Introduction to Funeral Potatoes
What are Funeral Potatoes and Their Origin?
If you haven't heard of funeral potatoes, you’re in for a delightful treat! This comforting dish is a favorite in many American households, especially in the Intermountain West. Funeral potatoes typically consist of a cheesy hash brown casserole, often served as a side dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and yes, even at funerals, where they offer a cozy and warm comfort during times of grief.
The roots of funeral potatoes can be traced back to traditional potato casserole recipes that were made to feed many people at a reasonable cost. It's believed that the dish became popular in the 1950s to ease the burden of meal preparation during difficult times. Family and friends would come together, sharing food to provide support, and this hearty casserole became a staple not just at funerals, but at family reunions and holiday feasts.
What makes these potatoes truly special is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, like Turkey Bacon or additional cheeses. With this recipe, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious side but also dive into a slice of culinary history.
For a deeper exploration of the dish's significance and variations, check out this interesting piece from Serious Eats, which delves into comfort food across American culture.
Ingredients for Funeral Potatoes
When preparing classic funeral potatoes, you'll need a perfect blend of essential ingredients to create a creamy, cheesy base. Here's what you should gather:
Essential Ingredients for the Base
- 30 ounces frozen hash browns (diced or shredded, make sure they're thawed)
- 2 cups sour cream (adds that luscious creaminess)
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (or make your own for a personal touch)
- 10 tablespoons butter (6 melted for the base and 4 for topping)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (the star of the show!)
Toppings and Optional Ingredients
To elevate your funeral potatoes, consider these toppings and optional ingredients:
- 2 cups corn flakes cereal (for that perfect crunch)
- Turkey bacon or crispy onions can be sprinkled on top for added flavor.
- For a twist, try adding green chiles or a dollop of hot sauce to spice things up.
Feel free to check out more inspiration at reputable cooking sites like AllRecipes or Food Network as you perfect your dish. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, these funeral potatoes are sure to impress!
Preparing Funeral Potatoes
Creating funeral potatoes is a delightful way to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This cheesy hash brown casserole is straightforward and perfect for gatherings, making it a go-to recipe for many. Let’s walk through the steps together!
Step 1: Thaw the Hash Browns
Before you can create this creamy dream, you’ll need to ensure your hash browns are thawed. You can do this conveniently by either leaving them in your fridge overnight or spreading them on a baking sheet and warming them in the oven at a low temperature (about 200°F) for around 20 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften up perfectly, setting the foundation for your delicious casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
Next up is the creamy filling, which gives funeral potatoes their rich flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of sour cream, a 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried minced onion. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed. This combination creates a luscious base that pairs beautifully with the daintiness of the potatoes.
Step 3: Combine the Potatoes and Cheese
Now, it’s time to bring those thawed hash browns into the mix! Add the potatoes to your creamy filling, along with 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold the mixture together until every potato piece is coated in that velvety goodness. Spoon the combined mixture into a greased 9x13 metal baking dish, spreading it into a flat, even layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Cornflake Topping
A delightful crunch is essential for a perfect casserole, and that’s where the cornflake topping comes in! Take 2 cups of corn flakes cereal and place them in a large ziplock bag. Crush them gently with your hands or a rolling pin—just enough to break them down but not turn them into powder. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes and mix until they're well combined. Now, sprinkle this topping generously over the potato mixture. It’s the finishing touch that promises a satisfying crunch in every bite!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (you can do this while preparing your dish). Once everything is ready, pop your casserole into the oven and let it bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is a lovely golden brown and bubbly.
These funeral potatoes are perfect alongside chicken ham, roasted turkey, or even served on their own. Enjoy preparing this family favorite!
For more ideas on great side dishes, check out this resource on casserole recipes.
Variations on Funeral Potatoes
Cheesy Broccoli Funeral Potatoes
If you're a fan of funeral potatoes, why not elevate the classic dish by adding some green goodness? Cheesy Broccoli Funeral Potatoes bring a lovely color and flavor combination that complements the cheese and creamy base. Simply toss in a couple of cups of steamed broccoli florets before baking. The result is a deliciously comforting dish that adds a nutritious twist. You can even check out this broccoli nutrition guide to learn more about its health benefits.
Spicy Funeral Potatoes with Jalapeños
For those who crave a little heat, try Spicy Funeral Potatoes with jalapeños. Adding sliced or diced jalapeños not only spices things up but also introduces a delightful contrast to the creamy texture. You can adjust the heat level to your taste by choosing fresh, pickled, or even roasted jalapeños. Serve these zesty taters at your next gathering and brace yourself for rave reviews! If you’re looking for more creative ideas, explore this article on spicing up comfort food.
With these variations, you can enjoy funeral potatoes in unique and delicious ways.
