Have you ever wondered why some recipes stand the test of time, becoming staples at family gatherings generation after generation? Funeral potatoes are exactly that kind of dish – a creamy, cheesy potato casserole that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for decades. Despite their somewhat somber name, these potatoes bring nothing but joy to the table!
I first encountered funeral potatoes at a family reunion in Utah. One bite of that golden, crunchy-topped casserole, and I was instantly transported to comfort food heaven. The contrast between the crispy cornflake topping and the creamy potato mixture underneath was simply divine. I’ve been perfecting my recipe ever since, and today I’m sharing all my tips and tricks with you.
What Are Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral potatoes earned their unique name because they’ve long been a staple dish served at post-funeral luncheons, particularly in Mormon communities throughout the American West. The dish’s popularity at these gatherings stems from several practical qualities:
- Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance
- Feeds a crowd: Easily scalable to serve many people
- Comforting: Offers warmth and satisfaction during difficult times
- Transportable: Travels well in casserole dishes
But don’t let the name fool you! These days, funeral potatoes appear at potlucks, holiday dinners, Sunday suppers, and any occasion calling for delicious comfort food. They’ve transcended their original context to become a beloved dish across America.
The Essential Ingredients
What makes funeral potatoes so irresistible? Let’s break down the components that create this perfect comfort food storm:
Base ingredients:
- Frozen hash browns (or freshly grated potatoes)
- Cream soup (typically cream of chicken or mushroom)
- Sour cream
- Butter
- Cheese (usually cheddar)
- Onions
- Seasonings
- Cornflake or potato chip topping
The beauty of funeral potatoes lies in their adaptability. The recipe has countless variations, passing through families with personal tweaks and improvements along the way. Some use fresh potatoes, others frozen; some add extra vegetables, others keep it classic. The possibilities are endless!
My Favorite Funeral Potatoes Recipe
After years of testing and tasting, I’ve landed on what I consider the perfect funeral potatoes recipe. It strikes just the right balance between creamy and crunchy, rich and bright.
Ingredients
For the potato mixture:
- 2 pounds (about 30 ounces) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
For the topping:
- 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the potato mixture: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, melted butter, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the potato mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish.
- Make the topping: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with melted butter and Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss until the cornflakes are evenly coated.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the potato mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until bubbling around the edges and golden brown on top.
- Rest before serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving to set up properly.
Variations to Try
The classic recipe is wonderful, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are some of my favorite variations:
Hash Brown Options
| Type | Texture | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded hash browns | Lighter, more uniform texture | Traditional style |
| Cubed hash browns | Chunkier, more defined potato pieces | Heartier version |
| Freshly grated potatoes | Most authentic texture, slightly more work | Purists who prefer from-scratch cooking |
| Tater tots | Fun twist with built-in crunch | Kid-friendly version |
Soup Base Alternatives
| Soup Base | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream of chicken | Classic, savory | Traditional choice |
| Cream of mushroom | Earthier flavor | Great vegetarian option |
| Cream of celery | Lighter, fresh taste | Adds subtle vegetable flavor |
| Homemade white sauce | Most control over ingredients | Best for avoiding processed foods |
Cheese Variations
| Cheese | Flavor Profile | Best Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp cheddar | Classic, tangy | Traditional choice |
| Gruyère | Nutty, sophisticated | Pairs well with caramelized onions |
| Pepper jack | Spicy kick | Great with added green chilies |
| Colby jack | Mild, melty | Kid-friendly option |
| Swiss | Distinct flavor | Works well with ham additions |
Add-In Ideas
Want to elevate your funeral potatoes or transform them into a complete meal? Try these add-ins:
- Protein options:
- Diced ham (1-2 cups)
- Crumbled bacon (8-10 strips, cooked and crumbled)
- Shredded rotisserie chicken (2 cups)
- Browned ground beef with taco seasoning (1 pound)
- Vegetable additions:
- Diced bell peppers (1 cup)
- Green chilies (1 small can, drained)
- Broccoli florets, blanched (2 cups)
- Peas and carrots (1 cup)
- Caramelized onions (1-2 cups)
- Sautéed mushrooms (8 ounces)
- Flavor boosters:
- Dijon mustard (1-2 tablespoons)
- Ranch seasoning mix (1 packet)
- Fresh herbs (2-4 tablespoons chopped parsley, chives, or dill)
- Hot sauce (to taste)
- Worcestershire sauce (1-2 teaspoons)
Tips for Perfect Funeral Potatoes Every Time
After making this dish countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks that make a big difference:
- Thaw your hash browns completely – This ensures even cooking and helps remove excess moisture.
- Grate your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your dish. Freshly grated melts more smoothly.
- Don’t skip the rest time – Those 10 minutes after baking allow the casserole to set properly and make serving much easier.
- Balance your texture – The contrast between creamy interior and crunchy topping is what makes this dish special. Don’t skimp on either element!
- Season generously – Potatoes need plenty of seasoning. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust accordingly.
