Deliciously Cheesy Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are my go to move when I need a dish that makes everyone feel taken care of, even on a stressful day. You know the kind of gathering where you want something warm, filling, and zero drama to put together. This casserole is creamy, super cheesy, and somehow always the first thing to disappear from the table. I have made it for potlucks, family holidays, and random Tuesdays when I needed comfort food that actually comforts. If you have ever stood in front of the fridge thinking, what can I bring that people will truly eat, this is it.

Essential Ingredients: What Makes These Cheesy Potatoes So Comforting?

The magic is that nothing is fancy, but everything works together. You get creamy, salty, cheesy, and that buttery crunch on top. It tastes like something your favorite aunt would scoop onto your plate and insist you take seconds.

Here is what you need for a classic 9×13 pan of Deliciously Cheesy Funeral Potatoes:

• Potatoes: frozen hash browns or shredded potatoes, or cooked shredded russets
• Sour cream: makes the casserole rich and tangy
• Cream of chicken or cream of mushroom: the creamy binder that holds it together
• Butter: some goes in the casserole, some goes on the topping
• Shredded cheddar: I like sharp, but mild works too
• Onion: finely diced, or onion powder if you want it extra easy
• Salt and pepper: do not skip seasoning your potatoes

One quick note from experience: shred your own cheese if you can. The pre shredded bags are convenient, but freshly shredded melts smoother and feels extra gooey in the best way.

If you are in a potato mood in general, I also keep this one bookmarked for cozy dinners: creamy scalloped potatoes. Different vibe, same comfort level.

The Potato Debate: Frozen Hash Browns vs. Real Russet Potatoes

People get passionate about this, and I get it. Potatoes are personal.

Frozen hash browns win for speed and consistency. They bake up soft, they are already shredded, and you do not have to mess with peeling. If you use frozen, let them thaw a bit first so the casserole is not watery.

Real russet potatoes win for that homemade feel. If I have time, I bake or boil them until just tender, cool them, then shred. You get a slightly more potato forward texture, and it feels a little heartier.

My honest take: for most gatherings, frozen hash browns are the move. No one is going to complain, and you can focus on the cheesy goodness. If you are making Deliciously Cheesy Funeral Potatoes for a holiday, either one will make people happy.

How to Make Funeral Potatoes Step-by-Step (Easy 9×13 Casserole)

This is the part I love. You basically mix, spread, top, and bake. No stress.

My simple step-by-step method

Preheat your oven to 350 F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with butter or spray.

In a big bowl, mix together:

• 32 ounces thawed frozen hash browns
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 can cream of chicken or cream of mushroom
• 2 cups shredded cheddar
• 1 half cup melted butter
• 1 third cup diced onion
• 1 teaspoon salt and half teaspoon pepper, or to taste

Spread it evenly into your dish. Smooth the top with a spoon so every bite bakes evenly.

Now you add the topping (we will talk about that crunchy part next). Bake uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and the top is golden. Let it sit 10 minutes before serving. That little rest helps it set up so it scoops nicely.

When I am planning the meal, I like to pair these with something simple and savory. If you want an easy main that is basically no work, this is a solid option: crockpot garlic butter beef bites potatoes.

The Secret to the Signature Crunchy Cornflake Topping

This is the part that makes people go back for another scoop. Cornflakes sound a little odd until you try it, then it makes perfect sense.

Here is what works best for me: lightly crush the cornflakes so you still have some bigger pieces. You want texture, not dust. Mix the crushed flakes with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Tips for maximum crunch: do not cover the casserole while baking, and do not overload the butter. Too much butter can make the topping heavy instead of crispy. Also, spread the topping all the way to the edges because those corner bites are the best bites.

Top Variations: Ritz Crackers, Panko, and Potato Chip Toppings

If you do not have cornflakes, you still have options. I have tried all of these, usually because I realized last minute I was out of cornflakes. Life happens.

Ritz crackers are buttery and cozy. Crush them and mix with melted butter just like cornflakes.

Panko gives a lighter crunch. I like to toast it in a skillet with butter for a couple minutes first, then sprinkle it on. Not required, but it levels it up.

Potato chips are salty and fun. Use plain or cheddar chips, crush, and sprinkle right before baking. Watch closely near the end so they do not get too dark.

For another crispy potato situation that everyone loves, check out these crispy parmesan potatoes. Totally different dish, but that crunchy factor hits the same spot.

Dietary Swaps: Gluten-Free and Vegetarian Cream of Mushroom Options

If you are cooking for a group, it is nice to have a few easy swaps in your back pocket.

