A popular and filling dish, funeral potatoes are usually connected with events when comfort food is most valued. Potlucks, family meals, and even as a side dish at more somber events would find this creamy, cheesy casserole ideal. This is likely to be a crowd-pleaser, whether your goal is to serve it at a party or replicate this great dish for a funeral dinner.
Funeral Potatoes: What Are They?
Funeral potatoes are a popular American comfort meal derived from hash browns, cheese, and creamy toppings. Usually baked to perfection with a crunchy top, the meal is a wonderful mix of tastes and textures. Commonly given at funerals, this classic side dish is a staple at many events, especially in the American Midwest; consequently, the name reflects this.
Although the history of funeral potatoes is unknown, it is thought to have been a dish brought in by the Mormon community as it calls for easily mass-produced ingredients that would feed a gathering. Because they are so wonderfully comforting, funeral potatoes are now eaten at many different kinds of gatherings rather than only funerals.
Ingredients Required for Recipe for Funeral Potatoes
Get the following ingredients ready for a classic funeral potatoes casserole:
About the Casserole
- One thirty-ounce package of thawed frozen hash browns
- One can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (or a vegetarian variation using cream of mushroom)
- One cup of sour cream
- Two cups shredded cheddar cheese—plus more for garnish
- Half a cup melted butter
- 1/2 finely chopped small onion (optional)
- One teaspoon ground garlic powder
- Taste-wise, salt and pepper for the topping
For the Topping
- Two cups crushed corn flakes
- One-quarter cup melted butter
Together, these components produce the creamy, cheesy filling as well as the crispy, golden topping that makes funeral potatoes so appealing.
Detailed Guide on Making Funeral Potatoes
First Step: Preheat the Oven
First, turn on your oven to 350°F (175°C.). This guarantees equal cooking of the dish and the ideal golden-brown finish.
Second Step: Prepare the Casserole Base
Combine in a big mixing dish the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add onions to the mixture as well if you are using them. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended.
Third Step: Build the Casserole
Spoon mixture into a 9×13-inch buttered baking dish. Evenly distribute the mixture using a spatula; also, smooth the top. Your casserole will have a lovely foundation from this.
Fourth Step: Get Ready the Crunchy Topping
Melt the butter, then mix the crushed cornflakes in another bowl. Stir to guarantee uniform butter coating of the cornflakes. Then cover the casserole’s top equally with the cornflake mixture. This will produce a buttery, crispy topping that balances exactly with the creamy filling.
Fifth Step: Bake the Cake
Preheat the oven; bake the casserole for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Cover the top with aluminum foil and keep baking if you discover it is turning too brown before the casserole is entirely heated through.
Step Six: Present and Appreciate
After the casserole comes out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will enable it to set and cut into squares easier. Present heated and savor the wonderful, creamy comfort of funeral potatoes!
Advice on Creating the Ideal Funeral Potatoes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Although occasionally anti-caking chemicals are used in pre-shredded cheese, freshly shredded cheese frequently melts better. Freshly grated cheese will help the casserole to be even more creamy.
- Add Meat: Add cooked bacon, ham, or another meat to the mix to personalize your funeral potatoes. Add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make Ahead: Funeral potatoes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to twenty-four hours before cooking. For holiday feasts or hectic days, this is a terrific choice.
- Gluten-Free Version: To make the meal gluten-free, either use gluten-free cornflakes or skip the topping completely and bake the casserole without it.
Variations on the Standard Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Although the basic recipe is great on its own, there are plenty of ways to change the meal to suit your dietary requirements or tastes.
Funeral Potatoes for Vegetarians
Replace the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup if you wish to make funeral potatoes vegetarian. For a more plant-based choice, you can also cut out any bacon or ham that might be included.
Funeral Potatoes with Spices
To give the casserole mixture a hot sauce or jalapeño chopped twist, think about adding a few dashes of either. This will give the otherwise smooth meal some heat.
Low-Fat Funeral Potatoes
Low-fat substitutes for the sour cream and cream of chicken soup will help create a lighter version. Choose a healthy soup, such as a fat-free cream of mushroom soup, and use a low-fat sour cream.
FAQs Regarding Funeral Potatoes Recipe
How should one keep extra funeral potatoes?
Stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator, leftover funeral potatoes keep for up to three days. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes till heated through to reheat.
Can I make sour cream-free funeral potatoes?
Indeed, you may replace plain Greek yogurt or even a cream cheese substitute if you dislike sour cream or need a lighter variation.
Can I chill funeral potatoes?
Funeral potatoes are indeed frozen easily. Though not baking it, get ready the casserole. Freeze for up to two months instead, securely covering it with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as usual when you’re ready.
Can I use another kind of cheese?
Indeed, you may replace cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a combination of your preferred cheeses. Still, cheddar cheese is the most often used for its pungent taste.
How might I make funeral potatoes spicier?
Before baking, toss in chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a couple teaspoons of spicy sauce to liven the casserole mixture.
A comforting, creamy meal, funeral potatoes have grown to be a mainstay at many events. Whether you’re making them for a funeral or just a family meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your guests. This casserole is ideal for individuals who like to make a meal that’s both nostalgic and substantial since it has easily available components and a basic cooking technique. Remember to try the variants to create your own recipe!