If you have been searching for a dish that embodies comfort, warmth, and cheesy goodness all rolled into one, look no further than this Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe. This classic American casserole combines crispy hash browns with a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a perfectly crunchy cornflake crust. It’s the kind of side dish that brings people together, evoking memories of family gatherings and potlucks, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved staple in so many homes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to making this Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe so irresistibly delicious is in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from creamy textures to sharp, melty cheese, and that golden cornflake topping adds the perfect crunch and color.
- Frozen shredded hash browns (32 oz): These form the hearty base with crispy edges when baked.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): This brings creamy richness and depth of flavor, but you can swap it for vegetarian cream soups too.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tanginess and a smooth texture that makes every bite comforting.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Infuses the casserole with richness and moisture.
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups): The star ingredient for that gooey, melty, savory touch.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle onion flavor that enhances overall taste without overpowering.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and aroma to every spoonful.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and lifts all the flavors perfectly.
- Cornflakes, crushed (2 cups): The secret to a crisp, buttery topping that adds a wonderful crunch.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted, for topping): Helps the cornflake topping brown beautifully and adds extra flavor.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly with a nice crust.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture is where all the creamy, cheesy, and flavorful magic begins.
Step 3: Add the Hash Browns
Next, fold in your thawed shredded hash browns until every bit is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. This step is important because you want the potatoes to soak in all that wonderful cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Spread the potato mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until they’re well coated. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over the top, creating a golden crust that makes this casserole so special.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake your casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling with cheesy delight and the cornflake topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let everything set.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped green onions or small strips of crispy bacon on top right before serving. The fresh bite of green onions or smoky bacon complements the rich, cheesy layers perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots, or alongside your favorite juicy roasted chicken or ham. The creamy potatoes balance out lean proteins and add comfort to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with extra cheddar and crushed cornflakes, then broil them for a minute until bubbly and crispy. This makes a charming presentation for dinner parties or holidays.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days and tastes just as delightful when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It’s perfect to stash away for up to 2 months when you need a comforting meal in a pinch.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge, then warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through and the topping regains its crispiness. You can also microwave smaller portions for a quick fix, though the topping might be less crunchy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of this Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
What can I add to make it more flavorful?
Adding diced ham, cooked bacon bits, or chopped green onions can bring new layers of flavor. You can also sprinkle some paprika or smoked paprika for a subtle smoky kick that pairs beautifully with the cheddar cheese.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh shredded potatoes can work, frozen hash browns make this recipe much easier and more consistent. If you use fresh, make sure to drain excess moisture well to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional cornflakes contain gluten, so this casserole is not gluten-free as written. However, substituting gluten-free cereal for the topping can easily make it friendly to gluten-sensitive guests.
How long can I leave the casserole out before serving?
For food safety, don’t leave the casserole out at room temperature for more than two hours. If it’s a buffet or potluck situation, keep it warm in a slow cooker or covered baking dish between servings.
Final Thoughts
This Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe is a timeless crowd-pleaser that always brings comfort and joy to the table. Its creamy, cheesy interior paired with a crunchy, golden topping makes it irresistible every time. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a potluck, or simply a weeknight treat, give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Funeral Potatoes, a comforting and cheesy hash brown casserole, are the perfect side dish for any potluck or family gathering. This classic American recipe features shredded hash browns mixed with creamy soup, sour cream, melted butter, and sharp cheddar cheese, topped with a crunchy cornflake crust that bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a creamy, flavorful mixture.
- Add Hash Browns: Gently fold the thawed shredded hash browns into the creamy mixture until they are evenly coated with all the ingredients.
- Assemble in Dish: Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined, forming a crispy crunchy topping.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the potato layer in the baking dish, covering the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier serving and better flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
- Enhance flavor by adding chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or diced ham before baking.
