Funeral potatoes are that delightful side dish that dances on the line between comforting and indulgent. This creamy casserole, layered with crispy toppings, has made its way into countless gatherings, both joyous and somber. It features frozen hash brown potatoes mixed with a savory cheese sauce, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. If you’ve never had the chance to try this dish, just think of it as a warm hug on a plate—a perfect addition to any family potluck or holiday celebration.

Pin this for later!

The first time I had funeral potatoes, I was at a family gathering, and I couldn’t believe something so simple could be so incredibly delicious. The combination of melted cheese, tender potatoes, and a crispy topping blew me away. What I love most is how easy this dish is to prepare—just a bit of chopping, mixing, and baking, and you’re ready to serve a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Funeral Potatoes
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Funeral Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With only 5 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together effortlessly.
Irresistible Flavor: The gooey cheese and crunchy topping create a mouthwatering texture.
Eye-Catching Appeal: It looks lovely when served, with its golden, bubbly topping calling out for seconds.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for brunches, potlucks, or even as a weeknight dinner side.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or lighter versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup salted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the onions for maximum flavor. You can use unsalted butter if preferred.
1 onion (diced): Brings a delicious depth to the dish. Sweet onions work well if you want a milder taste.
1/4 cup flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce. Whole wheat flour can substitute it for a healthier option.
1 cup milk (whole or 2%): Creates a creamy texture; use whatever milk you have on hand, such as almond or oat milk for dairy-free versions.
2 cups chicken broth: Provides a savory base; vegetable broth can replace it for a vegetarian option.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor; adjust to your preference.
1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a bit of warmth; swap it out for a milder spice if needed.
1 1/2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (grated): Melty, creamy goodness. Feel free to use mozzarella for a milder flavor.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (grated): Gives a nice bite; use mild cheddar if you prefer a less intense flavor.
1 cup sour cream: Ingredients like Greek yogurt or cream cheese can act as substitutes for a tangy profile.
28 to 30 ounce pkg. frozen shredded hash brown potatoes: The star of the dish, providing heft and comfort. You could also use freshly grated potatoes for a fresher taste.
1 cup kettle cooked potato chips (crushed): Adds crunch and a salty topping. If you’re avoiding chips, crushed crackers can work too.
1 cup corn flakes cereal (crushed): Provides that extra crispy finish; you can substitute other types of cereals if needed.

How to Make Funeral Potatoes

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.
Sauté the onions: In a large skillet, melt the 1/2 cup of salted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Make the sauce: Stir in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, which will help thicken your sauce. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk and 2 cups of chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and has thickened slightly. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.
Add the cheese: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the 1 cup of sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of grated Monterey Jack, and 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese until all is melted and smooth.
Combine with hash browns: Add the 28 to 30-ounce package of frozen shredded hash brown potatoes to the cheese mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated. Break up any large clumps to ensure even distribution.
Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture into the prepared 9×13 baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Add the toppings: In a small bowl, crush the kettle-cooked potato chips and corn flakes, then sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly. Let it rest slightly before serving, allowing those savory flavors to settle.

Storing & Reheating

Once cooled, you can store leftover funeral potatoes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly again. The texture might soften slightly after freezing, but fresh toppings can always help refresh the dish!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Keep your onions moving in the skillet to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Make sure the cheese is freshly grated, which melts better compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.
For an added flavor punch, try adding cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham into the potato mixture.
If using fresh potatoes, soak them in cold water for about an hour before shredding to keep them from browning.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps meld the flavors and makes serving easier.

Funeral potatoes offer a delightful mix of creamy textures and comforting flavors that are hard to resist. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just because, this dish is sure to be a hit at the table. Don’t hesitate to get creative and mix in your favorite ingredients. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish that is as rich in tradition as it is in flavor!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make funeral potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, bake it right from the fridge; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic, but gouda, pepper jack, or even cream cheese can add a unique twist. Each combination gives a distinct flavor and texture, making every batch a new adventure!

Is there a vegetarian option?

Definitely! Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip any meat additions. The cheese and potato flavors will still shine through, ensuring everyone enjoys this dish.

Can I freeze funeral potatoes?

You can freeze funeral potatoes before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake it from frozen, extend the cooking time by about 20-30 minutes to ensure it heats through thoroughly.

More Dinner Recipes

👉 If you make my Funeral Potatoes recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating — it really helps others discover the recipe.
Follow me on Pinterest for more easy recipes.