Masters of kitchen
Funeral Potatoes may sound like a somber name, but this dish is anything but sad. It’s the ultimate comfort food classic—creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, buttery crunch that brings people together. Whether served at family gatherings, holidays, or yes, even funerals, this dish offers warmth in every bite.
The name “Funeral Potatoes Recipe” comes from its origins in Utah’s Mormon/LDS communities, where it became a staple at potluck meals held after funerals. These communal meals are a way to support grieving families, and this potato casserole was always front and center—easy to make in large quantities, satisfyingly filling, and universally loved.
Today, this cheesy potato casserole has spread far beyond Utah kitchens. It’s now a beloved dish at Easter brunches, Thanksgiving spreads, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. The combination of hash browns, sour cream, cheese, and crispy topping makes it irresistibly comforting—and surprisingly easy to pull together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that checks all the boxes—easy, affordable, crowd-pleasing, and delicious—this Funeral Potatoes Recipe is it.
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Simple ingredients: Everything can be found at your local grocery store, and most are pantry staples.
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Big flavor payoff: Creamy, cheesy, and buttery with a crisp topping that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
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Feeds a crowd: This casserole serves 8–10 generous portions, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
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Kid-approved: Even picky eaters dig in without hesitation.
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Freezer-friendly: Make it ahead and freeze it for busy weeknights or big events.
Whether it’s served alongside baked ham at Easter or paired with a roast chicken on Sunday, this casserole adds a nostalgic, hearty touch to any table.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
This cheesy hash brown casserole may be easy to throw together, but every ingredient plays a key role:
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Frozen hash browns or shredded potatoes: These form the hearty base. You can use cubed or shredded hash browns—just make sure they’re thawed.
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Sour cream & cream of chicken soup: These bring tangy richness and creaminess. They hold everything together in that signature velvety texture.
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Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar to balance the richness with bold flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
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Onion & garlic (fresh or powdered): These add depth and savory warmth to the base.
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Cornflakes or Ritz crackers: Crushed and mixed with melted butter, they deliver the irresistible golden crunch that makes funeral potatoes unforgettable.
Pro tip: Sharp cheddar cheese gives the best flavor punch without being greasy. It melts beautifully and balances the creamy base.
Each element is flexible, allowing you to put your own twist on the dish—but together, they create a soul-satisfying casserole that’s way more than the sum of its parts.
Optional Add-Ins and Substitutions
This funeral potatoes recipe is super versatile. Here’s how you can customize it:
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Vegetarian? Swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a meat-free version that’s just as tasty.
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Healthier swaps: Use Greek yogurt or light sour cream instead of full-fat sour cream. You can even try cottage cheese blended smooth for a protein boost.
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Add-ins for extra flavor: Stir in crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or diced ham to turn it into a full meal.
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Gluten-free? Choose a gluten-free cream soup or make a roux-based version from scratch. Swap the cornflake topping for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips.
Pro tip: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little kick without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Funeral Potatoes Recipe (Step-by-Step)
This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps. You can make it the day of, or prep it in advance to bake later.
Step 1: Prep your ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thaw your frozen hash browns (if using) and melt the butter for the topping.
Step 2: Mix the creamy base
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Fold in the hash browns
Gently mix in the thawed hash browns until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing—you want a fluffy, layered texture, not mashed potatoes.
Step 4: Transfer to casserole dish
Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Step 5: Add your topping
In a small bowl, toss crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake until golden and bubbly
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Pro tip: If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
This classic casserole is now ready to serve—cheesy, crispy, and deeply satisfying.
Funeral Potatoes Without Cream of Chicken Soup
Don’t want to use canned soup? No problem—here’s a quick homemade alternative:
Homemade Cream of Chicken Substitute:
In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Slowly add 1 cup of chicken broth and ½ cup of milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
This version adds a from-scratch richness and can be made in under 10 minutes. It also works great for those who want to cut back on processed ingredients.
Slow Cooker Funeral Potatoes Recipe Instructions
Want to free up oven space or make this casserole portable for potlucks? Use your slow cooker!
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Mix all the ingredients as usual (except the topping).
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Grease your slow cooker insert and spread the mixture inside.
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Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
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Just before serving, sprinkle the buttered topping over and let sit uncovered for 10–15 minutes.
Pro tip: You can also toast the topping separately in a skillet or oven and sprinkle it on fresh for extra crunch!