Cooking tips and notes for Funeral Potatoes
Choosing the right cheese
When it comes to funeral potatoes, cheese is a star player! Sharp cheddar cheese adds a robust flavor, while mild cheddar keeps things creamy and smooth. You could even consider blending in some pepper jack for a little kick! Just remember to shred the cheese yourself; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can alter the texture of your casserole.
Adjusting seasoning to taste
Feel free to customize the seasoning in your funeral potatoes to match your taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños can elevate the dish. Alternatively, fresh herbs like chives or parsley give a lovely freshness. Taste as you go—it's the best way to ensure your dish turns out just right. And if you want to ensure consistency, check out this expert guide on seasoning and flavor balancing from Bon Appétit.
Serving Suggestions for Funeral Potatoes
Pairing with Chicken Ham
Funeral potatoes make a delightful companion to chicken ham. The creaminess of the cheesy hash brown casserole complements the savory flavors of the meat beautifully. Whether you bake the chicken ham with herbs or glaze it with something sweet like honey or maple syrup, the two will create a harmonious dish that guests will rave about.
Complementary Sides and Salads
Looking to elevate your meal? Consider pairing funeral potatoes with:
- Green beans: Their crisp texture balances the creaminess.
- Caesar salad: A classic choice that adds a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted vegetables: Colorful and nutritious, they enhance the plate visually and nutritionally.
Served together, these dishes create a well-rounded meal perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. Trust us, this combination will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Time Breakdown for Funeral Potatoes
Preparation Time
Getting started on your funeral potatoes is a breeze! You’ll need just 10 minutes to prep everything. This includes thawing your hash browns and mixing the creamy goodness that adds flavor to the dish.
Baking Time
Once prepped, pop your casserole in the oven, and let it bake for 40 to 50 minutes at 350°F. This is when the magic happens—the cheese melts and the corn flakes turn golden brown, creating that irresistible crispy topping.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at 1 hour for these delicious funeral potatoes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight side or a show-stopping potluck dish!
Curious about how to make these funeral potatoes shine? Check out this recipe from Food Network for more tips and variations!
Whether you’re serving them with chicken ham or a tasty beef dish, this side will definitely be a crowd-pleaser!
Nutritional Facts for Funeral Potatoes
When preparing funeral potatoes, it’s good to know what you’re serving up. Here’s a quick dive into their nutritional profile:
Calories
Each serving of these comforting potatoes contains approximately 336 calories, making them a satisfying addition to any meal.
Fat Content
With 26 grams of fat, including 16 grams of saturated fat, these potatoes deliver on creaminess. Balance with lighter sides for a well-rounded meal!
Sodium
Watch out for sodium levels—these cheesy potatoes pack 666 mg of sodium per serving, which is something to consider, especially for those on a low-sodium diet.
Enjoy this hearty dish, and remember, moderation is key—pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to complement your meal! For more information on healthy eating habits, you may wish to check out Harvard Health.
FAQs about Funeral Potatoes
Can I make Funeral Potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare funeral potatoes a day in advance. Just assemble the dish (minus the cornflake topping), cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply add the topping and pop it in the oven. This makes it perfect for gatherings or busy days!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any funeral potatoes left over, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should keep well for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Make sure you don’t add the cornflake topping before freezing. Instead, just thaw, add the topping, and bake when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What can I serve them with?
These flavorful funeral potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes! Consider serving them alongside:
- Chicken ham
- Oven-roasted turkey
- Grilled flank steak
For more ideas on side dishes, check out Food Network’s guide. You'll find plenty of inspiration for your next meal!
Conclusion on Funeral Potatoes
In conclusion, Funeral Potatoes are a comfort food classic that can turn any meal into a memorable occasion. Their creamy texture and cheesy flavor perfectly complement dishes like Chicken Ham or turkey. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, this recipe is sure to please. For variations and more recipes, check out Love and Lemons for seasonal inspiration or Serious Eats for expert cooking tips!
Funeral Potatoes
Equipment
- 9x13 metal baking dish
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 30 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups sour cream
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup or homemade
- 10 Tablespoons butter, melted divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 2 cups corn flakes cereal
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Allow potatoes to thaw in your fridge overnight, or spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 200 degrees for about 20 minutes, until thawed.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 6 Tablespoons of melted butter, salt, pepper and dried onion in a bowl. Mix well.
- Add potatoes and shredded cheese and stir to combine. Spoon mixture into a single layer in a 9x13'' pan.
- Add cornflakes to a large ziplock bag and crush gently with your hands or a rolling pin.
- Add remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter to the crushed cornflakes and combine well. Sprinkle mixture over potatoes.
- Bake uncovered at 350 F for 40-50 minutes.
- Serve these with baked ham, oven roasted turkey, or flank steak.
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