Cheesy Funeral Potatoes, also known as hash brown casserole, is a beloved dish that’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any time you need a comforting, crowd-pleasing side. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a great addition to any meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cornflake cereal (crushed)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter, mixing until the cornflakes are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered cornflake mixture over the top of the hash brown casserole.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Notes
- Hash Browns: Make sure the hash browns are thawed before mixing to ensure even cooking. If they are still frozen, the casserole may take longer to bake and may not cook evenly.
- Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different flavor.
- Soup Substitute: You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Variations
Bacon Cheesy Potatoes
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon to the hash brown mixture for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Spicy Cheesy Potatoes
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Loaded Cheesy Potatoes
- Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped green onions and 1/2 cup of cooked crumbled sausage for a loaded version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I Freeze Funeral Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers 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 in the microwave for a quicker option.
What Should I Serve With Cheesy Funeral Potatoes?
This dish pairs well with roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or beef. It also works well alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the casserole.
Cheesy Funeral Potatoes is a comforting, cheesy, and creamy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for family gatherings, holidays, or whenever you need a bit of comfort food. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite.
Happy cooking, and enjoy this comforting classic!