Gluten free: use gluten free cornflakes or gluten free crackers for the topping. Then swap the canned soup for a gluten free version, or make a quick homemade sauce with butter, a little gluten free flour, broth, and milk.

Vegetarian: use cream of mushroom, and make sure it is vegetarian. Some brands are, some are not, so check the label. You can also make a simple mushroom sauce at home if you prefer. Use sautéed mushrooms, butter, flour, milk, and a pinch of garlic powder.

These swaps still give you that creamy center that makes Deliciously Cheesy Funeral Potatoes feel like the ultimate comfort side.

Flavor Boosters: Adding Bacon, Ham, or Jalapeños for a Zesty Kick

Classic is perfect, but sometimes I want to give it a little personality.

Bacon: stir in chopped cooked bacon, and sprinkle a little extra on top if you are feeling generous. It adds smokiness and salt.

Ham: great for using up leftovers. Dice it small so it spreads through the casserole. This turns the dish into more of a main, especially with a salad.

Jalapeños: if you want a mild kick, use diced pickled jalapeños. If you want more heat, use fresh and add a pinch of cayenne. I also like adding a handful of sliced green onions at the end for a fresh pop.

If you like that sweet and savory side dish thing at potlucks, you might also like candied sweet potatoes. Different flavor, same comfort energy.

Can You Make Funeral Potatoes Ahead? Preparation and Overnight Tips

Yes, and this is one of the reasons I love making them for gatherings. You can fully assemble the casserole base the day before.

Here is my routine: mix everything, spread it into the dish, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Keep the topping separate. In the morning, I crush the cornflakes and mix with butter, then store that in a container until baking time.

When you are ready to bake, pull the dish out while the oven heats up. Add topping and bake. If it is going in cold from the fridge, it may need an extra 10 to 15 minutes.

Slow Cooker Instructions: How to Make Crockpot Funeral Potatoes

When oven space is tight, the slow cooker saves the day. I have done this for holidays when the oven was packed with everything else.

Lightly grease the slow cooker. Mix the casserole ingredients as usual and add them to the crockpot. Cook on low for about 3 to 4 hours, or until hot all the way through. Stir once halfway if you can.

For the topping, you have two choices. You can toast the topping separately in a skillet with butter, then sprinkle it on each serving. Or you can put the topping on near the end, cover slightly ajar if your lid allows, and let it warm through. It will not get quite as crisp as the oven version, but it is still tasty.

If slow cooker meals are your thing, this one is also super practical for busy nights: slow cooker cheesy potatoes kielbasa.

Storage and Freezing: How to Reheat Leftovers Without Getting Soggy

Leftovers are honestly great, but the topping can soften. The goal is to bring back a little of that texture.

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat: the oven or toaster oven works best. Bake at 350 F until hot. If you are using the microwave, do short bursts and do not overheat, because that is when it can turn a little wet.

Freezing: you can freeze the casserole base pretty well. For best results, freeze it without the topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add fresh topping, then bake. The texture is closest to fresh that way.

What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes: Perfect Main Dish Pairings

This casserole is rich, so I like pairing it with simple mains and something fresh on the side. Here are a few ideas that always work:

• Roast chicken or baked chicken thighs
• Ham, especially for holidays
• Meatloaf or simple baked meatballs
• Green salad with a tangy dressing to cut the richness
• Steamed broccoli or green beans with a little lemon

If you want a bright potato side for another night, these greek potatoes lemon are awesome with chicken or fish.

Common Questions

Can I use cream of mushroom instead of cream of chicken?

Yes. I do it all the time, especially when serving vegetarian guests. The flavor is slightly earthier and still really good.

Why are my potatoes watery?

This usually happens if the hash browns were not thawed or had lots of ice crystals. Let them thaw and blot lightly with paper towels if they seem wet.

Can I make Deliciously Cheesy Funeral Potatoes without onion?

Totally. Skip it, or use a little onion powder for a gentler flavor. No one will call the police.

How do I get the topping extra crisp?

Do not cover the casserole while baking, and make sure the topping is spread evenly. If you want, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, but watch it closely.

What size pan should I use?

A 9×13 is the standard. If you use a smaller dish, it will be thicker and may need more bake time.

A Cozy Final Scoop Before You Go

If you want a reliable crowd pleaser, Deliciously Cheesy Funeral Potatoes are hard to beat. They are simple, forgiving, and they bring that creamy comfort that makes people linger at the table. If you like seeing other takes, this Funeral Potatoes Recipe – Tastes Better From Scratch is another solid reference to compare ingredient ratios and topping ideas. Make a pan this week, and do not be surprised when someone asks you to bring it to the next gathering too.

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