I’ve always found funeral potatoes to be the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy richness with a satisfying crunch. This recipe takes simple ingredients—hash browns, sour cream, and cheese—and transforms them into a dish that’s perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings. There’s something about the way the flavors meld together that keeps me coming back. Curious about how to nail the balance of textures and flavors? Let’s get started.
Recipe
There’s a reason funeral potatoes are a beloved classic—this dish is pure comfort in every bite, and I can confidently say it’s the creamiest, cheesiest, most irresistible version you’ll ever make. What sets this recipe apart? A perfect balance of crispy, buttery topping and a velvety, cheesy center that’s loaded with just the right amount of savory goodness.
I’ve tweaked this recipe over the years, and trust me, the secret is in the sharp cheddar and a touch of sour cream for that extra tangy richness. Imagine golden, crunchy edges giving way to a melt-in-your-mouth filling—it’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at potlucks and family dinners.
Whether you’re serving it as a side or digging in straight from the pan (no judgment here), this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s make magic happen.
Ingredients
The key to perfect Funeral Potatoes lies in the balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy elements. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, and with the right ingredients, it’s easy to make it your own. Here’s what you’ll need to nail this comforting dish:
For the Creamy Base:
- Frozen shredded hash browns (30 oz): Thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can): This is the backbone of the sauce—don’t skip it. For a vegetarian option, substitute with cream of mushroom soup.
- Sour cream (2 cups): Full-fat is best for richness, but low-fat works in a pinch.
- Butter (½ cup, melted): Adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
For the Cheesy Goodness:
- Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded, which has additives.
- Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a milder, creamy texture. Swap with mozzarella if needed.
For the Crunchy Topping:
- Cornflakes or potato chips (2 cups, crushed): Cornflakes give a classic crunch, but potato chips add a salty twist.
- Butter (¼ cup, melted): Helps the topping crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Diced onions (½ cup): Sauté them first for extra flavor.
- Minced garlic (1-2 cloves): Adds a subtle savory note.
- Green onions or chives (for garnish): A fresh finish to balance the richness.
Pro Tips:
- Use room-temperature sour cream and soup for easier mixing.
- Double the cheese if you’re feeling indulgent—it’s worth it.
- For a lighter version, swap part of the sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- A sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne on top adds a hint of warmth.
How to Make the Best Classic Funeral Potatoes Recipe
- Transfer to the baking dish and top with remaining cheese – Spread evenly for consistent baking. The extra cheese forms a golden, crispy layer on top.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes – The edges should bubble, and the top turn golden brown.
*Visual cue: A slight jiggle in the center means it’s done—it’ll set as it cools.*
– Let rest 10 minutes before serving – This allows the dish to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice.
*Time-saving trick: Prep ahead and refrigerate unbaked—just add 10–15 minutes to the bake time.*
– Optional: Add crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs before baking – Sprinkle on top for extra crunch. Press lightly so they adhere but don’t sink.
*Flexibility: Skip if you prefer a softer topping.*
Nutrition
Nutritional information for Homemade Funeral Potatoes can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Total Carbs | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
Chef Tips
While keeping an eye on the nutrition, I’ve found that a few simple tweaks can elevate the flavor and texture of Homemade Funeral Potatoes. Use freshly grated cheese—it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
Sauté onions until golden for depth. Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt if you want tang without heaviness.
Top with crushed cornflakes for crunch. Don’t overbake—keep it creamy. These small changes make a big difference.
