Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, also known as Party Potatoes, are a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you need a warm, cheesy side dish. This creamy, cheesy potato casserole topped with a crispy, buttery topping is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether served alongside a holiday ham or as a side dish for a family dinner, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Notes
• Variations
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Potato Casserole

• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash brown potatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined, ensuring that the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Topping

1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers) and melted butter. Stir until the topping is evenly coated in the butter.

Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake

1. Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the potato mixture.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
3. Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Notes

• Potatoes: Frozen hash brown potatoes are convenient, but you can also use fresh potatoes. Just be sure to shred or cube them and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese is traditional, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for added flavor.
• Soup Substitute: If you prefer, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile, or even make your own cream sauce.

Variations

Bacon Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

• Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture for a smoky, savory addition that pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness.

Spicy Cheesy Potatoes

• Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a little kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for extra spice.

Vegetarian Funeral Potatoes

• Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Funeral Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the topping and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover funeral potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

Can I Freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole without the topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the topping, and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as a side dish for a holiday meal or a comforting casserole for a family dinner, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. With their creamy, cheesy filling and crispy topping, they deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic casserole.

Happy cooking, and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of these Funeral Potatoes!