Funeral Potatoes

Ever found yourself craving a dish that’s both incredibly comforting and surprisingly simple to make, especially when feeding a crowd? If so, you’re likely searching for “Funeral Potatoes,” the ultimate savory casserole that has earned its name for being a go-to at gatherings both somber and celebratory. These aren’t just any tater tot casserole; Funeral Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy comfort food classic perfect for any occasion. Made with tender hash browns, a rich sour cream and cheese sauce, and a crispy buttery topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, holidays, or even a simple family dinner. This recipe aims to guide you through creating this beloved dish with minimal fuss and maximum flavor, ensuring your Funeral Potatoes are always a hit.

What Are Funeral Potatoes?

Funeral Potatoes, also affectionately known as “Party Potatoes” or “Hurry-Up Potatoes,” are a specific type of potato-based casserole. Their name originates from their frequent appearance at post-funeral luncheons or wakes, where they offer a warm, comforting, and easy-to-serve meal for grieving families and their guests. However, their deliciousness transcends solemn occasions. This dish has become a staple at church potlucks, holiday gatherings, family reunions, and casual get-togethers because it’s incredibly forgiving, scales easily, and appeals to almost everyone. The magic lies in its simple yet satisfying combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes topped with a crunchy, buttery crust, making it undeniably addictive.

Ingredients

The beauty of Funeral Potatoes lies in their straightforward ingredient list, many of which are pantry staples. However, the quality and type of each ingredient can elevate your casserole from good to extraordinary. For that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy, here’s what you’ll need:

• Hash Browns: 2 (30-ounce) packages frozen shredded hash browns, thawed. Opt for those with a finer shred for a creamier texture, or a coarser shred if you prefer more distinct potato pieces. Ensure they are fully thawed but not watery.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 2 cans (10.5 ounces each). This is the backbone of the creamy sauce. You can substitute with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a milder flavor, or use homemade condensed cream of mushroom soup for a gourmet touch.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup full-fat sour cream. This adds a tangy richness that cuts through the creaminess. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided. A sharp cheddar provides a robust cheesy flavor. You can also use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or even a touch of Gruyère for a more sophisticated taste.
• Onion: 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion. This adds a subtle sweetness and depth. If raw onion is too strong, you can sauté it lightly before adding to the mix, or omit it entirely if preferred.
• Butter: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted. This is for the topping, creating that irresistible golden crunch.
• Cracker Crumbs: 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs. This is crucial for the topping’s crispiness.
• Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also boost flavor.

Timing

This recipe is designed for efficiency, making it perfect for busy cooks. The prep is minimal, mostly involving mixing. The cooking time falls right in line with most casserole recipes, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time or bake it while you get other things done.

The Secret to Perfect Funeral Potatoes

While the ingredients are simple, a few key techniques ensure your Funeral Potatoes achieve that perfect harmony of creamy interior and crunchy topping. The secret isn’t just in the ingredients, but in how they come together. Making sure the hash browns are thawed without being waterlogged, creating a rich and well-seasoned sauce, and achieving that perfectly golden, crisp topping are all vital.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and quickly once assembled. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Have your thawed hash browns ready in a large mixing bowl. If your hash browns are still quite frozen, take the time to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave them for a minute or two, just enough to make them pliable. Drain any excess moisture that may have accumulated.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the two cans of cream of mushroom soup. Add the sour cream, and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for the topping). Stir in the finely chopped onion, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. A good pinch of garlic powder can also be a welcome addition here. Mix until everything is well combined and becomes a smooth, luscious sauce.

Step 3: Combine and Mix

Pour the creamy cheese mixture over the thawed hash browns in the large bowl. Gently fold everything together until the hash browns are thoroughly coated with the sauce. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break down the potato strands too much. You want them coated, not mashed. Ensure even distribution of the sauce for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Top It Off

Transfer the hash brown and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Now, for the crown jewel: the topping. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed buttery crackers or panko breadcrumbs. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to this mixture. Stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened with butter and the cheese is distributed.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Evenly sprinkle the buttery, cheesy cracker topping over the hash brown mixture in the baking dish. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving (varies based on exact ingredients and portion size).
• Fat: High in saturated fat due to cheese and butter.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from hash browns.
• Protein: From cheese and cream soups.
• Sodium: Can be high due to canned soups and cheese.

Note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown. For precise figures, it’s recommended to use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.

Healthier Alternatives

While Funeral Potatoes are a comfort food classic, they can be quite rich. Here are a few ways to make a lighter, yet still delicious, version:

• Lower-Fat Dairy: Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt, and opt for reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup.
• Leaner Protein: Mix in cooked, shredded chicken breast or turkey for added protein and to make it a more complete meal.
• Veggies: Add steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole for extra nutrients and fiber.
• Whole Grains: Use whole wheat crackers for the topping, or a blend of whole wheat and regular.
• Reduced Sodium: Look for low-sodium versions of cream soups and use less salt in your seasoning. Consider making your own condensed soup base to control sodium.

Serving Suggestions

Funeral Potatoes are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes. They are an excellent side for:

• Roasted meats like chicken, turkey, ham, or pork loin.
• Grilled or baked fish.
• Hearty stews or chili.
• Barbecue favorites.
• They can even stand alone as a vegetarian main dish, especially if you’ve added extra vegetables.

For a complete meal, serve with a fresh green salad and some steamed vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Watery Potatoes: Not thawing and draining the hash browns properly is a common pitfall that leads to a mushy casserole.
• Bland Flavor: Under-seasoning the sauce can result in a dish that lacks depth. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper.
• Soggy Topping: Not using enough butter or incorrect topping ingredients can lead to a topping that doesn’t crisp up. Ensure the crumbs are well-coated in butter.
• Over-Baking: While you want the casserole hot and bubbly, over-baking can dry out the potatoes and make the dish tough.
• Skipping the Foil: Covering the casserole loosely with foil initially helps it cook through evenly without the topping burning too quickly.

Storing Tips

Leftover Funeral Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, spread the potatoes in a baking dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave individual servings. The topping may not be as crispy after refrigeration, but it will still be delicious. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked (and cooled) casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions