family dinner, a holiday table, or a potluck, here are some great serving ideas.
Perfect Side Dishes
Because funeral potatoes are rich and hearty, they pair beautifully with lighter main dishes. Some classic pairings include:
- Roast chicken or turkey – balances the creaminess of the casserole.
- Ham – the saltiness of ham complements the cheesy potatoes perfectly.
- Grilled or baked fish – a lighter protein to keep the meal balanced.
- Green salads – fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette cut through the richness.
Vegetables like roasted carrots, green beans, or steamed broccoli also make excellent companions.
Serving at Gatherings
Funeral potatoes are ideal for crowds and gatherings. They can be prepared in large baking dishes, kept warm easily, and served buffet-style. You can even make mini portions in muffin tins, creating single-serve bites that are perfect for potlucks and parties.
When serving at holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this dish holds its own alongside stuffing, gravy, and cranberry sauce. For Easter, it pairs wonderfully with glazed ham.
Portion Sizes
A standard 9×13-inch dish of funeral potatoes serves about 12 people as a side dish. If you’re making it as a main course, expect it to feed around 6–8. When preparing for large events, doubling the recipe is always a safe bet—this dish disappears quickly!
Whether as a side or centerpiece, funeral potatoes have a way of making every table feel warm and inviting.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
One of the best things about funeral potatoes is that they’re just as delicious the next day. In fact, some would argue they taste even better after the flavors have had time to settle. Here’s how to store and reheat them properly.
Refrigeration Tips
- Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This keeps the potatoes creamy without drying out.
Freezing for Later
Funeral potatoes also freeze beautifully. To freeze:
- Assemble the casserole but don’t add the topping yet.
- Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.
You can also freeze leftovers, but keep in mind that the topping may lose some crunch when reheated.
Best Ways to Reheat
- Oven method (best option): Reheat covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.
- Microwave method (quick option): Works in a pinch, but the topping may not stay crispy. Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Air fryer method (small portions): Great for reheating a single serving while keeping the topping crunchy. Heat at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes.
By following these methods, you can enjoy your funeral potatoes fresh, crispy, and creamy every time.
Funeral Potatoes for Special Occasions
Though their name might suggest otherwise, funeral potatoes are perfect for celebrations, holidays, and casual dinners alike. Let’s explore how they fit into different occasions.
Holiday Comfort Food
At Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter, this casserole makes a wonderful side dish. It complements roasted meats, balances heavy gravies, and adds a cheesy, cozy element to the holiday table. Some families even consider it as essential as mashed potatoes or stuffing.
Potlucks and Family Gatherings
Because they’re affordable, easy to prepare in bulk, and universally loved, funeral potatoes are a potluck hero. You can prepare them ahead, bake right before serving, and watch the dish vanish before your eyes.
For family gatherings, this casserole feels like a warm hug—it’s comforting, filling, and perfect for feeding both kids and adults.
Weeknight Dinner Option
Surprisingly, funeral potatoes aren’t just for big events. You can easily make them for a weeknight dinner by pairing them with a simple protein and salad. If you want to turn them into a one-dish meal, stir in cooked chicken, ground beef, or sausage before baking.
No matter the occasion, funeral potatoes are a reminder that food has the power to bring people together.
FAQs about Funeral Potato Recipe
Can I Make Funeral Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just wait to add the topping until right before baking so it stays crispy.
How Do I Keep the Topping Crispy?
The secret is in the butter. Mix your topping with melted butter before sprinkling it on the casserole. If reheating, uncover the dish in the last few minutes to crisp it back up.
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, but it’s a little more work. Peel and shred fresh potatoes, then soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry before using. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes may take a bit longer to bake.
Can I Make a Meatier Version of Funeral Potatoes?
Definitely! Adding cooked bacon, diced ham, shredded chicken, or ground beef turns this side dish into a hearty main course.
What’s the Best Cheese to Use?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice because it provides bold flavor, but mixing in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack adds creaminess and variety.
Conclusion
Funeral potatoes may have a somber name, but they’re truly one of the most comforting, crowd-pleasing casseroles you can make. With their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, they’ve earned a permanent spot in holiday feasts, potlucks, and family dinners.
The best part? They’re endlessly customizable—you can go classic, extra cheesy, spicy, or even lightened-up depending on your mood. Pair them with roasted meats, bring them to gatherings, or simply enjoy them as a cozy weeknight dinner.
Next time you need a dish that’s easy, filling, and guaranteed to disappear fast, this funeral potato recipe will be your go-to.
