Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns is a dish that many people hold dear to their hearts. This creamy, cheesy casserole is often served during gatherings, particularly at potlucks and funerals, hence the name. However, it has evolved into a well-loved family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any table. You may remember the wonderful aroma of the cheesy goodness filling your home as a child, or perhaps you’ve had it at a friend’s gathering, and now you’re eager to recreate that experience in your kitchen.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the entire process of making your own Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns. You’ll discover how simple it is to create this beloved dish, the key ingredients that make it shine, and various tips and tricks tailored to help you succeed. Moreover, I’ll share insightful variations of this recipe to suit different dietary preferences, as well as answers to frequently asked questions to ensure you ace this dish every time.
What Is Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns (Family Favorite)?
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns is a rich and satisfying casserole that features shredded potatoes as the main ingredient, often accompanied by a melty, creamy mixture of cheese, sour cream, and soup. The dish originated in the United States, particularly in the Midwest, and has become a staple comfort food for many families. The texture is incredibly comforting—think creamy and cheesy potpourri of flavors wrapped around tender potatoes that melt in your mouth.
The flavor profile is a delightful combination of savory and creamy, accentuated by the crispy topping that usually comes from crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs baked to golden perfection. This casserole offers a balance of richness from the cheese and cream, which beautifully complements the comforting starchiness of the hashbrowns. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also evokes fond memories of family gatherings.
Whether you’re preparing for a family reunion, a cozy dinner, or a calming night at home, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. It’s versatile enough to be a side dish or a standalone meal and holds an honorary place in many people’s hearts for its nostalgic charm and comforting flavors.
Why You’ll Love This
You’ll fall in love with Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns for many reasons. First and foremost, the taste is amazing; each bite is a warm hug of cheese and creaminess. Additionally, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal dish for busy parents or anyone who might feel apprehensive in the kitchen. You can whip this up within a short prep time and enjoy a delicious dish without spending hours over the stove.
Cost-effectiveness is another reason this recipe shines. With pantry staples like hashbrowns, cheese, and cream, you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. It’s a budget-friendly dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prepping for the week.
While some might think that this dish is too indulgent, it can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for alternatives that are lighter or gluten-free options, you’ll find that there are compassionate solutions without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns, gather the following ingredients:
- Hashbrowns: 32 ounces (frozen or fresh). This serves as the base of the dish, providing that comforting texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Sharp cheddar works wonderfully for a richer flavor.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup. It adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces). You can substitute this with cream of mushroom or a vegetarian option if needed.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted. This helps to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. A fantastic seasoning that gives a mild onion flavor.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. For that savory depth, this is essential.
- Cornflakes or Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (for topping). This adds a wonderfully crispy texture; make sure to crush them before adding.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Each ingredient plays a significant role in making this dish what it is. The hashbrowns are the star, while cheddar cheese brings depth, and sour cream balances the dish with tanginess. Feel free to adjust types of cheese for a unique twist, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
How to Make
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this delicious dish.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Starting with a preheated oven ensures even baking and helps achieve that beautiful golden color on top.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until each ingredient is evenly distributed, creating a creamy texture. It should feel heavy and satisfying as you stir.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture out evenly. You’ll want to make sure it is all in one layer for even cooking.
- In another bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) with a tablespoon of melted butter. This will help to crisp up the topping. Mix well until all crumbs are coated with butter.
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the potato mixture. This step adds a delightful crunch to contrast with the creamy filling. Make sure the topping is well-distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The aroma of melting cheese and crunchy topping will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
- After baking, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set a bit and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve hot and enjoy! Each spoonful will be flavorful and comforting, making this dish hard to resist.
Cooking tip: For beginners, make sure to follow the instructions closely for the best results. Pay attention to the baking time and watch for that coveted golden color atop the dish—this is an indicator of a perfectly baked casserole.
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Funeral Potatoes: If you’re looking to tailor this dish for vegetarians, simply replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup, or use a vegetable broth mixed with a plant-based cream for the creamy element. This variation retains the comforting qualities of the original while accommodating dietary preferences.
Loaded Funeral Potatoes: For those who enjoy a heartier meal, consider adding cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or sautéed onions and peppers into the hashbrown mixture. This not only adds protein but also layers of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Gluten-Free Option: If gluten is a concern, make sure the cream of chicken soup is labeled gluten-free and use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of cornflakes for the topping. You can also find gluten-free potato products that will mix well into the casserole.
Low-Fat Variation: To lighten up the dish, swap regular sour cream for low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt. Additionally, replace regular cheese with low-fat cheese options. This maintains creaminess while decreasing calories.
Spicy Funeral Potatoes: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix. Not only will it elevate the flavor, but it will also add an element of surprise that your guests will love.
Each variation not only caters to different tastes but also allows for flexibility in preparation depending on dietary needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns, there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind. One major mistake is not fully thawing the frozen hashbrowns before mixing them with other ingredients. This can lead to uneven cooking and a soupy consistency. Always ensure your hashbrowns are well-drained and at room temperature.
Another point to be cautious of is overcooking the dish. Checking for doneness is important; the casserole should be bubbly and golden brown on top but not burnt. If you notice that the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it lightly with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside cooks through.
Lastly, be careful not to skimp on seasoning. While the creamy elements do add flavor, under-seasoning can result in a bland dish. Taste the mixture before adding it to the baking dish and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To ensure the best longevity of your Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns, consider these storage and reheating tips. First, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container; this will help retain moisture and flavor. The dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Bake as per the usual instructions but extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if it’s still cold.
When reheating, place in an oven set at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes, checking to avoid over-baking. This will help keep the topping crispy while warming up the inside properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld.
What type of cheese works best? While sharp cheddar is most commonly used, feel free to experiment with different types. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses can add unique flavors to your casserole.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dish? Absolutely! You can use dairy-free sour cream and a dairy-free cream of chicken soup alternative. Additionally, vegan cheese options can be substituted to achieve a similar creamy texture.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns? Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes and prepare them for this recipe, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Ensure they’re grated evenly and processed quickly to avoid browning.
What should I serve with Funeral Potatoes? This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or even baked chicken or ham. The creamy and cheesy flavors balance beautifully with lighter, fresher sides.
Conclusion:
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns is a dish that embodies comfort, nostalgia, and easy cooking, making it an all-time family favorite. It’s incredibly straightforward to prepare and adapts well to various dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it. I encourage you to try this recipe and feel free to customize it to your taste or dietary requirements. It’s a dish that invites conversation and brings warmth to any gathering. So gather your ingredients, don your apron, and start cooking this delectable casserole that will surely become a staple in your meal repertoire. Share your results with family and friends and enjoy the love that comes from cooking for others.
