The Best Easy Cheesy Funeral Potatoes Casserole (2024)

Ingredients Needed For Funeral Potato Casserole

1. Southern Hash Browns :These are frozen hash browns (frozen cubed potatoes) that come frozen in a 32 ounce bag. They are cubed potatoes that are frozen. They are labeled as ‘southern hash browns’ on the packaging. I prefer using the cubed hash browns but shredded hash browns can also be used.
2. Sour Cream :For the best flavor and thick texture, I only recommend using full-fat sour cream when making this cheesy potato casserole recipe.
3. ​Cream of Chicken Soup
4. Butter :Melted butter goes into the potato mixture and the crunch corn flake topping. I use salted butter but unsalted butter can also be used if that’s what you prefer or if you are watching sodium intake.
5. ​Onion Powder
6. ​Kosher Salt
7. Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese :For the best creamy melt I only recommend shredding the cheese yourself from a block of cheese.
8. Cornflakes :This is the cornflakes cereal. Measure out the amount needed and then crush into very fine crumbs.

How To Make Easy Funeral Potatoes Recipe (Printable Recipe Card)

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, kosher salt, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.

Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed crunchy cornflakes with the melted butter. Stir until well combined and all the cornflake crumbs are coated. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over top of the potatoes.

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy!

Why Are They Called Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral potatoes get their iconic name because they are widely associated with funerals and funeral luncheons. Cheesy funeral potatoes are a potato-based dish in casserole form – the ultimate comfort food – that is served hot at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday dinners. It’s a widespread tradition to serve them at gatherings held after funerals, hence the name.

Do I Use Shredded Hash Browns Or Diced Potatoes Hash Browns?

Either kind of frozen hash brown will work for making cheesy funeral potato casserole. I have used both and they turn out great each time. I personally prefer using the cubed hash browns because I think the texture of the funeral potatoes turns out better when using the cubed potatoes. The most important thing is that the frozen potato hash browns need to be completely thawed before using them in the recipe. Otherwise, the potatoes will not soften and get tender during the oven cook time.

How To Store Leftover Funeral Potatoes

Allow the potato casserole to cool completely to room temperate before refrigerating the leftovers. This prevents condensation inside the container. Transfer the potatoes into an airtight container OR cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Place the leftovers inside the refrigerator and store for 3-4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through.

Can I Make Substitutions?

• Frozen Potatoes :Substitute frozen diced potatoes with freshly diced potatoes – if using fresh potatoes (real potatoes) you need to make sure that they are diced very small and ensure they are well-drained of any moisture. You can also use the classic frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed), or the O’Brien version which has some chopped peppers and onions in it.
• Cream of Chicken :Instead of using a can of cream of chicken soup try using cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup.
• Shredded Cheese :Use any variety of cheese in this casserole. Pepper Jack for some spice, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Sharp Cheddar cheese, White Cheddar, etc.