Ah, funeral potatoes. The name might not be the most glamorous, but don’t let it fool you! This casserole is a potluck and family gathering staple for a reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with potatoey goodness – the ultimate comfort food. Let me tell you a story.  Years ago, I was at a potluck, feeling a little under the weather. My grandma, bless her soul, knew just what I needed. She piled a heaping helping of funeral potatoes on my plate, and with every creamy bite, I felt a wave of warmth and comfort wash over me. It wasn’t just the deliciousness but the love and care that went into that dish.

Since then, funeral potatoes have held a special place in my heart.  Today, I will share my grandma’s recipe with you, along with a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way.

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner cooks or those short on time.  But don’t be fooled by its simplicity – the combination of creamy sauce, fluffy potatoes, and a crunchy cornflake topping creates an unforgettable flavor and texture experience.

Ingredients for Easy Funeral Potatoes

• 3/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2 pounds frozen hash browns, defrosted (shredded or diced, your preference!)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 cups crushed cornflakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives

Equipment

• Large pot
• Spoon
• Spatula
• 9×13 inch baking dish

Directions for Easy Funeral Potatoes

• Sauté the onion: Melt the butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• To make the roux, Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux.
• Whisk in the liquids: Slowly whisk the milk and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.
• Incorporate the potatoes: Add the defrosted hash browns to the pot and stir to combine—season generously with salt and pepper.
• Cheese time! Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and combined with the potato mixture.
• Assemble and bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the cheesy potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• The magical topping: Combine the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the potato casserole.
• Bake to golden perfection: Bake the funeral potatoes for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving and Sides

This recipe yields a generous casserole, perfect for feeding a crowd. It can be served as a main course or a side dish. Pair it with classic potluck favorites like ham, roast chicken, or green beans.

Conclusion

Funeral potatoes are a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This recipe is a winner for any occasion with its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. So, next time you need a potluck dish or a heartwarming weeknight meal, try these funeral potatoes. I guarantee they’ll become a new favorite!

FAQ

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Shred or dice 2 pounds of russet potatoes and follow the recipe as instructed. Depending on the size of your potato pieces, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it according to the instructions.

How do I know when the funeral potatoes are done?

The casserole is finished when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the center is heated through. You can insert a toothpick into the center, which should come out clean.

I hope this recipe brings you comfort and joy, just like it does for me. Now get out there and bake a