Cheesy Funeral Potatoes
If you’ve been around potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday tables, chances are you’ve seen a bubbling pan of golden, crispy, cheesy potatoes passed around with excitement. Known affectionately as Funeral Potatoes, this iconic casserole has earned its name for one simple reason: it always shows up when people need comfort most. Whether it’s a family brunch, a celebration, or a moment when a warm dish simply feels right, this recipe delivers every single time.
Loaded with creamy sauce, soft potatoes, rich cheese, and a buttery crunchy topping, Funeral Potatoes are the perfect blend of texture and flavor. The best part? They’re unbelievably easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole transforms into a warm, comforting side dish that works with almost any meal.
Today, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this beloved classic — from what makes it special to how to prepare it, store it, and customize it — while keeping the original recipe exactly as it is.
What Makes Funeral Potatoes So Popular?
There’s something magical about the combination of melted cheese, creamy sauce, and tender hash browns baked under a buttery, crispy topping. This dish strikes the perfect balance of cozy and indulgent. It’s rich without being overwhelming, hearty without being heavy, and familiar in a way that instantly feels like home.
Funeral Potatoes also have a reputation for feeding a crowd. One big pan serves many, and the ingredients are budget-friendly, easy to find, and require no fancy techniques. From holiday dinners like Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving to birthdays and neighborhood gatherings, this casserole always fits right in.
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Recipe
This is the full recipe — unchanged, exactly as you provided it.
What You’ll Need:
1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup melted butter (plus 2 tbsp for topping)
1/2 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
2 cups crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers (for topping)
🔥 How to Make It:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, and 1/2 cup melted butter. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Spread it out: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Make it crunchy: Toss the crushed cornflakes (or crackers) with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown on top.
Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Then grab a big scoop and enjoy that crispy-cheesy perfection!
Tips for the Best Funeral Potatoes
To take this casserole from delicious to unforgettable, here are some helpful tips:
• Thaw your hash browns completely. This ensures they mix evenly and bake more smoothly.
• Use sharp cheddar for more flavor. Mild works too, but sharp cheddar gives that extra cheesy punch.
• Add the right amount of seasoning. Potatoes need salt. Don’t be shy, but don’t overdo it — taste the mix before baking.
• Don’t cover the dish while baking. Keeping it uncovered ensures the topping becomes perfectly golden and crunchy.
Optional Add-Ins for Customizing
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Try adding:
• Cooked, crumbled bacon
• Diced ham
• Chopped green onions
• Garlic powder or paprika
• Extra cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, pepper jack)
These additions can turn the casserole into a fuller meal or give it a whole new twist.
Serving Ideas: What to Eat with Funeral Potatoes
Funeral Potatoes pair well with almost anything. Serve them alongside:
• Baked or roasted chicken
• Ham (especially holiday ham)
• Grilled steak
• Pork chops
• Turkey
• Brunch items like scrambled eggs or sausages
Their creamy richness complements a variety of proteins and vegetable sides.
How to Store, Make Ahead, or Freeze
If you’re planning ahead or dealing with leftovers, here are some helpful guidelines:
Make Ahead:
Assemble everything except the topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add topping right before baking.
Leftovers:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Freezing:
Assemble without the topping. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake as instructed.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Place in Your Collection
This Cheesy Funeral Potatoes recipe is simple, satisfying, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. With creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and a crunchy golden topping, every bite feels comforting and nostalgic. Whether you serve it at a family event or enjoy it as a weeknight side dish, it never disappoints.
