Funeral potatoes are the ultimate comfort food — a creamy, cheesy casserole with crispy cornflake topping that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potluck gatherings. This easy recipe brings together hash browns, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a buttery topping for a golden, crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Funeral Potatoes Casserole
If you’re craving something cozy and delicious, this casserole checks every box. It’s simple to prepare, uses budget-friendly ingredients, and serves a large group. The combination of creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and a crunchy topping makes it both hearty and satisfying. Best of all, it can be made ahead and baked just before serving, making it an excellent side dish for holidays, family dinners, or gatherings.
Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes Casserole
Casserole Base
- 2 pounds frozen southern-style hash brown potatoes (thawed slightly)
- 2 tablespoons minced onion (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Crunchy Cornflake Topping
- 2½ cups crushed cornflake cereal
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Cream of Chicken Soup: For a vegetarian version, substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
- Cheese Options: Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor.
- Sour Cream Substitute: Replace with plain Greek yogurt for added protein and a lighter texture.
- Butter Alternatives: You can use olive oil or a plant-based butter for a lower-fat or dairy-free option.
- Topping Variation: Instead of cornflakes, try crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a different crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2 – Mix the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, minced onion, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, and shredded cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Step 3 – Assemble the Casserole
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing lightly with a spatula to level it out.
Step 4 – Prepare the Topping
In a medium bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5 – Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbling around the edges, and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6 – Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up slightly for easier scooping.
Pro Tips for Success
- Thaw the hash browns slightly before mixing; this ensures even baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese — it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Don’t skip the topping — the buttery crunch is what makes funeral potatoes special.
- Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
- Bake uncovered: This helps the top become beautifully golden and crisp.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings or freeze one pan for later.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the potato mixture.
- Bacon-Free Smoky Flavor: Stir in smoked paprika or roasted mushrooms for a similar savory depth.
- Loaded Style: Top with green onions, crumbled turkey bacon, or a drizzle of ranch dressing.
- Vegetable Boost: Mix in chopped bell peppers, peas, or broccoli florets.
- Southwestern Twist: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning, then serve with salsa.
Serving Suggestions
Funeral potatoes pair wonderfully with:
- Roasted or grilled chicken
- Turkey or ham (use turkey ham for a pork-free version)
- Fresh salads or steamed vegetables
- Holiday sides like green beans or glazed carrots
They’re also delicious as a brunch dish served with scrambled eggs and fruit.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Freezer: Assemble the casserole without the topping, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
FAQ About Funeral Potatoes
What are funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes are a creamy, cheesy hash brown casserole traditionally served at gatherings, potlucks, or after-service meals. The name comes from its comforting nature and popularity at community meals.
Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake until hot and bubbly.
Can I freeze funeral potatoes?
Definitely. Prepare the casserole without the topping, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight and add the topping before baking.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a homemade white sauce made from milk, butter, and flour. These options make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
How do I make it lighter or healthier?
Substitute half the sour cream with Greek yogurt, use reduced-fat cheese, and replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Funeral Potatoes Casserole delivers everything you love about comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly crunchy. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether you’re celebrating, comforting, or simply sharing a meal with loved ones. With its versatility and easy prep, this casserole deserves a permanent place in your family recipe collection.
Print
Easy Funeral Potatoes Casserole — Cheesy Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole topped with buttery cornflakes — the ultimate comfort side dish.
Ingredients
2 lb frozen hash brown potatoes
2 tbsp minced onion
2 cups sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
4 tbsp butter, melted
1 tsp salt
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2½ cups crushed corn flakes
½ cup melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
3. Mix hash browns, onions, sour cream, soup, butter, salt, and cheese.
4. Spread mixture evenly in pan.
5. Combine corn flakes with butter and sprinkle on top.
6. Bake 40–45 minutes until hot and golden brown.
7. Cool 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom soup. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 45 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
