If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden topping, then Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns is the recipe you’ve been waiting for! This classic casserole is the ultimate in comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a hearty, feel-good meal.
What makes Funeral Potatoes so special? It’s all about the layers of melted cheese, creamy sour cream, and tender hashbrowns that create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just because, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add in bacon, veggies, or your favorite cheese blend for a personalized twist.
Ready to dive into this cheesy, comforting dish? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents :
1. Key Benefits of Making Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns are more than just a side dish—they’re a warm, comforting hug in a casserole dish. This creamy, cheesy delight is a family favorite that combines the simplicity of hashbrowns with rich, velvety flavors, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or simply a cozy weeknight dinner, these potatoes are sure to impress. Here’s why this dish is so special:
- Irresistibly Creamy Texture: The combination of sour cream, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese gives these potatoes a luxurious, smooth texture. The frozen hashbrowns provide the perfect base for all that creamy goodness, absorbing the flavors beautifully while keeping things easy and fuss-free.
- Saves Time, No Peeling Required: Unlike traditional mashed potatoes that require peeling, slicing, and cooking the potatoes, this recipe uses frozen hashbrowns—saving you time and effort. This makes it a quick, easy option for busy cooks or when you just want to spend less time in the kitchen.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: There’s something magical about the combination of cheesy, creamy potatoes that makes it a dish loved by kids and adults alike. The crispy edges of the hashbrowns and gooey cheese in the middle create a satisfying texture contrast, making each bite more delicious than the last.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns are ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, and potlucks. They’re a classic comfort food that pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to grilled chicken.
- Easy Customization: While the classic version is delicious as-is, this recipe is highly adaptable. Want to spice it up? Add in some sautéed onions or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. You can even try using a mix of cheeses to give it a unique twist. The options are endless!
2. Ingredients for the Perfect Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns
Now that you know why this dish is such a crowd-pleaser, let’s dive into the ingredients that will bring this comforting casserole to life. The beauty of Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns lies in its simplicity—just a few key ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package frozen hashbrowns (about 30 ounces)
The foundation of this dish, frozen hashbrowns save you the time and hassle of peeling and grating potatoes. Plus, they cook perfectly, holding their texture while absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- 1 cup sour cream
Sour cream adds a tangy, creamy richness that balances the cheese and other ingredients. It’s essential for achieving that luscious, smooth texture we all love.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
For extra creaminess, cream cheese is your best friend. It helps bind everything together while adding richness without being overwhelming.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese works best in this recipe, giving it a bold, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other creamy ingredients. Feel free to use a milder cheddar if you prefer a subtler taste.
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Butter brings a rich, indulgent flavor and helps keep the casserole moist and golden. It also aids in achieving that crispy, golden-brown top.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Garlic powder enhances the savory depth of the dish without overpowering the other flavors. It’s the perfect seasoning to round out the cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
Simple but essential. These seasonings bring everything together and elevate the flavors. Adjust to your taste preference!
Optional Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
These not only add a burst of color but also provide a fresh, slightly sharp flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the casserole. Plus, they make the dish look extra appetizing.
Ingredient Tips:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Hashbrowns: While frozen hashbrowns are the time-saving choice, if you prefer to use fresh potatoes, feel free to shred them yourself. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before using to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Cheese Variations: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors. A mix of cheeses will give the dish a more complex taste.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, swap the sour cream and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt and dairy-free cream cheese. You can also use plant-based butter and cheese.
3. How to Make Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns
Ready to get your hands into this creamy, cheesy goodness? Let’s walk through the simple steps to make these Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns. Trust me, this is going to be your new go-to comfort food! With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a dish that’s as creamy as it is flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your oven time to heat up while you prepare the casserole, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- Prepare the baking dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the sides and help it cook evenly.
- Combine the ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Frozen hashbrowns (no need to thaw them!)
- Sour cream
- Cream cheese (make sure it’s softened for easy mixing)
- Cheddar cheese
- Melted butter
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper
- Stir everything together until the mixture is fully combined. You want the hashbrowns to be coated in that rich, creamy mixture—this is where the magic happens!
- Spread the mixture into the baking dish
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, pressing down slightly to ensure there are no air pockets.
- Bake to perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The longer it bakes, the more crispy bits you’ll get on the top, which adds a delicious contrast to the creamy interior.
- Let it rest
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to cut into portions.
- Garnish and serve
For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish with chopped green onions. These add a fresh, sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the casserole and makes the dish look beautiful.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Funeral Potatoes:
- Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes helps everything set and makes for cleaner slices when serving.
- Make it ahead of time: You can assemble this casserole the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great option for busy holidays or meal prep.
- Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, top the casserole with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs before baking. These will get crispy in the oven and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Check the cheese: If you like your casserole extra cheesy, feel free to add more shredded cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. It’ll melt beautifully and create a gorgeous golden crust.
4. Pro Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions
Making Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns is a breeze, but there are a few ways to elevate the dish and tailor it to your personal taste. Whether you’re looking for extra flavor, a creative twist, or perfect serving ideas, I’ve got you covered! Here are some pro tips, fun variations, and serving suggestions that will take your casserole to the next level.
Pro Tips for Extra Creaminess and Flavor:
- Use a blend of cheeses: While cheddar is the classic choice, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Gruyère will give your casserole a richer, more complex flavor. A blend of cheeses melts beautifully and creates that irresistible gooey texture.
- Add some heat: If you love a little spice, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. The mild heat balances out the creamy richness and adds an unexpected kick!
- Sautéed onions or garlic: For a deeper, savory flavor, sauté some onions or garlic before adding them to the mix. It brings a lovely caramelized sweetness to the casserole that pairs perfectly with the cheesy base.
