The Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe

Funeral potatoes casserole with crispy cornflake topping and creamy potato filling, served on a rustic wooden table
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Funeral potatoes are a rich, cheesy potato casserole beloved across the Midwest and beyond. Known for their creamy texture and crunchy topping—usually corn flakes or crackers—these comforting potatoes are a must-have at potlucks, holidays, and yes, even funerals.

Despite their somber name, funeral potatoes are all about bringing people together around a warm, hearty dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers serious flavor with minimal fuss.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes funeral potatoes so special, the origin of their name, how to store them properly, tasty topping alternatives, and what to serve on the side. Ready to discover why this humble casserole is a timeless favorite?

The History Behind Funeral Potatoes

While funeral potatoes may sound unusual, the name comes from a longstanding tradition in Latter-day Saint (LDS) and Midwestern communities, where this dish is often served at funeral luncheons. It’s comforting, easy to prepare in large batches, and made with pantry staples—making it perfect for feeding grieving families and large crowds.

Over time, funeral potatoes became a staple at all sorts of gatherings, from holiday dinners and church potlucks to Sunday suppers. Their creamy base—typically made with hash browns, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup—paired with a crunchy topping, makes them one of the most crowd-pleasing casseroles out there.

Whether you know them as cheesy potatoes, hash brown casserole, or Mormon potatoes, one thing’s for sure: funeral potatoes are here to stay.

Ingredients for Classic Funeral Potatoes

To make a traditional 9×13-inch casserole dish of funeral potatoes, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 2 cups sour cream
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Crunchy Topping (Classic):

  • 2 cups crushed corn flakes
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika or cayenne for a little kick
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon or diced ham for extra protein
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Baked Funeral Potatoes served in a casserole dish, with crispy edges and garnished with parsley

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe


  • Author: promeatrecipes.com
  • Total Time: PT55M
  • Yield: 1012 1x

Description

Learn how to make funeral potatoes with this easy, cheesy recipe. Crunchy topping, creamy center, and comfort food perfection in just 5 simple steps!


Ingredients

Scale

Main Casserole:

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

  • 2 cups sour cream

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Topping:

  • 2 cups crushed corn flakes

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Combine hash browns, sour cream, soup, cheese, butter, onion, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

  • Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

  • Mix crushed corn flakes with melted butter and sprinkle on top.

  • Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden, crispy top.

 

  • Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

  • Prep Time: PT10M
  • Cook Time: PT45M
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Calories: 300–350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3–5 g
  • Sodium: 600–800 mg
  • Fat: 18–22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10–12 g
  • Fiber: 2–3 g
  • Protein: 6–8 g
  • Cholesterol: 40–50 mg

Keywords: Funeral Potatoes Recipe

How to Make Funeral Potatoes in 5 Easy Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, melted butter, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Spread in the Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly and smooth the top.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with 1/4 cup of melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the potatoes. This creates the iconic crispy finish funeral potatoes are known for.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Why Funeral Potatoes Deserve a Spot on Your Table

Whether you’re bringing a dish to a potluck, feeding a crowd for the holidays, or just craving something warm and cheesy, funeral potatoes are the kind of side dish that never disappoints. They’re rich, creamy, crunchy on top, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes and pantry.

With just a few simple ingredients and five easy steps, you can whip up a comfort food classic that’s been passed down for generations. Once you try them, don’t be surprised if these cheesy potatoes become a go-to favorite at all your family gatherings.

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Funeral Potatoes FAQs

How long do funeral potatoes last in the fridge?

Funeral potatoes will keep in the fridge for 3 to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Why are funeral potatoes called that?

They’re traditionally served at funeral luncheons, especially in Midwestern and LDS communities, where comfort food is a key part of gathering and grieving.

What is a substitute for corn flakes on funeral potatoes?

No corn flakes? Try crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, panko breadcrumbs, or buttered bread crumbs for a similarly crispy topping.

What goes with funeral potatoes?

They pair beautifully with ham, roast chicken, meatloaf, or even a holiday roast. Add green beans, a fresh salad, or roasted carrots for balance.

How long do potatoes actually last?

Raw potatoes can last 2–3 months in a cool, dark pantry. Once cooked, like in funeral potatoes, they last 3–5 days refrigerated.

Do you cover cheesy potatoes?

Yes—cover with foil for the first 30–40 minutes to retain moisture, then uncover for 10–15 minutes to brown the topping.

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