Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns: A Comforting Classic

ByEmma

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying goodness of funeral potatoes with hashbrowns. This beloved casserole is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and yes, even funerals—hence the name. But don’t let the somber title fool you; this dish is all about warmth, nostalgia, and bringing people together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress.

Contents

What Are Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral potatoes are a classic American casserole made with shredded hashbrowns, a creamy sauce, cheese, and a crispy topping. The dish gets its name from its frequent appearance at post-funeral gatherings, where its comforting nature provides solace during difficult times. But really, it’s perfect for any occasion—weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or just because you’re craving something hearty.

The beauty of funeral potatoes lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Want to add some bacon or swap out the cheese? Go for it! This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make the ultimate funeral potatoes with hashbrowns:

  • 1 (30 oz) package of frozen shredded hashbrowns (thawed)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat for maximum creaminess)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar works wonders)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (optional, but highly recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes or potato chips (for the topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for the topping)

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, skip thawing the hashbrowns. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, shredded cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should be creamy and well-incorporated.

Pro Tip: Taste the mixture before baking. If you feel it needs more seasoning, add a pinch more salt or garlic powder.

3. Transfer to the Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring an even layer for consistent baking.

4. Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes (or potato chips) with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This step is crucial—it adds that irresistible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If you’re using frozen hashbrowns, you may need to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Pro Tip: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!

6. Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

Funeral potatoes are a side dish that can easily steal the show. Pair them with:

  • Roasted ham or turkey for a hearty meal.
  • Green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
  • Dinner rolls for soaking up every last bit of cheesy goodness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick comfort food fix.
  • Freezing: Funeral potatoes freeze well! Bake as directed, let cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Why This Dish Is a Keeper

Funeral potatoes with hashbrowns are more than just a recipe—they’re a tradition. They remind us of family, togetherness, and the power of food to comfort and heal. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them on a quiet night at home, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those hashbrowns and get cooking. Your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you.

Pro Tip: Double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd. Trust me, it’ll disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”

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