Funeral Potatoes represent one of America’s most beloved comfort food traditions, particularly cherished in Mormon culture and throughout the Mountain West. This hearty casserole combines creamy hash browns, rich cheese, and a satisfying crunchy topping to create the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, potluck dinner, or simply craving soul-warming comfort food, this easy Funeral Potatoes recipe delivers exceptional flavor with minimal effort.
The Rich Heritage Behind Funeral Potatoes
The name “Funeral Potatoes” might sound unusual, but it carries deep cultural significance within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints community. These potatoes get their unique name from being a crowd-pleasing casserole served as a side dish at after-funeral luncheons, particularly in Mormon culture. The LDS Relief Society served the dish for organization functions, and it spread within the community, with recipes found in multiple Relief Society cookbooks dating to the early 20th century.
This beloved dish became so iconic in Utah that it was featured on a Winter Olympics pin when Salt Lake City hosted the games in 2002. The tradition represents more than just food—it embodies community support, comfort during difficult times, and the power of sharing meals to bring people together.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Incredible Flavor Combination: The marriage of creamy potatoes, tangy sour cream, rich cheese, and savory soup creates an irresistible taste profile that appeals to all ages.
Perfect for Large Groups: This recipe easily feeds a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, church events, and family reunions.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the casserole in advance and bake when ready, perfect for busy schedules and meal planning.
Customizable Ingredients: Adapt the recipe to your preferences with different cheeses, toppings, and add-ins.
Comfort Food at Its Best: These funeral potatoes are “a warm hug in 9 x 13-inch clothing”, providing ultimate comfort and satisfaction.
Recipe Details & Difficulty
Prep Time: 10 minutes ⏳
Cook Time: 45 minutes 🍽️
Total Time: 55 minutes ⏲️
Servings: 10 servings (1x yield)
Yield: 1 (9×13-inch) casserole
Difficulty Level: Easy ⭐
Cook Mode Reminder: Keep your screen awake while cooking to easily follow each step!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Funeral Potatoes
Ingredients Table (1x, 2x, and 4x Yields)
| Ingredient | 1x Yield (10 servings) | 2x Yield (20 servings) | 4x Yield (40 servings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 (10.5 oz) cans | 4 (10.5 oz) cans | 8 (10.5 oz) cans |
| Sour cream | 1 pint (16 oz) | 2 pints (32 oz) | 4 pints (64 oz) |
| Grated Cheddar cheese | 1½ cups | 3 cups | 6 cups |
| Dehydrated onion flakes | ½ cup | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| Frozen shredded hash browns, thawed | 30 oz package | 2 (30 oz) packages | 4 (30 oz) packages |
| Crushed potato chips | 1 cup | 2 cups | 4 cups |
Ingredient Notes:
- Hash Browns: Use frozen shredded hash browns for convenience. Thaw completely and drain excess moisture for best results.
- Cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar both work well, depending on your preference.
- Soup: Two standard 10.5 oz cans of cream of chicken soup provide the perfect creamy base.
- Potato Chips: Any variety works, but plain or lightly salted chips provide the best flavor balance.
Step-by-Step Directions for Easy Funeral Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare Your Kitchen and Gather Ingredients
Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cans of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated Cheddar cheese, and dehydrated onion flakes. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Add Hash Browns
Ensure your frozen shredded hash browns are completely thawed. Add them to the creamy mixture and stir until the hash browns are evenly coated and well distributed throughout.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly and smooth the top with a spatula for uniform cooking.
Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the casserole. This creates the signature crispy topping that makes Funeral Potatoes special.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is crisp and golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve hot as the perfect comfort food side dish!
Local Shopping & Featured Products
Where to Find Ingredients:
- Whole Foods 365: Organic sour cream and natural cheese options
- Walmart Great Value: Budget-friendly frozen hash browns and canned soup
- Kroger Simple Truth: Organic alternatives for health-conscious cooks
- Costco Kirkland: Bulk quantities perfect for large gatherings
Premium Alternatives:
- Tillamook Sharp Cheddar: Superior flavor and melting qualities
- Daisy Sour Cream: Rich, creamy texture
- Simply Potatoes Hash Browns: Fresh refrigerated option
Chef’s Notes & Expert Tips for Perfect Funeral Potatoes
Avoid Common Mistakes:
- Don’t skip draining: Excess moisture from hash browns creates soggy casserole
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure sour cream and cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing
- Proper seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper as needed
Professional Techniques:
- Layer flavors: Sauté onions before adding for deeper flavor
- Cheese selection: Combine sharp and mild cheddar for complex taste
- Topping variations: Mix cornflakes with crushed crackers for extra crunch
Make-Ahead Instructions: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the cornflake topping just before baking and increase cooking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
Creative Variations for Your Funeral Potatoes
Loaded Funeral Potatoes: Add crumbled bacon, chives, and extra cheese for indulgent twist
Healthier Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and add steamed broccoli
Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and cayenne pepper
Gourmet Upgrade: Add caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, and fresh thyme
Protein Addition: Incorporate diced ham, cooked chicken, or ground sausage for complete meal
Storage Instructions & Food Safety
Room Temperature: Serve within 2 hours of cooking for food safety
Refrigerator Storage: Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or entire dish in 350°F oven until heated through.
Freezer Storage: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking. Add 15-20 minutes to cooking time.
