Alright, folks, let’s talk about something that might just be the ultimate comfort food: Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns. Now, don’t be fooled by the name; these aren’t just for somber gatherings. They’ve made their way into potlucks, family dinners, and holiday spreads all over the place.
Picture this: a big, warm dish of creamy hashbrowns, all bubbling away and topped with a crunchy layer of golden cornflakes. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavor, making everything just a bit better. If you’re looking for a simple recipe that’s loaded with nostalgia and warmth, you’ve come to the right spot.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this Midwestern and Mormon classic. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why these potatoes have earned a special place at the table. Let’s get cooking!
Recipe
Funeral potatoes, also known as “cheesy potato casserole,” are a comforting and hearty side dish that has become a staple at gatherings across America, particularly in the Midwest and Mormon communities. Known for their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crunchy topping, these potatoes are surprisingly easy to prepare and can feed a crowd with minimal effort.
This classic casserole combines the convenience of frozen hash browns with the rich flavors of cheese, cream soup, and sour cream, all topped with a crispy cornflake crust. While traditionally served at post-funeral luncheons (hence the name), this versatile dish has found its way to holiday tables, potlucks, and family dinners due to its crowd-pleasing nature and make-ahead convenience. The dish is especially popular in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints culture where it’s consistently served at community gatherings.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen hash browns | 2 pounds (30 oz) | Shredded or cubed, thawed |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Can substitute cream of mushroom or celery |
| Sour cream | 2 cups | Full fat works best for creaminess |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups | Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded |
| Butter | 1/2 cup (1 stick) | Divided, melted |
| Onion | 1/2 cup | Finely diced, optional |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | To taste |
| Cornflakes | 2 cups | Crushed |
To prepare funeral potatoes, start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated cheese, diced onion (if using), half of the melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, then transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter until coated, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the potato mixture. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
For best results, thaw your hash browns completely before mixing to guarantee even cooking and prevent excess moisture in the casserole. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them quickly by spreading them on a baking sheet at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking – just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the refrigerator. For a make-ahead option, you can also freeze the unbaked casserole (without the cornflake topping) for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping just before baking, and increase cooking time appropriately.
Cooking Tips
Mastering funeral potatoes comes down to five essential cooking techniques that will elevate your casserole from good to unforgettable.
First, always pat dry your thawed hashbrowns to prevent a soggy texture. We can’t stress this enough!
Second, gently fold ingredients rather than vigorously stirring – this keeps the dish light and fluffy.
Third, create distinct layers when assembling for perfect presentation and cooking.
Don’t forget to thoroughly melt butter before mixing with your crunchy topping of choice. This guarantees an evenly crisp, golden crust. Monitor the casserole carefully during baking to ensure the topping achieves the perfect golden brown color without burning.
Finally, if your schedule’s tight, try the slow cooker method – it’s a game-changer for busy gatherings!
History
While the exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, the beloved comfort dish that’s recognized as funeral potatoes can be traced back to the Relief Society of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This hearty casserole gained popularity at post-funeral gatherings in Utah, earning its somewhat somber name.
Over the years, funeral potatoes have become:
- A staple at Mormon community events beyond just funerals
- A recognized symbol of Utah cuisine, even featured in the 2002 Winter Olympics with a commemorative pin
- An evolving recipe that maintains its core ingredients while welcoming regional variations
We’ve seen this dish transform from a practical community meal to a celebrated cultural icon. Early Relief Society cookbooks featured the dish, helping to standardize and spread its popularity throughout Mormon communities.
Final Thoughts
The evolution from religious community gatherings to Olympic pin-worthy status shows how deeply funeral potatoes have embedded themselves in American culinary culture.
These cheesy, comforting casseroles bring people together in times of both sorrow and celebration.
We’ve explored the nutritional content, ingredient variations, and cultural significance of this beloved dish. Per serving, these potatoes provide about 36 calories from the frozen hash browns alone, not counting the cheese and other ingredients.
Whether you’re making them from scratch with fresh potatoes or using a convenient mix from Augason Farms, funeral potatoes offer flexibility and reliability.
They’re more than just food—they’re a tradition that connects communities.
Next time you’re seeking comfort food that feeds a crowd, remember this humble yet remarkable casserole.
Conclusion
In wrapping up our journey with these funeral potatoes with hashbrowns, it’s clear that this dish is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition that brings warmth to our hearts and tables. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the crispy hashbrowns creates a comforting blend that’s hard to resist. So, whether you’re whipping these up for a family reunion or lending a hand to a neighbor in need, remember that you’re not just serving food; you’re sharing a piece of comfort and connection. Give them a go, and you’ll see just how a simple dish can make all the difference. Happy cooking!