Funeral Potatoes Cornflake Cheddar

Funeral potatoes are a beloved comfort food staple across American gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations. This creamy, cheesy casserole combines tender shredded hash browns with a rich, savory sauce and is crowned with an irresistibly crunchy cornflake and cheddar topping. Despite its somber name, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table, making it perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday spreads, or whenever you need a crowd-pleasing side that delivers on both flavor and nostalgia.

Save

The magic of funeral potatoes lies in the textural contrast between the soft, velvety potato base and the crunchy, buttery cornflake topping. Garlic powder, onion powder, and sharp cheddar cheese infuse every bite with savory richness, while the sour cream adds a subtle tang that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Whether you're serving it alongside roast chicken, holiday ham, or as the star of a potluck buffet, this casserole is guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (substitute with cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 3 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (4 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Potato Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and 2 cups grated cheddar cheese. Stir until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, toss crushed cornflakes with 1/4 cup melted butter until well coated. Stir in 1 cup grated cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the cornflake-cheddar mixture evenly over the potatoes.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake, uncovered, for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Thaw the frozen hash browns completely before mixing to ensure even distribution of the sauce and prevent excess moisture. If you're short on time, you can leave the bag in the refrigerator overnight. For the crispiest topping, make sure the cornflakes are only lightly crushed—larger pieces create better texture. Melted butter should be evenly distributed throughout the cornflake mixture to achieve that golden, crunchy finish. Use a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole cooks evenly and the topping browns uniformly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom soup in place of cream of chicken. Add a kick by stirring in diced jalapeños or green chiles to the potato mixture. Chopped green onions can be folded in for added freshness and color. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat while keeping the dish creamy. For a gluten-free option, check that your canned soup and cornflakes are certified gluten-free, and consider using crushed gluten-free crackers or potato chips as an alternative topping.

Serviervorschläge

Funeral potatoes pair beautifully with roasted or grilled meats such as ham, roast chicken, pork chops, or beef brisket. They're a natural fit for holiday spreads alongside green beans, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls. This casserole also shines at potlucks, church gatherings, and family reunions where comfort food is always welcome. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, and watch it become the dish everyone asks for the recipe.

Save

Whether you're honoring tradition or discovering this dish for the first time, funeral potatoes offer the kind of comforting, cheesy goodness that brings people together. With its creamy interior, crispy topping, and easy preparation, this casserole proves that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones we return to again and again. Serve it at your next gathering and watch it become a new family favorite.

Recipe Q&A Section

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed, provide the ideal texture for combining with creamy ingredients and baking evenly.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substituting cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup makes it suitable for vegetarians without sacrificing flavor.

→ How do I get a crisp cornflake crust?

Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and cheddar cheese, then sprinkle evenly on top before baking to create a golden crispy layer.

→ Is it possible to add extra flavors?

Yes, chopped green onions or diced jalapeños can be added for additional flavor and a slight kick.

→ What is the recommended baking temperature and time?

Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.