Funeral Potatoes
Funeral Potatoes, also known as Party Potatoes, are a beloved casserole dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful crunch, making it a comforting and satisfying side dish for any occasion. This dish’s versatility allows it to pair beautifully with a wide range of entrees, making it a favorite for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and of course, as a comforting meal for those in mourning.
Why People Love Funeral Potatoes:
- Comforting and Hearty: The dish is rich, creamy, and filled with familiar flavors that evoke a sense of comfort and warmth.
- Versatile: Perfect for serving at various events, from casual breakfasts to more formal gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite ingredients or to accommodate dietary preferences.
Key Ingredients:
- Frozen Cubed Hash Browns: Forms the base of the casserole, providing a hearty potato element.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds richness and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Sour Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Cornflakes: Topped on the casserole for a satisfying crunchy texture.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations:
- Vegetables: Consider adding chopped green peppers or corn for extra flavor and a pop of color.
- Meats: Bacon crumbles or sausage crumbles can be added for a meatier casserole.
- Sour Cream Alternatives: Greek yogurt or buttermilk can replace sour cream for a similar texture with a slightly different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Funeral Potatoes can stand alone as a hearty side dish but also pair wonderfully with:
- Meats: Ideal alongside ham, grilled chicken, or meatloaf.
- Breakfast Foods: A great complement to scrambled eggs, omelets, or pancakes for a brunch spread.
- Vegetables: Serve with a side of mixed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole, tightly covered, for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm up in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until heated through, usually about 20-30 minutes if refrigerated, or longer if from frozen.
Whether you’re looking to comfort a friend, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a delicious and hearty side dish, Funeral Potatoes are a classic choice that’s sure to please. With their creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crunchy topping, these potatoes are a testament to the power of simple, comforting food to bring people together.
Funeral Potatoes
Equipment
- 13 x 9" baking pan
- Large Bowl
- Medium-sized bowl
Ingredients
For the Hash Browns:
- 1 2 lb. bag frozen cubed hash browns thawed
For the Sauce:
- 10 tablespoons salted butter melted and divided
- 1 10.5 oz. can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1/4 cup white onion finely diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- 3 cups cornflakes
- 1 teaspoon fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
Preparing Baking Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 13 x 9" baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
Mixing Potato Mixture:
- In a large bowl, stir together hash browns, 4 tablespoons of butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cheese until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Preparing Topping:
- In a medium-sized bowl, lightly crush cornflakes and toss them with the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter.
Adding Topping and Baking:
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potatoes.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown.
Serving:
- Top with parsley and serve hot.
- Enjoy your dish!