Topping Options
The topping is what gives Funeral Potatoes their signature crunchy, golden finish. You’ve got a few delicious options depending on your style:
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Cornflakes: The classic choice. Lightly crushed cornflakes tossed in melted butter add that nostalgic, crispy bite.
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Ritz crackers: Crushed Ritz bring a buttery, savory richness that melts in your mouth.
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Panko + Parmesan: For a more gourmet twist, try panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan and butter for a salty, crisp finish.
Pro tip: Toast your topping slightly in a skillet first for added crunch and color.
What to Serve with Funeral Potatoes
This cheesy potato casserole is rich and satisfying, so pairing it with the right mains and sides makes a perfectly balanced plate.
Perfect main dishes:
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Roast chicken or turkey
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Glazed baked ham (a holiday favorite!)
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Grilled pork chops or even BBQ ribs
Go lighter with veggie sides:
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Steamed or roasted green beans
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Glazed carrots for a sweet contrast
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A crisp mixed greens salad with vinaigrette to cut the richness
Whether it’s served at Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual weeknight dinner, Funeral Potatoes easily round out any meal with comforting, cheesy goodness.
Make Ahead and Freezer Instructions
Planning ahead? This casserole is a dream when it comes to make-ahead convenience.
Make ahead (1–2 days):
Assemble the full dish (except for the topping) and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store in the fridge. When ready to bake, add the topping and cook as directed.
Freezing instructions:
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Assemble, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil
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Label and freeze up to 3 months
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Bake directly from frozen at 350°F for 60–70 minutes, adding topping halfway through
Reheat tip:
For best texture, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave. If needed, refresh with a sprinkle of cheese or extra topping.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you—they reheat beautifully!
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
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Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 20 minutes or microwave in short bursts
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Cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep moisture in
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For crispy topping, use the oven and leave uncovered for the last few minutes
Avoid sogginess: Never cover the casserole completely during reheating—you want that top layer to stay crisp and golden.
Variations Across Regions and Families
Funeral Potatoes are a classic, but every family has their own spin. Here are a few regional favorites:
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Southern-style: Add diced jalapeños or crumbled bacon for bold, smoky flavor
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Midwest twist: Stir in a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy base
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Church potluck edition: More soup, more cheese, or swap hash browns for tater tots to feed a crowd with ease
This casserole invites creativity—don’t be afraid to play with ingredients and make it your own family tradition.
FAQs About Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Why are they called Funeral Potatoes?
They got the name because they’re commonly served at post-funeral luncheons, especially in Utah and LDS communities. They’re easy to make in big batches and offer comforting warmth during hard times.
What’s the difference between Funeral Potatoes and hash brown casserole?
They’re nearly the same—“Funeral Potatoes” is just the nostalgic name. Both use hash browns, sour cream, soup, and cheese. Some versions differ slightly in toppings or seasoning.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes! Just peel and shred about 6–7 medium potatoes. Soak them in cold water, drain, and pat dry before mixing in.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Try a homemade version (see above), or swap in cream of mushroom or cream of celery for vegetarian options.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Use a plant-based soup alternative and skip any meat add-ins. It’s still rich and satisfying.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! Use a large roasting pan and add 10–15 minutes to the bake time.
Are Funeral Potatoes good for meal prep or freezing?
Yes—this dish is freezer- and fridge-friendly, making it ideal for holidays, events, or batch cooking.
Funeral Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13-inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 32 oz bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cornflakes or Ritz crackers crushed
- ¼ cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together soup, sour cream, cheese, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in thawed hash browns until evenly coated.
- Spread mixture into prepared casserole dish.
- Mix crushed cornflakes or crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make ahead: Assemble (without topping), refrigerate up to 2 days. Add topping and bake when ready.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap tightly before baking and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Topping swap: Use panko + parmesan or potato chips for a twist.
- Soup alternative: Make homemade roux with butter, flour, broth, and milk if avoiding canned soup.
Nutrition
Final Thoughts and Pro Tips
Funeral Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a symbol of comfort, community, and good eating. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday, potluck, or a cozy dinner at home, this casserole delivers every time.
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Experiment with toppings like bacon, jalapeños, or parmesan
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Prep ahead to save time on busy days
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Don’t forget to let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—it sets better and stays intact when scooped
Warm, rich, and always welcomed at the table—this is the kind of dish that becomes a forever family favorite.
