Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes: A Comforting Casserole for Any Occasion

Pay homage to the classic comfort food with this heartwarming recipe for Cheesy Funeral Potatoes. Also known as “potato casserole” or “party potatoes,” this beloved dish is a staple at gatherings and potlucks, providing a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying experience with every bite. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a hearty main course, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are sure to bring comfort and joy to your table. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this comforting casserole!

Ingredients:

• 2 (10 oz.) cans cream of chicken soup
• 4 cups potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 1/2 cups corn flakes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and mashed potatoes with the cream of chicken soup, grated cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Prepare Topping: In a separate mixing bowl, crush the corn flakes into smaller pieces. Drizzle the melted butter over the crushed corn flakes and toss until the flakes are evenly coated.
5. Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttered corn flakes evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the baking dish, covering it completely.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Remove the Cheesy Funeral Potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.

Cook’s Tips and Variations:

• Potato Variation: While russet potatoes are commonly used for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or red potatoes for added color.
• Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack, for unique flavor combinations.
• Topping Options: Instead of corn flakes, you can use crushed potato chips, buttered breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions for a different texture and flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Adaptations:

Keto Version:

• Substitute cauliflower florets or shredded cauliflower for the potatoes to make this dish keto-friendly.
• Use a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream instead of cream of chicken soup for a low-carb alternative.

Low-Carb Version:

• Reduce the amount of potatoes and increase the proportion of cheese and sour cream to lower the carb content of the casserole.
• Omit the corn flakes topping and sprinkle the top of the casserole with extra cheese for a low-carb option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make Cheesy Funeral Potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply add the corn flakes topping just before baking.

2. Can I freeze Cheesy Funeral Potatoes? While the casserole can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

3. What can I serve with Cheesy Funeral Potatoes? Cheesy Funeral Potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. They also make a delicious side dish for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the potato mixture? Certainly! Feel free to add diced ham, cooked bacon, chopped green onions, or diced bell peppers to the potato mixture for additional flavor and texture.

Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering creamy potatoes, savory cheese, and a crispy topping in every bite. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a main course, this timeless casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. With its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday feasts. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in the comforting goodness of this classic dish!