Introduction
When comfort food calls, cheesy funeral potatoes answer with gooey richness, a golden topping, and a backstory that’s as warm as the dish itself. This casserole isn’t just some nostalgic side dish tucked away on the Sunday dinner table. It’s the show-stealer at holidays, potlucks, and—yes—funeral gatherings, too.
But don’t let the name scare you off. In fact, it reflects just how beloved this dish is in times of joy and sorrow. Simple to make, endlessly customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike, cheesy hashbrown casserole (as it’s also known) might just become your new favorite side.
So let’s dig in—from the history behind the name to why these creamy potatoes have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of so many.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for Classic Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
When it comes to cheesy funeral potatoes, the magic is in the mix. It’s not about fancy ingredients—it’s about the way they come together to create something warm, creamy, and unforgettable. Here’s a closer look at the essential building blocks of this iconic comfort food.
Must-Have Ingredients for Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
To whip up a batch of these golden beauties, you’ll need:
- Frozen hash browns – Shredded or cubed, these save time and make prep a breeze. Just don’t forget to thaw them!
- Sour cream – Adds a rich, tangy creaminess that binds everything together.
- Cheddar cheese – The sharper, the better. It gives the casserole its gooey, cheesy personality.
- Cream of chicken soup – The classic choice for moisture and depth. If you’re after a cleaner version, try this healthier alternative.
- Butter – Melted and mixed in for that luscious texture—and later used to crisp up the topping.
- Onion or onion powder – For that subtle savory kick.
- Salt and pepper – To keep flavors in balance.
- Cornflakes – Crushed and sprinkled on top for that signature golden crunch.
Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins Worth Trying
Got some leftovers or extra ingredients lying around? This casserole is wildly adaptable. Try adding:
- Chopped ham or bacon for a smoky twist
- Diced green onions or chives for freshness
- Jalapeños or crushed red pepper if you like a little heat
- Cream of mushroom or celery soup for variety
For a crunch alternative, skip the cornflakes and go with crushed Ritz crackers, potato chips, or even breadcrumbs or fried onions.
How to Make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes from Scratch STEP BY STEP
Making cheesy funeral potatoes isn’t just easy—it’s downright therapeutic. This creamy, golden-baked dish is simple enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to hold its own on a holiday spread. Whether you’re new to casseroles or a seasoned kitchen pro, this step-by-step guide will walk you through every delicious move.
Gather Your Cheesy Potato Casserole Ingredients
Before you begin, check that your hash browns are fully thawed. This is non-negotiable—frozen potatoes will mess with the baking time and texture.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 30 oz frozen hash browns, thawed (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or a homemade alternative)
- 10 tbsp melted butter (divided)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried minced onion
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using butter or nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together:
- Sour cream
- Cream of chicken soup
- 6 tablespoons of melted butter
- Salt, pepper, and dried onion
- Fold in the hash browns and cheddar cheese. Stir until everything’s thoroughly coated.
- Spread the cheesy potato mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, crush your cornflakes (a zip-top bag and rolling pin work like a charm). Mix in the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter until well coated.
- Sprinkle the buttery flakes over the casserole. Make sure it’s covered edge-to-edge for that perfect golden crunch.
- Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Optional Slow Cooker Version
If you’re short on oven space—hello, holiday season!—you can also cook cheesy funeral potatoes in a crockpot:
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray
- Add the mixture (skip the cornflakes for now)
- Cook on LOW for 4–6 hours
- Add the topping just before serving
It’s a brilliant hands-off method that saves space and still delivers comfort in every bite.
Want a lighter twist? Use this healthy cream soup substitute for a wholesome, preservative-free version.
Nutrition Facts of Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
While cheesy funeral potatoes are a total crowd-pleaser, they’re not exactly the lightest dish on the table. With ingredients like sour cream, cheddar cheese, and butter, this hash brown casserole leans toward the indulgent side—perfect for special occasions, not everyday meals.
A standard serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- 280–350 calories
- 7–10g protein
- 18–22g fat (with 10–12g saturated fat)
- 600–700mg sodium
- 15–20g carbs
Want to make them a little lighter? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, swap in reduced-fat cheese, and opt for a homemade soup substitute instead of canned versions, which are often high in sodium and additives.
For anyone avoiding gluten, simply use a gluten-free cream soup and make sure your cornflake topping is certified gluten-free.
Remember, everything in moderation! These comfort food potatoes are best served with love—and maybe a green salad on the side.
FAQs About Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
Why are they called funeral potatoes?
Cheesy funeral potatoes earned their name because they’re traditionally served at after-funeral luncheons, especially in the LDS (Mormon) community. They’re comforting, easy to make in large batches, and offer a warm hug in casserole form.
Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the entire dish (minus the topping) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the topping and slide it into the oven. This make-ahead method saves serious time during the holidays.
Can cheesy potato casserole be frozen?
Yes! Freeze it unbaked (without the topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add your crunchy topping, and bake as usual.
Are cheesy funeral potatoes gluten-free?
They can be. Just use gluten-free cream soup and certified gluten-free cornflakes or topping alternatives. Always double-check labels.
What can I use instead of cornflakes?
Try crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even fried onions. For more topping ideas, check out this guide on casserole toppings.
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