Introduction to Funeral Potatoes
Why are they called Funeral Potatoes?
Funeral potatoes have a rather unusual name that reflects their popularity at church potlucks and family gatherings following a loss. While the dish may seem somber, it symbolizes comfort and support during times of grief. Essentially, it brings people together, serving as a heartwarming reminder of community and care. Despite its association with funerals, you’ll find these cheesy hash brown casseroles gracing tables at all sorts of gatherings, proving to be a beloved addition to any meal.
The appeal of cheesy hash brown casseroles
What makes funeral potatoes so irresistible? For starters, their creamy texture and rich flavor—think layers of crispy cornflakes, gooey cheese, and perfectly baked hash browns. It’s a delicious combination that feels indulgent yet homey, making it not just a side dish but a comforting staple.
These casseroles are also incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with chicken ham or turkey bacon, making them suitable for various occasions from casual dinners to festive celebrations. If you're looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings warmth and comfort, this is it. Plus, who can resist the nostalgia of a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate? Try these funeral potatoes at your next gathering; they just might become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes
Creating funeral potatoes is simple and satisfying, especially when you have the right ingredients on hand. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you gather everything you need.
Essential ingredients you'll need
- Frozen hash browns: 30 ounces (thawed)—you can choose between diced or shredded based on your texture preference.
- Sour cream: 2 cups for that creamy richness.
- Cream of chicken soup: A 10.5-ounce can adds flavor and moisture.
- Butter: 10 tablespoons of melted butter, divided, for a delightful buttery flavor in your dish.
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried minced onion to elevate the taste.
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar brings melty goodness.
- Corn flakes: 2 cups for that perfect crunchy topping.
Optional ingredients for customization
Feel free to add your own twist! Consider incorporating:
- Green onions or chives: For a pop of freshness.
- Turkey bacon: Crumbled, if you want some extra heartiness.
- Cheese variations: Try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Vegetables: Add cooked broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost.
These funeral potatoes can easily become your go-to comfort dish, adaptable for every occasion. Check out more tips for customizing your recipe on Tastes Better from Scratch. Happy cooking!
Preparing Funeral Potatoes
When it comes to comforting side dishes, Funeral Potatoes (also known as cheesy hash brown casserole) have earned a cherished spot at the table. Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they also bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Let's walk through the preparation process step-by-step, ensuring your dish is perfectly baked and brimming with flavor.
Thaw the hash browns
The first step in crafting your delectable funeral potatoes is to properly thaw those frozen hash browns. You can either let them sit in your refrigerator overnight or employ a quicker method by spreading them on a baking sheet and popping them in an oven set to 200°F for about 20 minutes until thawed. This is crucial because thawed potatoes will mix more evenly, giving your casserole a delightful texture.
Preheat the oven
While your hash browns are thawing, take a moment to preheat your oven to 350°F. Starting with a properly heated oven will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and achieves that golden-brown crust we all savor.
Combine the creamy mixture
Next, it’s time to prepare the creamy goodness that will envelop your hash browns. In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 2 cups of sour cream
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- 6 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried minced onion
Mix these ingredients thoroughly until smooth. The allure of creamy textures is key to making your funeral potatoes irresistible.
Fold in hash browns and cheese
Once your creamy mixture is ready, gently fold in the thawed hash browns and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined, and then transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 metal baking dish.
Prepare the cornflake topping
What’s better than a creamy casserole? One that has a delightful crunch! To create that signature topping, take 2 cups of cornflakes and crush them in a large zip-top bag. You can crush them to your desired level of coarseness—some prefer a fine dust while others enjoy larger pieces. After crushing, pour in 4 tablespoons of melted butter and mix until evenly coated.
Assemble and bake the casserole
Now for the fun part! Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the prepared hash brown mixture in your baking dish. This is where the magic happens as it will transform into a crispy topping. Bake your casserole uncovered for 40-50 minutes, until it's bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve these funeral potatoes alongside chicken ham, roasted turkey, or beef dishes to create a comforting meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the smiles at the table!
Variations on Funeral Potatoes
Funeral potatoes are delicious and versatile, making them perfect for experimentation. Here are some delightful variations to elevate your dish:
Add-ins Like Vegetables or Proteins
Consider incorporating fresh vegetables or proteins to customize your funeral potatoes. Chopped broccoli or sautéed mushrooms add great flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a protein boost, try adding turkey bacon or diced chicken ham to the mix!
Different Cheese Options
Cheese is key in funeral potatoes, so don’t hesitate to mix it up! While shredded cheddar is a classic choice, consider using Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little kick, or even a blend of all three for a truly cheesy experience.
With these suggestions, you can make your funeral potatoes uniquely your own while keeping them comforting and delicious!
