Homemade Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns

There’s something magical about a dish that warms the soul and brings people together. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, this creamy, cheesy comfort food never fails to delight. The golden crust, the melty cheese, and that irresistible crunch—it’s pure nostalgia on a plate.

Rooted in Midwestern traditions, this beloved recipe has been passed down through generations. It’s simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples—frozen hash browns, a rich cream sauce, and a crispy topping that seals in all the goodness. Every bite feels like a hug from home.

We’re sharing our foolproof method so you can recreate this crowd-pleaser anytime. Whether you’re honoring family traditions or discovering it for the first time, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.

Key Takeaways

• A classic comfort food perfect for gatherings.
• Easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Features a creamy filling and crispy topping for the best texture.
• Rooted in Midwestern and cultural traditions.
• Great for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

What Are Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns?

Few dishes carry as much history and heart as this beloved casserole. Often called cheesy potatoes or hashbrown casserole, it’s a staple in Mormon culture, especially in Utah. The name might sound somber, but every bite is pure comfort.

The Origin of the Name

This dish earned its unique name from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. It was traditionally served at funeral luncheons to nourish grieving families. The creamy, hearty nature made it a symbol of care during tough times.

Today, it’s a celebration of community. Whether at potlucks or holidays, it brings people together with its rich flavors and crispy topping.

Why This Dish Is a Crowd-Pleaser

We love how versatile it is! Serve it as a side dish at dinner or a brunch casserole. The contrast between the creamy interior and crunchy crust is irresistible.

• Regional favorite: Hugely popular in Midwestern and Mountain states.
• Texture magic: Soft, cheesy center meets golden, crispy top.
• Modern twist: Now a hit at BBQs and family reunions too.

How to Make Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns

Ready to create a casserole that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing? This recipe is a breeze—just mix, layer, and bake. The result? A golden, bubbly dish that’s crispy on top and creamy inside. Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these pantry staples for the perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• 32 oz frozen hash browns (shredded or cubed; thaw overnight for even cooking)
• 2 cans cream of chicken soup (or homemade for extra richness)
• 2 cups sour cream (adds tangy creaminess)
• 1½ cups cheddar cheese (shred it fresh for meltier results)
• ½ cup + 2 tbsp melted butter (for the sauce and crispy topping)
• Cornflakes (the secret to that irresistible crunch!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Base: In a large bowl, mix hash browns, soup, sour cream, cheese, and ½ cup melted butter. The soup acts as a binder, keeping everything lusciously creamy.

2. Layer Like a Pro: Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish. For extra texture, try a cast-iron skillet or ceramic dish.

3. Top It Off: Crush cornflakes and toss with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole—this creates that golden crown we love!

Baking Time and Temperature

Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 30 minutes if using shredded potatoes, or 55–60 minutes for cubed. Watch for bubbly edges and a toasty topping—that’s your cue it’s done!

Pro tip: Let it rest 5 minutes before serving. The flavors meld beautifully, and you’ll avoid a lava-hot bite!

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Casserole

A great casserole is like a blank canvas—ready for your personal touch! Whether you’re meal-prepping or catering to dietary needs, these tweaks ensure your dish shines every time.

Freezing and Make-Ahead Options

Short on time? Assemble the creamy base (skip the topping) and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

For next-day ease, refrigerate the unbaked dish (without cornflakes) for 24 hours. Add the topping just before it hits the oven—crisp perfection guaranteed!

Substitutions and Customizations

Dietary swaps? Easy! Use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version or gluten-free soup and cornflakes for allergies. Dairy-free? Try vegan sour cream and nutritional yeast.

• Crunchy toppings: Swap cornflakes for potato chips, fried onions, or panko.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or smoked paprika for a kick.
• Breakfast twist: Fold in diced ham and green onions.

Leftovers? Store covered in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for that just-baked crispness!

Conclusion

There’s a reason thiscomfort foodhas stood the test of time. It’s more than aside dish—it’s a taste of togetherness, perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family nights.

Make it your own! Add bacon bits, swap cheeses, or try a crunchy topping like panko. Thisrecipeadapts to your taste and dietary needs effortlessly.

Pro tip: Whip up a double batch and freeze one for later. Future you will thank you on that busy weeknight!

Share your twist on thiscrowd-pleaserwith us—tag #ComfortFoodMagic. Hungry for more nostalgic recipes? Explore our collection of heartwarming dishes!

Homemade Funeral Potatoes with Hashbrowns

Recipe by MiraCourse: Dinner

Servings

10–12

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns (thawed)
  2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  1 cup sour cream
  ½ cup melted butter
  ½ small onion, finely chopped (optional)
  ½ tsp garlic powder
  Salt & pepper to taste
  Topping:
  2 cups cornflakes, crushed
  ¼ cup melted butter

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  
• In a large bowl, mix hashbrowns, cheddar, soup, sour cream, ½ cup melted butter, onion, garlic powder, salt & pepper.
  
• Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  
• In a small bowl, toss crushed cornflakes with ¼ cup melted butter.
  
• Sprinkle topping over the hashbrown mixture.
  
• Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until hot and golden.
  
• Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!