Funeral Potatoes: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for an Amazing Side Dish

Funeral Potatoes—an amazing ultimate potato casserole side dish—have become a beloved staple at gatherings and family functions. This comforting dish is often a highlight at potlucks and holidays alike, marked by its creamy texture and cheesy flavor. Originating from the Intermountain West, these delicious potatoes are called “funeral” because they are frequently served at post-funeral luncheons. However, their appeal extends far beyond somber occasions, making them perfect for any gathering.
You might be wondering what makes Funeral Potatoes so special. The rich combination of hash browns, cheese, and a crunchy topping creates a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons you’ll love this recipe, provide a breakdown of preparation and cooking times, and offer a detailed list of ingredients followed by step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, these potatoes are easy to whip up and guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Let’s dive deep into the world of Funeral Potatoes, showcasing all the delightful features that make it an essential side dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Funeral Potatoes are adored for various reasons, including their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors. Some key highlights include:
1. Simple Ingredients: Easily obtainable ingredients make this a breeze to prepare.
2. Quick to Prepare: This side dish can be assembled in under 30 minutes.
3. Creamy and Cheesy: The rich and gooey cheese combined with the crispy crunchy topping creates a delightful textural contrast.
4. Versatile: Perfect for large gatherings, barbecues, or holiday meals, making them a universal favorite.
5. Leftover Friendly: Tastes just as great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
6. Customizable: Easy to modify with your choice of add-ins, like veggies or spices.
These attributes come together to make Funeral Potatoes a dish that people will genuinely look forward to having at their meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Funeral Potatoes is straightforward, requiring minimal effort and time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the preparation and cooking times involved:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
This efficient time allocation allows you to dedicate more time to other delicious dishes while still serving up a delightful casserole.

Ingredients

– 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup corn flakes, crushed (for topping)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Funeral Potatoes can be a fun and fulfilling cooking experience. Follow this easy step-by-step guide:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Add Potatoes: Stir in the frozen hash browns until they are evenly coated.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Onion: Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped onion if using.
5. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything until well combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, combine crushed corn flakes and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the flakes are evenly coated.
8. Add Topping: Sprinkle the corn flake mixture over the hash brown mixture in an even layer.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
10. Cool Slightly: Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
These steps guide you through preparing these amazing Funeral Potatoes, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

How to Serve

Serving Funeral Potatoes can be just as enjoyable as preparing them. Here are some tips to elevate the experience:
1. Serving Dish: Use a large, decorative serving dish to showcase the casserole.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for balance.
3. Slice Generously: Offer generous portions, allowing guests to help themselves for seconds.
4. Plan for Leftovers: Prepare extra because guests will likely want to take some home!
5. Exciting Variations: Consider offering spice alternatives, such as jalapeños or bacon bits, for added flavor.
Funeral Potatoes are not only a comforting side but also an adaptable dish that can fit into any meal. Enjoy every bite!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh sour cream and high-quality cheese.
– Don’t Skip the Topping: The crunchy cornflake topping gives an essential texture contrast and should not be omitted.
– Serve it Right: Pair with a tangy salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole.
– Enjoy It Fresh: While this dish keeps well, it is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum gooey goodness.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to get creative with your Funeral Potatoes! Here are some delicious variations to consider:
1. Loaded Funeral Potatoes: Add cooked bacon bits and green onions for a loaded version that adds a savory punch.
2. Veggie-Packed Option: Mix in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a healthier spin.
3. Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an exciting spicy flavor.
4. Gourmet Touch: Use Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a gourmet twist.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep leftover Funeral Potatoes tightly covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. They will be good for 3-4 days.
– Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Simply bake directly from the freezer, adding extra cooking time as needed.

Special Equipment

To prepare Funeral Potatoes, a few essential tools will come in handy:
– Large mixing bowl
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Mixing spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Aluminum foil (if covering while baking)

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce if you’re looking for an alternative.
Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
You can, but it will require cooking, peeling, and shredding the potatoes first, which adds extra steps.
What if I want a gluten-free version?
Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version, and use gluten-free corn flakes for the topping.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken soup, and just ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Funeral Potatoes provide a comforting and delicious side dish that everyone can enjoy. With their rich, creamy texture and cheesy goodness, they are bound to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Their versatility allows for various adaptations, ensuring that this recipe can cater to a multitude of tastes. Whether served at a holiday feast or a casual dinner, this ultimate potato casserole is sure to become a favorite for years to come.

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