Cozy Funeral Potatoes

There's something deeply comforting about a dish that brings people together, and this Cozy Funeral Potatoes Casserole does exactly that. With its golden, crispy hashbrown topping and creamy, cheesy interior, this American classic has been a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday tables for generations. The name may sound somber, but the flavors are anything but—this casserole is rich, indulgent, and utterly satisfying. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply craving comfort food on a quiet evening, this easy-to-make side dish delivers warmth in every bite.

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The beauty of funeral potatoes lies in their simplicity. Frozen hash browns form the base, eliminating the need for peeling and chopping fresh potatoes. Combined with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a creamy soup, the casserole becomes luxuriously rich without requiring fancy techniques. The topping—shredded hash browns tossed with butter and paprika—bakes into a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior. It's a dish that looks impressive but comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz/900 g) bag frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 2 cups (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups (480 ml) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 (10.5 oz/295 g) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cups (about 225 g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine the diced hash brown potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly incorporated.

Step 3

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.

Step 4

In a medium bowl, toss the shredded hash browns with 2 tablespoons melted butter and paprika until coated.

Step 5

Evenly sprinkle the hashbrown mixture over the casserole.

Step 6

Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 7

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Thawing the hash browns completely is essential for achieving the right texture. Excess moisture can make the casserole watery, so pat the thawed potatoes dry with paper towels if needed. When mixing the base, ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed so every serving has the perfect balance of cheese, creaminess, and seasoning. For the topping, toss the shredded hash browns thoroughly with melted butter and paprika to ensure even browning. If you prefer an extra-crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning. Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve neat portions.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute cream of mushroom soup for the cream of chicken. To add extra crunch, mix 1 cup of crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers into the hashbrown topping. If you love bold flavors, stir in chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or diced jalapeños into the base mixture. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties—Monterey Jack, Colby, or a sharp white cheddar all work beautifully. For a make-ahead option, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the topping and bake just before serving, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Serviervorschläge

Funeral potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes. Serve alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, grilled steak, or your favorite holiday roast. For a lighter contrast, pair with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or serve with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, or glazed carrots. This casserole also makes an excellent brunch dish when served with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. At potlucks and gatherings, it holds up well on a buffet table and can be easily reheated. Leftovers store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat well in the oven or microwave, making it a practical choice for meal prep.

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This Cozy Funeral Potatoes Casserole is more than just a side dish—it's a tradition, a comfort, and a crowd-pleaser all in one. With its creamy, cheesy base and irresistibly crispy topping, it's no wonder this recipe has stood the test of time. Whether you're bringing it to a potluck, serving it at a holiday feast, or simply enjoying it on a cozy weeknight, this casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious, it's a recipe you'll return to again and again.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes are used in this dish?

Frozen diced hash brown potatoes are used for a tender base, with shredded hash browns for the crispy topping.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian-friendly version.

→ How do I get the topping crispy and golden?

Toss shredded hash browns with melted butter and paprika before sprinkling on top and bake uncovered until golden.

→ Are there any recommended add-ins?

Chopped green onions or cooked bacon add extra flavor; crushed cornflakes or crackers provide additional crunch.

→ What is the best way to serve this dish?

Serve warm as a side with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.