Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. Known for their creamy texture and cheesy goodness, these potatoes serve as a perfect side for family dinners, holiday feasts, or potluck parties. The crunchy cornflake topping adds a unique twist that will make them the star of your meal. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why Funeral Potatoes have earned a special place at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a casual dinner, everyone loves cheesy potatoes!
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs well with various main courses and can be enjoyed at any time of year.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make this recipe a warm hug on a plate.
• Freezer-Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and freeze it for later use, saving you time when hosting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe for Funeral Potatoes, let’s gather the essential tools and equipment you will need for smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 casserole dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 casserole dish: Perfect size for baking and serving a generous portion of Funeral Potatoes.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy removal of the casserole after baking, keeping it intact.
• Mixing spoon: Essential for thoroughly combining the ingredients to achieve that creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Potato Base

• 2 pounds southern style hash brown potatoes (frozen)
• 2 tablespoons minced onions (frozen)
• 2 cups sour cream
• 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup

For the Topping

• 4 tablespoons stick butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the Crunchy Finish

• 2 1/2 cups corn flake cereal (crushed)
• 1/2 cup butter (melted)

How to Make Funeral Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare your 9×13 casserole dish by lightly coating it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Combine Hash Browns and Onions

In a large mixing bowl, place the frozen hash browns along with the minced onions. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix in Creamy Ingredients

Add in the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of shredded cheese. Stir everything together until well incorporated. Transfer this mixture into your prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Corn Flake Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed corn flake cereal with the remaining melted butter. Once combined, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your potato casserole.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.

Enjoy your delicious Funeral Potatoes as a comforting side that everyone will love!

How to Serve Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or a side, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this cheesy delight.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair with grilled chicken for a hearty meal. The flavors of the chicken and the creamy potatoes work wonderfully together.

As Part of a Holiday Feast

• Serve during holidays alongside turkey or beef. They add a comforting touch to festive gatherings.

With a Fresh Salad

• Balance the richness with a fresh garden salad. A crisp salad brightens up the meal and adds texture.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans. The vegetables provide color and nutrients, making your plate more appealing.

Paired with Meatloaf

• Enjoy with meatloaf for a classic comfort meal. The savory flavors mesh beautifully, making it a family favorite.

How to Perfect Funeral Potatoes

Perfecting Funeral Potatoes is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for an even tastier dish.

• Use quality cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese for deeper flavor. It enhances the overall taste of your casserole.

• Don’t skip the onions: Adding minced onions gives depth and sweetness to the dish. Even frozen versions work well!

• Crush your corn flakes finely: Finer crumbs provide better coverage and crunch on top. This ensures every bite has that satisfying texture.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy potatoes.

2. Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread brings additional carbs that everyone loves, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

3. Caesar Salad: This classic salad offers a crunchy texture and tangy dressing that pairs well with cheesy dishes.

4. Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw balances out the richness of Funeral Potatoes, creating a delightful contrast.

5. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans offer a sweet and smoky flavor profile that complements cheesy casseroles wonderfully.

6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides freshness and pairs well with creamy dishes like Funeral Potatoes.

7. Stuffed Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice or veggies make for an attractive and tasty addition to your meal.

8. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance while still being simple enough not to overpower other flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Funeral Potatoes are a delightful dish, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using fresh potatoes: Fresh potatoes require peeling and cooking, which makes the recipe more complicated. Stick to frozen hash browns for easy preparation.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or spices can lead to bland flavors. Always season your mixture well to enhance the taste.
• Overbaking the dish: Leaving the casserole in the oven too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and aim for a golden-brown topping.
• Not mixing thoroughly: Failing to combine all ingredients well can result in uneven flavors and textures. Make sure everything is mixed evenly before baking.
• Neglecting the topping: A lack of crushed corn flakes on top means missing out on that delightful crunch. Don’t skip this step for an added texture contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Funeral Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Funeral Potatoes

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
• Frozen Funeral Potatoes can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Funeral Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter, and cook until warmed through while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Funeral Potatoes.

What are Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral Potatoes are a comforting casserole made with hash browns, cheese, sour cream, and topped with crunchy corn flakes.

Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I customize my Funeral Potatoes?

You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers or different cheeses to personalize your dish according to your taste preferences.

How should I serve Funeral Potatoes?

These potatoes make an excellent side dish for holiday meals or gatherings. Pair them with chicken or beef for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Funeral Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. This cheesy potato dish is perfect as a side at holiday gatherings or as a comforting main course. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for added flair! Give this recipe a try; it may just become your new go-to potato dish!