If you have never tried this comforting classic, you are in for a real treat with our Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe. This dish is pure joy in every bite, combining crispy, golden hash browns with creamy, cheesy goodness and a buttery crunchy topping that just melts your heart. It’s one of those warm, soul-satisfying casseroles that feel like a hug on a plate — perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply elevating your weeknight dinner game. Once you taste it, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, savory flavor, and that irresistible crispy topping that everyone raves about.
- Frozen shredded hash browns: The base of this casserole, providing a tender yet slightly crisp texture when baked.
- Unsalted butter: Adds rich flavor and helps bind the dish together; divided to coat both the casserole and topping perfectly.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: Gives the dish a creamy, savory backbone; easy to swap for cream of mushroom if you prefer vegetarian.
- Sour cream: Brings tanginess and creaminess for the ultimate smooth mouthfeel.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create cheesy, gooey layers every bite will crave.
- Chopped green onions or white onion: Adds mild aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
- Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper: Seasonings that lift all the flavors to a harmonious savory peak.
- Cornflakes: Lightly crushed for a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy potatoes perfectly.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prep ensures your casserole won’t stick and will cook evenly. Having the dish ready helps you dive right into mixing the ingredients without losing any precious time.
Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the thawed hash browns with half of the melted butter, the creamy condensed soup, sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, onions, and seasonings. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and combined. This mixture is the heart of your funeral potatoes, guaranteeing every spoonful is packed with cozy, cheesy flavor.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture
Spread your luscious potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Creating an even layer helps the casserole cook uniformly and makes that golden crust on the edges achievable. It’s the foundation for your crispy topping to shine.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Cornflake Topping
In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter until every flake is coated in richness. Sprinkle these over the top of your casserole mixture. This step seals your dish with that signature crunchy, buttery crown that turns this hash brown casserole into a party favorite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges have bubbling cheesy goodness. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving, so those flavors settle and your casserole slices nicely.
How to Serve Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits on top adds a fresh crunch and a touch of color, making your Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe even more irresistible. A dollop of sour cream or a dash of smoked paprika can also heighten the savory notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cheesy hash brown casserole pairs wonderfully with juicy roasted meats, crisp green salads, or steamed vegetables. It’s perfect alongside ham for a holiday feast, grilled chicken for a casual dinner, or even as a hearty veggie side when you opt for the vegetarian version.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks, serve your casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets to keep portions neat and crowd-pleasing. You can also layer it up in a clear baking dish for a rustic, homestyle presentation that showcases every cheesy, crunchy layer. Adding a colorful side salad right next to it creates a vibrant balance on your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe tastes just as fantastic the next day. Simply cover and store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. When you reheat, it’ll maintain its gooey, cheesy charm with just a bit of crispness back in the topping.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this cheesy casserole ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, adding a bit more time if baking from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F until warmed through and the topping regains its crunch. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the topping soggy. A low and slow warm-up keeps the texture vibrant and the cheese nicely melted again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh potatoes can work, frozen shredded hash browns save time and ensure consistent texture. Fresh potatoes may require extra prep like parboiling and shredding, so frozen is a great shortcut for this recipe.
Is there a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole?
Definitely! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup to make the Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe fully vegetarian while keeping all the creamy, cheesy deliciousness intact.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, sour cream, and cheese, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly. It’s worth experimenting if you need a dairy-free version.
What can I substitute for the cornflake topping?
If cornflakes aren’t your thing, crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs make fantastic crunchy toppings. Just toss them in butter as you would the cornflakes to get that golden crisp finish.
How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
Leftovers will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days when properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.
Final Thoughts
This Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe is a surefire way to bring comfort and joy to any mealtime. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and has that magical mix of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy night in, give this dish a try — you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Funeral Potatoes (Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Funeral Potatoes, also known as Cheesy Potatoes, are a comforting and creamy hash brown casserole perfect for potlucks, holidays, or weeknight dinners. This dish features a rich blend of shredded potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a crunchy buttery cornflake topping baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped green onions or 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (divided, 1/4 cup for potato mixture and 1/4 cup for topping)
- 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix the Potato Base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed shredded hash browns with 1/4 cup melted butter, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions or white onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Spread Mixture in Dish. Evenly spread the prepared potato mixture into the greased baking dish to create an even layer for baking.
- Prepare Cornflake Topping. In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes with the remaining 1/4 cup of melted butter until well coated, enhancing crispiness and flavor.
- Top the Casserole. Sprinkle the buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato base in the baking dish to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake the Casserole. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbly, indicating the casserole is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve. Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
- You can replace the cornflake topping with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture.
- This casserole is ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a comforting side dish for weeknight dinners.
