Funeral Potatoes: The Ultimate Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Introduction to Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes, also known as cheesy hash brown casserole, are a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. This dish, packed with creamy goodness and cheesy flavor, is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this easy recipe will guide you through making a delicious casserole that everyone will love.
A Personal Story Behind My Funeral Potatoes Journey
Growing up, funeral potatoes were a staple at family gatherings and special occasions. I remember the comforting aroma wafting through the house as my grandma prepared this dish. It was always a crowd-pleaser, and nothing brought our family together quite like enjoying a warm serving of cheesy hash browns. The recipe has been passed down through generations, each adding their own twist, but the heart of the dish remains the same: love and togetherness.
What Makes This Funeral Potatoes Recipe Special?
What sets this funeral potatoes recipe apart is its simplicity and the rich combination of flavors. The creamy sour cream and cream of chicken soup blend perfectly with the crispy corn flakes topping, creating a delightful texture contrast. Additionally, the use of thawed hash browns makes preparation a breeze, allowing you to whip up this dish in no time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of main dishes, making it a go-to side for any occasion.
The Full Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 30 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 10 tablespoons butter, divided and melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups corn flakes cereal
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen hash browns in the fridge overnight or in the oven at 200°F for about 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, salt, pepper, and dried onion. Mix until well combined.
- Add the thawed hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Spoon the mixture into a 9×13” baking pan.
- For the topping, place the corn flakes in a large ziplock bag and gently crush them with your hands or a rolling pin until they are in small pieces.
- Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes, mixing well. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the baking pan.
- Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. For an extra crispy topping, consider broiling for the last few minutes of baking.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with baked ham or your favorite main course.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make a fantastic side dish for baked ham, roasted chicken, or even grilled steak. You can also elevate the dish by adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Potatoes
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh hash browns can be used, but ensure they are cooked before mixing into the casserole for the best texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze funeral potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just ensure it’s well wrapped. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Enjoy this comforting and cheesy hash brown casserole that’s perfect for any meal!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-65 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 8
Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 10 tablespoons butter, divided and melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups corn flakes cereal
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen hash browns in the fridge overnight or in the oven at 200°F for about 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, salt, pepper, and dried onion. Mix until well combined.
- Add the thawed hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. Spoon the mixture into a 9x13'' baking pan.
- For the topping, place the corn flakes in a large ziplock bag and gently crush them with your hands or a rolling pin until they are in small pieces.
- Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes, mixing well. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the baking pan.
- Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. For an extra crispy topping, consider broiling for the last few minutes of baking.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with baked ham or your favorite main course.