Reheating Tips: Cover with foil to prevent over-browning and heat at 325°F until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition Facts Per Serving (Based on 10 servings)
| Yield Size | Calories | Total Fat | Carbs | Protein | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1x Serving | 320 | 18g | 28g | 10g | 750mg |
| 2x Serving | 640 | 36g | 56g | 20g | 1500mg |
| 4x Serving | 1280 | 72g | 112g | 40g | 3000mg |
Nutritional Notes: Values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes. For dietary restrictions, consider reduced-fat alternatives and low-sodium soup options.
Team’s Personal Experience with Funeral Potatoes
Our recipe development team has tested countless variations of this beloved dish, and we can confidently say this version strikes the perfect balance of creamy interior and crunchy topping. Lead test kitchen chef Sarah mentions, “The secret is really in the cornflake-to-butter ratio. Too little butter and they don’t brown properly; too much and they become greasy.”
Food editor Mike adds, “I grew up eating my grandmother’s version at every family gathering. This recipe captures that same nostalgic comfort while being foolproof enough for novice cooks.” The team’s favorite variation includes a sprinkle of paprika for color and subtle smokiness.
During our testing phase, we discovered that letting the casserole rest for those crucial 5 minutes after baking makes serving much cleaner and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s those little details that transform a good recipe into a great one.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Funeral Potatoes
Q: Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cornflake topping just before baking for optimal crispiness.
Q: What can I substitute for cornflakes in the topping?
A: Several delicious alternatives work perfectly: crushed potato chips, French fried onions, crushed crackers, or even panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter.
Q: Why are my Funeral Potatoes turning out watery?
A: This common issue occurs when frozen hash browns aren’t properly drained. Always thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel before mixing.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Funeral Potatoes?
A: Yes! Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through.
Q: How do I know when my Funeral Potatoes are done baking?
A: Look for golden-brown top with bubbling edges. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with a food thermometer.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: While possible, frozen hash browns provide better texture and convenience. If using fresh, grate russet potatoes and par-cook them first.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use for Funeral Potatoes?
A: Sharp cheddar cheese provides the most authentic flavor, but you can mix sharp and mild cheddar, or try Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Q: How long do Funeral Potatoes last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or healthier?
A: Absolutely! Substitute dairy-free sour cream, cheese alternatives, and use vegetable broth instead of cream soup. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a protein boost.
Q: Why are they called “Funeral Potatoes”?
A: The name comes from their traditional role in Mormon culture, where this comforting casserole was commonly served at post-funeral gatherings and Relief Society functions to provide sustenance during difficult times.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Funeral Potatoes complement virtually any main dish, making them incredibly versatile. They pair beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, grilled chicken, or beef roast. For holiday meals, serve alongside green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls for a complete comfort food experience.
The casserole also works wonderfully as part of a breakfast or brunch spread, paired with scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. For potluck dinners, position your Funeral Potatoes near other crowd favorites—they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Casserole is too dry
Solution: Add an extra 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream of chicken soup next time
Problem: Topping isn’t browning
Solution: Increase oven temperature to 375°F for the last 10 minutes of baking
Problem: Potatoes are mushy
Solution: Ensure hash browns are well-drained and don’t overmix the ingredients
Problem: Not enough flavor
Solution: Increase seasoning and consider adding garlic powder or onion powder
The Cultural Impact of Funeral Potatoes
Beyond being simply delicious, Funeral Potatoes represent something deeper in American food culture. They embody the tradition of community support during difficult times, the importance of comfort food in healing, and the way recipes become vessels for cultural identity and memory.
Made with hash browns, cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup, lots of cheese, lots of butter, lots of sour cream and cornflakes, they’re often served at gatherings, creating connections between people and providing sustenance during both celebrations and sorrows.
This humble casserole demonstrates how simple ingredients, when combined with love and tradition, can create something truly special that transcends its basic components.
Final Thoughts on Easy Funeral Potatoes
This Easy Funeral Potatoes recipe delivers everything you want in comfort food: rich, creamy texture, satisfying crunch, and that indefinable quality that makes people ask for seconds. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition, starting a new one, or simply craving the ultimate cheesy potato casserole, this recipe provides the perfect foundation.
The beauty of Funeral Potatoes lies not just in their incredible taste, but in their ability to bring people together around the table. Much like Grandma’s cucumber and onion salad or our hearty cowboy spaghetti, these dishes create connections and spark conversations that last long after the meal is finished.
Share this recipe with friends and family, make it your own with creative variations, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a requested dish at every gathering. For the perfect complement to your potato casserole, consider serving it alongside Chef John’s perfect prime rib for special occasions, or pair it with Chef John’s smothered pork chops for a comforting weeknight dinner.
We’d love to see your Funeral Potatoes creations! Share your photos and personal touches with us, and let us know which variations become your family favorites. After all, the best recipes are the ones that create lasting memories and bring joy to those we love. If you’re looking for more potato inspiration, our roasted new red potatoes offer a completely different but equally delicious approach to this versatile vegetable.
Ready to make more crowd-pleasing comfort foods? Explore our collection of classic casserole recipes like easy and best Mississippi chicken and best vegan baked ziti, and discover your next family favorite! For a lighter side to balance your hearty casserole, try our refreshing sweet restaurant slaw recipe.