Cooking tips and notes for Funeral Potatoes
Achieving the perfect texture
For funeral potatoes, the key to that creamy, satisfying texture is thawing your hash browns completely. Make sure to mix them well with your base; a good stir ensures all those cheesy, buttery flavors coat every piece. If you enjoy a crispy topping, ensure you crush the cornflakes finely—this will create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
Storing leftovers properly
If you have any leftover funeral potatoes, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing them before adding the cornflake topping. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of funeral potatoes whenever you need a warm dish!
Serving Suggestions for Funeral Potatoes
Best Dishes to Pair Them With
Funeral potatoes are a delightful, cheesy side that complements a variety of main courses. They shine when served alongside:
- Chicken Ham: The creaminess of the potatoes enhances the savory flavors of chicken ham wonderfully.
- Oven Roasted Turkey: This classic pairing makes for a heartwarming holiday meal.
- Grilled Flank Steak: The crispy topping of the potatoes contrasts nicely with the steak's juiciness.
Looking for an extra touch? A side of steamed vegetables adds freshness and balance to your plate.
Creative Serving Ideas
When it comes to serving funeral potatoes, think outside the casserole dish! Here are some fun ideas:
- Individual Bakes: Use muffin tins for single-serving portions, perfect for potlucks or individual plates.
- Toppings Galore: Add toppings like chives, crispy Turkey Bacon, or even a drizzle of spicy ranch for a tasty twist.
Taking a little time to present dishes in a unique way can elevate your meal and impress guests! So grab your spatula and let’s make those potatoes the star of your next gathering.
Time Breakdown for Funeral Potatoes
Preparation Time
Getting your funeral potatoes ready takes about 10 minutes. This includes mixing the ingredients, which is quick and simple—perfect for busy days!
Cooking Time
Once your dish is assembled, pop it in the oven for 50 minutes. This allows it to become deliciously golden and bubbly, making it hard to resist.
Total Time
In total, you’ll need about 1 hour to whip up this comforting side dish. It's worth every minute when you taste that cheesy goodness!
Nutritional Facts for Funeral Potatoes
Calories
Funeral potatoes pack a hearty punch with 336 calories per serving. While they are rich in flavor and comfort, knowing the calorie content helps you balance them within your overall meal plan.
Carbohydrates
These cheesy delights contain about 17 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Perfect for a side dish, they offer a great boost of energy for an active day, making them a popular choice at gatherings.
Protein
In each serving of funeral potatoes, you'll find around 7 grams of protein. This moderate protein content can help you feel fuller longer, complementing meat dishes like chicken ham or turkey bacon beautifully.
If you're interested in more nutritional insights, consider exploring the USDA FoodData Central for detailed breakdowns. Knowing what’s in your food can empower you to make better choices, especially for comforting classic dishes like these!
FAQs about Funeral Potatoes
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Funeral potatoes can be prepared a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole without baking it, cover tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, and it’ll be as delicious as ever!
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for alternatives, there are a couple of easy swaps. Many people use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor or consider a homemade version with ingredients like chicken or vegetable broth mixed with a bit of cream. Check out this homemade soup guide for more options.
How do I freeze Funeral Potatoes?
Freezing is a fantastic option! Prepare your funeral potatoes as directed but skip the cornflake topping before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy them, let the casserole thaw in the fridge overnight, top with cornflakes, and then bake as usual for a comforting meal.
Conclusion on Funeral Potatoes
In summary, funeral potatoes are a comfort food classic that can elevate any meal. Their cheesy goodness, combined with crispy cornflake topping, creates a dish both nostalgic and satisfying. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, you'll surely want to prepare this heartwarming recipe time and again.
For more tasty side dishes, check out The Spruce Eats for creative casserole ideas or visit Bon Appétit for quick and easy recipes that impress!
Funeral Potatoes
Equipment
- 9x13 metal baking dish
Ingredients
Hash Brown Casserole
- 30 ounces frozen hash browns diced or shredded, THAWED
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup or homemade
- 10 tablespoons butter divided, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups corn flakes cereal
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Allow potatoes to thaw in your fridge overnight, or spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 200 degrees for about 20 minutes, until thawed.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 6 Tablespoons of melted butter, salt, pepper and dried onion in a bowl. Mix well.
- Add potatoes and shredded cheese and stir to combine. Spoon mixture into a single layer in a 9x13'' pan.
- Add cornflakes to a large ziplock bag and crush gently with your hands or a rolling pin.
- Add remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes and combine well. Sprinkle mixture over potatoes.
- Bake uncovered at 350 F for 40-50 minutes.
- Serve these with baked ham, oven roasted turkey, or flank steak.
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