Funeral Potatoes

The term funeral potatoes might be a turn-off, but we’d urge you to take a closer look at this creamy, cheesy potato casserole with cornflakes. The funeral potatoes recipe earned its name from frequent appearances at after-funeral gatherings, but the dish itself is far from somber. It’s just as creamy as scalloped potatoes but with significantly less effort, thanks to pantry staples like condensed soup and frozen potatoes.

One of our most-loved easy potato recipes, this recipe for funeral potatoes is loaded with shredded hash brown potatoes, melty cheddar cheese and tangy sour cream, so it basically pairs well with everything. Serve it with holiday ham or turkey, or pair it with steak or grilled veggies for Sunday dinner. You can even top it with fried eggs for breakfast!

What are funeral potatoes?

Funeral potatoes is the name of a cheesy potato casserole dish made with cubed or shredded hash browns, sour cream, cheese and cream of chicken soup. The creamy potato filling is contrasted by a crunchy, buttery topping made with cornflakes or potato chips.

Why are they called funeral potatoes?

The funeral potato recipe gets its name from being served as a side dish at after-funeral luncheons. It’s often offered as a comforting funeral food for the family of someone who recently passed away, a kind gesture so families don’t have to cook during a difficult time. Despite the name, the dish isn’t just for those grieving. Cheesy potatoes with cornflakes are popular in the Midwest and Morman-populated areas, including Utah and Idaho, where the casserole is served at potlucks, family dinners and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes

• Potatoes: The recipe for funeral potatoes starts with a base of potatoes. We use a thawed package of frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, but cubed potatoes also work. A 30-ounce bag contains about 12-1/2 cups shredded potatoes.
• Sour cream: A hefty serving of sour cream gives funeral potatoes a tangy flavor and creamy consistency.
• Cream of chicken soup: Most condensed cream soups would work in this recipe. If you can’t find cream of chicken, try cream of mushroom or celery. For a low-sodium alternative, make homemade cream of chicken soup.
• Cheddar cheese: We like cheddar’s sharp flavor, but feel free to swap in another cheese, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
• Onion: If you’re cooking for picky eaters, grate the onion on a box grater. The tiny shreds will still impart savory flavor into the casserole but the texture will melt into the potatoes.
• Cornflakes and butter: Cornflakes add a crunchy texture to the funeral potatoes recipe. Toss the cornflakes with butter to help them brown and crisp up in the oven.

Directions

Step 1: Make the cheesy potato mixture

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, undiluted condensed soup, salt and pepper. Stir in the potatoes, cheese and onion. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the crunchy topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. Sprinkle it over the potato mixture.

Step 3: Bake the funeral potato recipe in the oven

Bake, uncovered, for 50 to 60 minutes or until golden brown.

Recipe Variations

• Add mix-ins: Toss in a handful of diced ham or chopped cooked bacon, or mix in green chiles or minced jalapenos to add heat.
• Use another topping: It’s widely disputed whether cornflakes or potato chips make better funeral potatoes. We say try them both and see which you prefer! You can also use other crushed toppings like tortilla chips, butter crackers, bread crumbs or french fried onions.
• Make it gluten-free: Use the sauce from our gluten-free scalloped potatoes recipe, or pick up a gluten-free condensed soup. Make sure your cornflakes are gluten-free, too, or use one of the alternatives suggested above.

How to Store Funeral Potatoes

Let the cheesy potatoes with cornflakes cool slightly, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat the funeral potato recipe in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can you make funeral potatoes ahead of time?

Funeral potatoes can be prepped ahead of time without the topping. Cover the casserole, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, remove the dish from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off. Add the cornflake topping, and bake as directed.

Can you freeze funeral potatoes?

You can freeze funeral potatoes before baking them; just prepare the casserole but do not add the crunchy topping. Cover and freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. To use, partially thaw it in the fridge overnight. Remove the dish from the fridge 30 minutes before baking, and add the buttery cornflake topping. Bake the casserole as directed, increasing the time as needed for a thermometer inserted in the center to read 165°.

Funeral Potato Tips

Can you make the recipe for funeral potatoes in the slow cooker?

You can make funeral potatoes in the oven or in the slow cooker. For a slow-cooker version similar to our cheesy potatoes recipe, combine the sour cream, undiluted condensed soup, salt and pepper in a slow cooker. Stir in the potatoes, cheese and onion. Slow-cook, covered, on low for four to five hours. Just before serving, sprinkle the potatoes with cornflakes.

Are funeral potatoes a Mormon tradition?

The origins of this cheesy potato casserole with cornflakes are a bit murky, but the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is often credited for the dish’s popularity. The philanthropic organization often includes this dish as part of a meal prepared for grieving families. The Latter-day Saint community has embraced the casserole and serves it at luncheons, potlucks and family gatherings.