- Prevent a soggy topping – Add the cornflake topping just before baking, and make sure your oven is fully preheated.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about funeral potatoes is how well they work for meal prep and leftovers:
Make-Ahead Options:
Option 1: Refrigerate unbaked
- Prepare the potato mixture and spread in baking dish
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap
- Prepare topping but store separately
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days
- When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking
- Add topping just before baking
- Increase baking time by 10-15 minutes
Option 2: Freeze unbaked
- Prepare the potato mixture and spread in freezer-safe baking dish
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Prepare topping fresh on baking day
- Thaw completely in refrigerator (24 hours)
- Add topping just before baking
- Bake as directed, adding 15-20 minutes to cooking time
Storage of Leftovers:
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Microwave individual portions 2-3 minutes or oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until hot |
| Freezer | 1-2 months | Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating in 350°F oven for 25-30 minutes |
Serving Suggestions
Funeral potatoes can shine as a side dish or stand alone as a main course. Here are some serving ideas:
As a Side Dish:
- Baked ham
- Grilled chicken
- Meatloaf
- Pot roast
- BBQ ribs
- Grilled steak
- Roast turkey
As a Main Course:
- Serve with a green salad and crusty bread
- Add protein directly to the casserole (ham, chicken, etc.)
- Pair with steamed vegetables
- Offer with a fruit salad for brunch
For Potlucks:
- Transport in an insulated carrier
- Consider a slow cooker variation to keep warm
- Bring serving utensils specific to this dish
- Label with ingredients for those with dietary restrictions
Healthier Adaptations
While funeral potatoes are decidedly a comfort food indulgence, there are ways to lighten them up without sacrificing flavor:
Lighter Versions:
- Replace full-fat sour cream with light sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Use reduced-fat cheese (though you may need to adjust quantities)
- Substitute half the potatoes with cauliflower rice
- Use light cream soup or make a lighter homemade version
- Reduce butter in both mixture and topping
- Try a lighter topping like panko bread crumbs with less butter
Special Dietary Needs:
Gluten-Free:
- Use gluten-free cream soup
- Choose gluten-free cornflakes or crushed potato chips for topping
Vegetarian:
- Substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup for chicken
- Add extra vegetables for more substance
Remember, sometimes it’s worth enjoying the original version as an occasional treat. Food carries cultural significance and emotional comfort that “healthified” versions might not fully satisfy!
The Cultural Significance of Funeral Potatoes
Beyond their practical attributes, funeral potatoes represent something deeper in American food culture. They exemplify the tradition of “comfort cooking” – foods prepared with love to nurture those in need. Similar to casseroles across the country, they’re a tangible expression of community support during difficult times.
In Mormon communities especially, funeral potatoes symbolize the Relief Society’s commitment to service. Women would prepare these dishes to feed mourning families, creating a tradition that strengthened community bonds. The dish has since become a cultural touchstone, even being featured as a commemorative pin during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City!
Today, funeral potatoes have achieved cult status beyond their religious origins. They’ve been featured in cooking magazines, food blogs, and even upscale restaurant menus as “heritage comfort food.” Their evolution shows how deeply food traditions become intertwined with our cultural identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are they called funeral potatoes? A: They earned this name because they were traditionally served at post-funeral luncheons, particularly in Mormon communities. The casserole was practical (easy to make in large quantities) and comforting during difficult times.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns? A: Absolutely! You’ll need about 2 pounds of russet potatoes. Peel them, grate them, and then rinse under cold water and pat very dry with paper towels to remove excess starch. This prevents the casserole from becoming gummy.
Q: My topping always seems to get soggy. What am I doing wrong? A: Three common culprits: 1) Adding the topping too early before baking, 2) Not crushing the cornflakes enough, allowing them to absorb too much moisture, or 3) Excess moisture in your potato mixture. Make sure to thaw and drain frozen hash browns thoroughly.
Q: Can I make this without condensed soup? A: Yes! Make a homemade white sauce by melting 3 tablespoons butter, whisking in 3 tablespoons flour until golden, then slowly adding 1½ cups of chicken broth and ½ cup milk. Cook until thickened, then proceed with the recipe.
Q: How far in advance can I make this dish? A: You can prepare the potato mixture up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate it. Keep the topping separate and add just before baking. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole (without topping) for up to 3 months.
Q: My family doesn’t like cornflakes. What else can I use for topping? A: Crushed potato chips, buttered panko bread crumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even French fried onions all make excellent alternative toppings!
Q: Can I make funeral potatoes in a slow cooker? A: Yes! Prepare as directed, but cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add the topping during the last 30 minutes and leave the lid slightly ajar to maintain some crunch.
Q: Are funeral potatoes a Mormon dish? A: While they became particularly popular in Mormon communities through Relief Society gatherings and funeral luncheons, similar potato casseroles exist across American regional cooking. The specific name “funeral potatoes” is most strongly associated with Mormon culture in the Mountain West.
Conclusion
Funeral potatoes may have an unusual name, but there’s nothing mysterious about why this dish has endured for generations. The combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes with a crunchy topping creates a perfect comfort food that satisfies on every level. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a potluck contribution, or yes, even a funeral luncheon, this versatile casserole is sure to please.
I hope you’ll try my recipe and perhaps start your own tradition with this beloved dish. Remember, the best recipes are those that evolve as they’re passed down, so don’t be afraid to make it your own with special touches that your family will love!
What variation will you try first? I’d love to hear how funeral potatoes become part of your family’s food story!
