Funeral Potatoes, also known as cheesy potato casserole or hash brown casserole, are a beloved comfort food dish that has been a staple at gatherings and potlucks for generations. Made with simple ingredients like hash brown potatoes, cheese, sour cream, and butter, this creamy and cheesy casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 32 ounces frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed for 30-40 minutes
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 16 ounces sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Sauté Onions: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Potato Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, sautéed onions, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and crushed corn flakes until well combined. Sprinkle the corn flake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of Funeral Potatoes!
Tips for Success:
- Thawing Hash Browns: Thaw the frozen hash brown potatoes for 30-40 minutes at room temperature before using them in the recipe. This will help prevent clumping and ensure even cooking.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to customize the cheese blend based on your preferences. You can use different types of cheese such as Colby Jack, Gouda, or Swiss for added flavor and variety.
- Crushed Corn Flakes: The crushed corn flakes add a crispy texture to the topping of the casserole. If you prefer a softer topping, you can omit the corn flakes or substitute with crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Course Pairing: Serve Funeral Potatoes as a side dish alongside your favorite main course such as roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Potluck Favorite: Bring Funeral Potatoes to potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations as a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
- Brunch Option: Enjoy Funeral Potatoes as part of a hearty brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, fresh fruit, and muffins for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Funeral Potatoes are a timeless comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, they’re sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a taste of home, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of Funeral Potatoes with this delicious and satisfying recipe!