- Top it with a crispy finish: Want to add some crunch? Before baking, sprinkle crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or fried onions over the top. These will toast up in the oven, creating a crispy, golden topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior.
Fun Variations to Try:
- Bacon lovers: Add crispy, crumbled bacon to the mixture for a smoky, savory flavor. You can also sprinkle extra bacon bits on top before baking for that perfect bacon crunch.
- Veggie-packed version: Throw in some chopped broccoli, spinach, or green peppers to make your casserole a bit heartier. The vegetables add color, texture, and even more flavor, while still keeping the dish comfort-food friendly.
- Dairy-free version: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, swap out the sour cream, cream cheese, and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Coconut milk or cashew cream can provide a rich, creamy texture, while dairy-free cheese can add that melty goodness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect as a side: Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns are a fantastic side dish for virtually any main course. Serve them alongside roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham for a comforting meal.
- Holiday centerpiece: This dish is an absolute winner for special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter. It’s a perfect addition to the holiday spread and pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a glazed turkey.
- Serve with a salad: Pair your casserole with a fresh green salad or crispy coleslaw for a light contrast to the rich and creamy potatoes. The freshness of the salad cuts through the heaviness, making for a balanced meal.
- Make it a one-pan meal: If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, consider adding a protein like cooked shredded chicken or ground beef to the casserole. This turns the dish into a complete, one-pan meal that’s filling and hearty.
5. Mistakes to Avoid When Making Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns
Making Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns might seem like a foolproof recipe, but even the best cooks can fall into a few common traps. To help you get the creamiest, cheesiest casserole possible, I’ve outlined the most common mistakes and how to avoid them. Let’s ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time!
1. Using Thawed Hashbrowns
One of the key components of this dish is frozen hashbrowns, and they should remain frozen when mixed into the casserole. If you thaw the hashbrowns before using them, you risk the casserole becoming too watery. The frozen hashbrowns will absorb all that creamy goodness as they cook, giving you the perfect texture.
Tip: Always use frozen hashbrowns directly from the bag for the best results!
2. Skipping the Softening Step for Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess to the dish, but if you forget to soften it before mixing, it can create clumps in the casserole. These lumps will be hard to blend in and can impact the texture of the final dish.
Tip: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before adding it to the mixture, or microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it quickly.
3. Not Seasoning Enough
While the ingredients are naturally flavorful, you can easily overlook adding enough seasoning. The combination of garlic powder, salt, and pepper is essential for balancing the richness of the cheese and sour cream. Without enough seasoning, the casserole can taste bland.
Tip: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the salt and pepper. Feel free to add extra garlic powder or a pinch of onion powder to boost the flavor.
4. Overmixing the Ingredients
It’s tempting to stir everything together vigorously, but overmixing can cause the hashbrowns to break apart and lose their texture. A gentle fold is all you need to combine the ingredients without losing the integrity of the hashbrowns.
Tip: Stir until the ingredients are just combined. The goal is to coat the hashbrowns evenly without turning them into mush.
5. Not Letting It Rest After Baking
I know it’s hard to resist digging into that hot, bubbly casserole right away, but giving it a few minutes to rest is crucial. If you slice it too soon, it can fall apart and be difficult to serve.
Tip: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This gives the cheese time to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
6. Underbaking or Overbaking
It’s important to watch the casserole closely during baking. If you underbake it, the center won’t be hot and bubbly, and if you overbake it, the edges can burn while the inside dries out.
Tip: Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. If it’s getting too brown, cover it with foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
7. Not Adding a Crunchy Topping
While optional, a crunchy topping adds the perfect texture to your Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns. Without it, the casserole can be all creamy without the satisfying contrast of crunch.
Tip: Top the casserole with crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before baking to create that irresistible crispy layer.
6. FAQs About Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns
You’ve got questions, and I’m here to help! Whether you’re making Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, there are always a few lingering questions that come up. Let’s address some of the most common ones to make sure you have all the information you need for a flawless dish.
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Absolutely! While frozen hashbrowns are a huge time-saver, you can use fresh potatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to peel and shred them, then squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole. This will help prevent the dish from becoming too soggy.
Tip: If using fresh potatoes, consider grating them right before you make the casserole to keep them from browning.
2. Can I make Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual.
Tip: If you’ve prepped the casserole in advance, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be chilled when you put it in the oven.
3. How do I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers are just as delicious as the fresh batch! To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings, but the oven method will maintain the creamy texture best.
Tip: If the casserole looks a little dry when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creamy consistency.
4. Can I freeze Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns?
Yes! Funeral Potatoes freeze really well. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can either thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake it the next day, or bake it straight from frozen. Just increase the baking time by about 20-30 minutes.
Tip: If freezing, it’s best to skip adding the crunchy topping (like cornflakes) before freezing. Add it just before baking for the best texture.
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns
Ingredients
- 1 30 oz bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cream cheese, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to incorporate.
- Add the thawed hashbrowns to the mixture and gently fold everything together until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns!
7. Conclusion
Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns are the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden topping. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration or a simple family dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences, from adding extra veggies to using your favorite cheese blend.
By following the steps and tips I’ve shared, you’re guaranteed to create a creamy, flavorful casserole that everyone will love. Remember, the key to success is using frozen hashbrowns, ensuring your ingredients are well-seasoned, and taking your time during the baking process. Don’t be afraid to get creative with variations and topping options—this dish is as flexible as it is delicious.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the cheesy magic happen! Enjoy every bite of this comforting, satisfying casserole, and feel free to come back to this recipe whenever you’re craving a heartwarming, homemade meal.
Happy cooking, and I hope you and your loved ones enjoy these Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns as much as I do!
